On Tuesday 10 February, CrossCountry unveiled the first of its refurbished Voyager trains at Alstom’s Litchurch Lane works in Derby. Assembled guests and excited staff from both companies were invited to tour the train and experience the improvements first-hand.
As could be seen, the refurbishment programme has delivered a fully refreshed interior and exterior, creating a modern and consistent look throughout the fleet, across both standard and first class. Improvements, which will be rolled out to all 70 trains in CrossCountry’s long-distance fleet, include:
- New seating with increased legroom, improved under-seat storage, and integrated power sockets.
- Upgraded tables at all seats.
- New carpets throughout and refreshed interior and exterior artwork.
- More efficient LED lighting throughout.
- Refurbished toilets and vestibules.
- New and upgraded onboard CCTV.
On unveiling the refurbished train, CrossCountry’s managing director, Shiona Rolfe, said: “This train marks an important step in our commitment to improving the experience for everyone who travels with us. The Voyager fleet has served passengers well for more than two decades, and these upgrades will ensure it continues to meet modern expectations for comfort, sustainability and security.
“We’re proud to be investing in the future of long-distance rail travel and look forward to welcoming passengers on board our refreshed trains.”
Maintained, serviced, and overhauled by Alstom at its Central Rivers Depot, the refurbishment of the Voyagers is being carried out by around 130 staff at its Derby Litchurch Lane facility. In line with Alstom’s policy of sending no waste to landfill, would-be waste material from the refurbishment process is set to be recycled, with options being explored on how to make the most of these as the programme continues.
“This milestone reflects the strength of Alstom’s refurbishment capabilities in the UK and the expertise of our team in Derby,” said Steve Harvey, Alstom’s services director, UK and Ireland.
“Upgrading a fleet as intensively used as the Voyagers demands precision, innovation and deep technical knowledge – and our people have delivered exactly that.”
“I’m proud of the quality and dedication our team has brought to the first Voyager to leave Litchurch Lane and I know that same commitment will define every train we deliver throughout this programme.”
Legacy Alstom trains, the Voyagers are owned by rolling stock company Beacon and leased to CrossCountry. Beacon has invested a total of £75.1million into the fleet refurbishment.
Adam Cunliffe, Beacon Rail’s chief executive officer, said: “Beacon is proud to support CrossCountry in delivering this substantial upgrade to the Voyager fleet. These trains have underpinned long-distance rail travel in Britain for more than two decades, and this investment ensures they remain reliable, comfortable, and fit for the future.
“Through our close partnership with CrossCountry and Alstom, we remain committed to providing sustainable, high-quality rolling stock that enhances the passenger experience.”
Built in 2000, the long-distance Voyager fleet has been a cornerstone of Britain’s rail network for over 20 years, replacing former British Rail stock and setting new standards for comfort and reliability.
Over the next two years, a total of 136 Voyager (Class 220) and 176 Super Voyager (Class 221) cars are being refurbished by Alstom in Derby, including an additional 12 trains added to the CrossCountry fleet following their release from Avanti West Coast.
The refreshed train – Class 220 No. 220033 – returned to service on Tuesday 24 February.
Image credit: CrossCountry
