ScotRail’s Suburban Fleet: Scottish Rail Modernization & Future Rail

Introduction

ScotRail has announced a contract notice seeking suppliers for a new suburban train fleet, with the new trains slated to begin service in the early 2030s. This initiative is a key part of ScotRail’s fleet modernization, as two-thirds of its trains will need replacing over the next 15 years.

Main Content

Fleet Replacement Program

The contract notice is for a new suburban train fleet. These trains are expected to enter service in the early 2030s. This announcement is a key step in fleet modernization, as two-thirds of ScotRail’s trains will need to be replaced over the next 15 years.

Operational Routes

The new trains are planned to operate on routes including East Kilbride, Fife, the Borders, and Glasgow’s inner suburban lines such as the Argyle Line and South Electrics routes, including the Shotts line.

Passenger Experience and Sustainability

The new trains are designed to encourage passengers to switch from cars to rail. Enhancements will include more comfortable journeys, modern air-conditioning, improved reliability, lower emissions, increased accessibility with level boarding, and active travel provisions for customers. This supports the Scottish Government’s commitment to greener travel and improved public transport.

Government and Procurement Details

The Scottish Government has approved the full procurement, which will be coordinated with Network Rail’s electrification of key routes. The procurement follows a market engagement exercise earlier this year and runs alongside a separate process for replacing ScotRail’s high-speed trains. Details are available via the Public Contracts Scotland website. ScotRail cannot comment on specifics that might influence the active procurement process.

Conclusion

ScotRail has issued a contract notice for a new suburban train fleet, with trains expected to enter service in the early 2030s. The new trains will operate on various routes, aiming to improve passenger experience and support greener travel. The Scottish Government has approved the procurement process.

ScotRail

ScotRail is a railway operator.

Network Rail

Network Rail is a railway infrastructure manager.