Britain’s government unveiled a plan to introduce 29 battery-powered Adessia Stream trains built by Alstom in Derby, to be operated by TransPennine Express, with services starting around 2034 and a project expected to create about 350 local jobs and thousands more in the UK supply chain.

Alstom has secured a contract worth over €1.2 billion for 29 five-car battery-electric units, including rolling stock and maintenance.

Rock Rail will own the trains, leasing them to TransPennine Express, while Derby’s Alstom facility remains central to delivery and refurbishment work continues for other operators during a build pause.

Riders noted variability in reliability outside peak hours, with occasional crowding despite generally acceptable service.

Transport Focus says the investment could boost reliability, seats, accessibility, and onboard facilities, but emphasizes the need for punctual and dependable everyday service.

The aim is faster, more frequent trains with more seats and better accessibility, benefiting thousands of passengers across the North of England.

Trains will feature quieter, smoother operation, enhanced accessibility, more luggage space, onboard Wi-Fi, step-free boarding, three wheelchair spaces, two accessible toilets, family-friendly areas, and cycle/baby storage on each car.

Each five-car unit will be about 121 meters long, capable of up to 110 mph, offering around 300 seats including First Class with catering, and serving routes linking Liverpool, Manchester, York, Hull, Scarborough, and Saltburn.

As designed, units will provide about 300 passengers per car with Wi‑Fi, air conditioning, power and USB-C sockets at every seat, plus dedicated space for cycles and buggies; multiple train couplings are not expected.

Industry and government figures at the event highlighted modernization, reduced overcrowding, and job creation in the UK, with an estimated around 5,500 roles supported across the supply chain.

The project aligns with the Great British Railways plan, receiving endorsement from the Prime Minister and Transport Secretary as a step toward better journeys, more efficient services, and boosting British industry.

Officials emphasised GBR’s role in revitalising UK industry, regional prosperity, and passenger journeys, with Rock Rail providing funding and Derby-based Alstom delivering the trains.