**London**: Hitachi Rail has extended its maintenance contract for ScotRail’s Class 385 electric trains, enabling significant emissions reductions. The partnership incorporates HMAX technology to enhance fleet performance and underscores the commitment to modernising Scotland’s rail network to support environmental goals, backed by Scottish Government funding.
Hitachi Rail, with its headquarters in London and its parent company based in Japan, is continuing its partnership with ScotRail through an extended maintenance contract for the Class 385 electric train fleet. This fleet of 70 trains primarily facilitates commuter travel between Edinburgh and Glasgow and is a critical component of Scotland’s broader modernisation and decarbonisation programme for its rail network. This initiative is backed financially by the Scottish Government.
The introduction of electric trains began in 2018 following the electrification of the Edinburgh-Glasgow railway line. As a result of this transition, ScotRail has projected an impressive annual reduction of approximately 82% in emissions, equating to around 25,200 tonnes of CO₂ compared to the diesel trains that the electric ones have replaced.
Magnus Conn, the engineering director at ScotRail, expressed satisfaction with the extended maintenance agreement, stating, “We are delighted to strengthen our successful partnership with Hitachi through this extended maintenance contract for our Class 385 fleet.” Conn highlighted the importance of this collaboration, ensuring that the fleet remains safe and efficient, poised to respond to the future needs of Scotland’s railway system. He noted Hitachi’s strong commitment to innovation and reliability, asserting that their advanced technology and expertise are vital for maintaining the service quality expected by passengers.
The extended contract involves further investment by Hitachi in infrastructure, workforce development, and digital solutions aimed at enhancing the fleet’s operational performance. Among these initiatives is the rollout of HMAX, Hitachi’s digital asset monitoring platform, which is designed to improve predictive maintenance and operational planning.
Maintenance of the Class 385 fleet occurs at multiple locations, primarily at the Craigentinny Depot in Edinburgh. This facility recently underwent a £30 million upgrade to better support the new fleet and enhance the skills of local workers. The depot was originally built in the early 20th century and has been modernised to meet current operational demands.
Angus Thom, senior director of operations, service and maintenance at Hitachi Rail, affirmed his company’s dedication to the ongoing success of the ScotRail Class 385 fleet. “This new contract strongly endorses Hitachi Rail’s maintenance capabilities,” Thom said. He further noted the reliability of the fleet and underlined the positive working relationship between Hitachi and ScotRail, referring to their collaboration as part of “Team Scotland.” He expressed optimism for the future, stating, “We are committed to continuous improvement and excited by the potential to digitally future-proof this fleet.”
This renewed agreement highlights the ongoing efforts to embrace modern technology and sustainable practices in Scotland’s railway infrastructure, paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient transportation network.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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