Alstom has been awarded a £60 million (€70 million) contract to refurbish the Voyager train fleet operated by CrossCountry. The project aims to improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency on these long-distance routes, marking a significant upgrade to one of the UK’s key rail networks.
The refurbishment will involve 312 train cars, including 136 Voyager (Class 220) and 176 Super Voyager (Class 221) vehicles. Among these, 252 cars are part of CrossCountry’s existing fleet, with 60 additional carriages being introduced from trains previously operated by Avanti West Coast. The comprehensive upgrade includes new interiors, technology enhancements, and a fresh exterior livery, offering passengers a more modern and comfortable experience.
Sustainability at the Core of the Refurbishment
Sustainability plays a central role in Alstom’s refurbishment plans. The new seats being installed are 95% recyclable, and the materials used will help reduce fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions. Alstom’s commitment to environmental responsibility aligns with the broader industry goal of making rail travel more sustainable and energy efficient. This focus on greener solutions is especially important as the UK continues to work towards its net-zero targets.
Enhancing Passenger Experience and Efficiency
The refurbishment will not only improve the aesthetics of the trains but also enhance functionality. Alstom plans to install a new passenger counting system, which will provide valuable data on passenger flow and optimize train operations. Additionally, the improved lighting, upgraded seating, and modernized interiors are designed to provide a better travel experience for passengers, whether they are commuting or traveling long distances.
Design work for the project is set to begin immediately, with physical refurbishment starting at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane facility in 2025. The refurbishment work is expected to continue until 2027, employing around 100 staff directly and supporting a broader network across the UK’s rail supply chain.
A Strategic Move for CrossCountry and Alstom
Peter Broadley, Managing Director of Services UK and Ireland at Alstom emphasized the importance of the Voyager fleet: “For more than 20 years, CrossCountry’s Voyagers have proudly served towns and cities across Great Britain – traveling millions of miles in the process. We now look forward to giving these iconic Alstom-built trains some well-deserved TLC with a comprehensive overhaul that will include new seats, on-board technology enhancements, and an exterior repaint.”
The Voyager and Super Voyager trains are a critical part of the UK’s rail infrastructure, operating on routes that connect major cities across England, Scotland, and Wales. These trains have clocked over 427 million miles (about 687189888 km) since they entered service, highlighting their importance in the country’s transportation network.
This refurbishment project builds on the long-standing relationship between Alstom and CrossCountry. It follows Alstom’s eight-year extension of its Train Services Agreement with CrossCountry, valued at £825 million (€950 million), which ensures continued maintenance and service of the Voyager fleet until 2031.
VURDHAAN’s Role in Supporting Rail Sustainability
As the rail industry pushes towards greener and more efficient solutions, VURDHAAN remains at the forefront of guiding companies through sustainable transitions. We specialize in helping rail operators implement eco-friendly technologies, optimize energy use, and ensure compliance with evolving environmental standards. Our expertise aligns perfectly with projects like Alstom’s refurbishment of CrossCountry’s Voyager trains, where sustainability, efficiency, and passenger experience come together.
At VURDHAAN, we provide tailored strategies to help rail companies integrate sustainable practices, whether through upgrading existing fleets, adopting new technologies, or enhancing operational efficiency. Our holistic approach ensures that rail operators can meet their environmental goals while delivering high-quality services to passengers
The Future of Rail: A Greener and More Comfortable Journey
The refurbishment of CrossCountry’s Voyager fleet is a significant step towards modernizing the UK’s rail network while maintaining a focus on sustainability. As these upgrades are implemented, passengers can expect a more comfortable, efficient, and eco-friendly travel experience.
With projects like this paving the way, the future of rail in the UK looks set to prioritize both operational excellence and environmental responsibility. At VURDHAAN, we are excited to continue supporting the rail sector as it transitions to a more sustainable future.