Livery for Avanti West Coast’s new fleet of trains revealed
First newly liveried Avanti West Coast Class 805 train set to start main line testing.
- First pictures of the Avanti West Coast Class 805 livery released
- Work undertaken at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe facility
- Train will join the test programme on the West Coast route next week
The livery for Avanti West Coast’s new fleet of trains has been revealed for the first time at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe facility in the North East.
The train’s stylish look takes its inspiration from Avanti West Coast’s Pendolino, with its palette of colours reflecting the landscape of the regions served by the West Coast operator.
The Class 805, numbered 805005, was undergoing some final touches before its scheduled departure to Oxley depot in the West Midlands next week, becoming the third train to formally transfer over to the Avanti West Coast fleet.
All three units will be used for main line testing and staff training, with the first trains due to enter service across the network in the coming months.
Ellie Woolmore, Head of Brand at Avanti West Coast commented: “The excitement around our new fleet is really starting to build. The new livery helps to give the train its identity, taking its lead from our iconic Pendolino fleet, whilst accentuating its sleek design.”
The news comes in the same week that the West Coast Partnership, which compromises Avanti West Coast and West Coast Partnership Development, was awarded an initial three-year National Rail Contract, with an option to extend for a further six years.
Contact Information
Notes to editors
About Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast, operator of intercity rail services on the West Coast Main Line, is a joint venture between FirstGroup and Trenitalia, delivering a cleaner, greener railway that drives the West Coast forward.
We’re on a mission to revolutionise train travel. Our refurbed Pendolinos are returning to the rails, with a £117m investment that’s delivering best in class comfort. Rebuilt using sustainable materials wherever possible, including tables made from recycled plastic bottles, our upgraded fleet offers 25,000 brand new seats, free Wi-Fi, onboard recycling and much more.
New Hitachi trains are set to replace our Voyager trains from 2023, leading to a 61% cut in carbon emissions. Quieter and roomier, with more reliable Wi-Fi, wireless charging for electrical devices and a real-time customer information system, the new 23-strong fleet is the result of a £350m investment in sustainable travel.
We’re tackling climate change wherever we can, from reducing energy and water use to training drivers in eco-driving techniques and sourcing food and drink from local suppliers. Our goal is to be net zero carbon by 2031. We’re on track.
For the latest news, visit the Avanti West Coast Media Centre: https://newsdesk.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Press Office: 0845 000 3333