Alstom Revitalizes and Sustains the Lumo Class 222 Train Fleet

According to a recent declaration, Alstom has secured contracts aimed at upgrading and maintaining five Class 222 inter-city diesel multiple units. these trains will be leased by FirstGroup from Eversholt Rail for thier Lumo services connecting Stirling and London.

The Class 222 units, originally constructed by Bombardier Transportation (now part of Alstom), were previously in service with East Midlands Railway under the Meridian brand. They are set to begin operations with Lumo next year, coinciding with the launch of the new route from Stirling to London Euston, alongside existing services between Edinburgh and London that utilize Hitachi trains.

eversholt Rail has initiated a £10 million modernization project that will see Alstom’s facility in Widnes revamp these five six-car sets. This overhaul includes a complete exterior repaint featuring Lumo’s branding, upgraded seating designed for comfort, enhanced CCTV systems, and an Intelligent engine Start-Stop feature that automatically manages engine operation when the train is stationary. Additionally, passengers can expect improved Wi-Fi connectivity through Alstom’s Nomad Digital division.

“Alstom’s continued role as the original equipment manufacturer for the class 222 fleet reinforces its reputation for delivering high-quality inter-city trains,” remarked Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail on June 4.

A separate £40 million agreement with FirstGroup ensures that Alstom’s Central Rivers depot in Burton-upon-Trent will handle maintenance, servicing, overhauls, and cleaning of these five trains over a span of five years.

This initiative is expected to create around fifty jobs across both facilities while also benefiting Alstom’s broader UK supply chain.

“By merging our extensive technical know-how with FirstGroup’s operational strengths and Eversholt Rail’s resources, we’re committed to providing passengers traveling between Stirling and London with a modernized travel experience that’s both reliable and pleasant,” stated Peter Broadley, Commercial Director UK & Ireland at Alstom.