Train manufacturer Hitachi carried out a major test between Doncaster and Edinburgh Waverley station for the new Azuma intercity train. “This is a key milestone in the testing and introduction of the new fleet of state-of-the-art Intercity trains on the East Coast Main Line which will benefit passengers in both Scotland and England,” Rail Minister Paul Maynard said.
A fleet of 65 new Azuma intercity trains will start to be introduced on iconic Scottish routes from 2018. The trains use Hitachi’s Japanese bullet train technology; ensuring passengers have smoother and more reliable journeys. The Azuma is set to be one of the most advanced passenger trains on the UK rail network, able to accelerate faster than existing trains and providing more comfort and space inside. Virgin Trains are planning to cut journey times between Edinburgh and London by 22 minutes using Azuma, connecting capital cities in just 4 hours. Hitachi is building the new fleet at its purpose built facility in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.
The Government’s investment in the East Coast main line has funded the trains as well as new depots to maintain them. Major infrastructure upgrades are also taking place to ensure the route is ready for modern trains
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