ScotRail HSTs enter traffic on October 15

The first refurbished ScotRail (SR) High Speed Train (HST) enters traffic on October 15.

Branded Inter7City as they will serve Scotland’s seven cities, the refurbished HST will run initially between Aberdeen and Edinburgh. More routes will follow as more sets arrive from refurbishment. SR aims to have two by the December timetable.

The HSTs offer more seats than the diesel multiple units they are replacing, as well as increase luggage space, at-seat power sockets, more toilets and on-board hospitality.

ScotRail Alliance Managing Director Alex Hynes said: “Our Inter7City service will provide more seats, better services, and more comfortable journeys for our customers.

“The investment we are making in these iconic trains is a clear sign of the ScotRail Alliance’s commitment to building a bigger and better railway for the whole of Scotland.”

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure, and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “The entry into service of the first fully upgraded high speed train (HST) is to be welcomed and I look forward to seeing more follow in the months ahead.

“Passengers have looked forward to the arrival of the fully refurbished HST fleet which will bring significant improvements for travellers on our inter-city routes between Scotland’s seven main cities.

“ScotRail and Wabtec, its supplier, have given assurances they remain focused on ensuring the full fleet is in service as quickly and efficiently as possible, meaning even more passengers will soon benefit from faster trains which have the latest standard of comfort, accessibility and catering provision.”

SR is introducing nine four-car and 17 five-car HSTs, with all in traffic by December next year.

The operator is likely to use ‘classic’ unrefurbished sets to meet its timetable commitments (RAIL 863).

• For the FULL story, read RAIL 864, published on October 24, and available digitally on Android, iPad and Kindle.