Monday, 19 February 2024
- Film captures key stages of the build as the new trains take shape at Hitachi Rail's UK factory
- Includes interviews with EMR and Hitachi staff exploring features and benefits of Aurora fleet
- Documentary highlights the complex project and challenge to building new Aurora fleet
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has released a documentary which showcases the ongoing project to build its new Aurora Intercity Fleet.
The filmmakers go behind the scenes at Hitachi Rail's factory at Newton Aycliffe to show how its new Intercity fleet of 33 five-carriage trains are being built.
It features interviews with Hitachi engineers at they talk through the process of welding, assembling and painting the Class 810 units, as well as what working on such a prestigious project means to them.
While staff from EMR talk through how the business is preparing to operate the new trains - including the multi-million new investment at Derby's Etches Park train depot - the eventual home for the Auroras.
The challenges of such a vast project and the complexity of bringing new trains to the region is also explored, as are the benefits of using local suppliers and the new features customers will enjoy when the trains enter into service.
The Aurora fleet will offer significant advances on the existing fleet, with passengers benefiting from more seats and modern interiors.
The trains will also include features that passengers have said they want to see, including air conditioning, free WiFi throughout, plug sockets and better passenger information screens.
Watch the video below to find out how EMR's new fleet is taking shape.
Rachel Turner, Head of New Trains at East Midlands Railway, said: "We hope our customers enjoy watching this documentary which clearly highlights the passion, expertise and commitment of the people involved in bringing our new fleet of trains to our region."
Amy Webb, Head of EMR Programme at Hitachi Rail said: “This behind-the-scenes documentary unveils the effort and collaboration required to manufacture brand new trains for EMR passengers. It’s also fantastic that the factory team gets the chance to show the talent and heart that goes into Hitachi’s British built trains.