Customers travelling on one of Southeastern’s largest train fleets are now benefitting from upgrades and improvements which will provide better journeys on a number of routes.
All 112 of the Class 375 ‘Electrostar’ trains that operate on Southeastern’s routes serving Kent, East Sussex and mainline London stations have received at-seat power sockets, including USB points, and new LED lighting.
The new power sockets allow customers to charge their smartphones, tablets and laptops – supporting commuting and leisure trips throughout the network.
Meanwhile, the energy efficient lighting will produce the same level of light in carriages while using up to three-quarters less energy, furthering reducing the impact on the environment of Southeastern’s all-electric train fleet.
In addition, energy meters have been installed on the 42 trains that didn’t have them to better track usage and costs.
Mark Johnson, Southeastern’s Engineering Director, said:
"This £10m investment in our trains help us to deliver better journeys on our mainline routes connecting London with Kent and East Sussex. We know how much our customers value being able to plug in or charge up their devices while on the move.
"The new LED lighting and energy meters also help us with our energy efficiency and supports our drive to reduce costs wherever possible.
"I’m really proud of all the hard work that has gone into making these improvements, and it is just one part of the wider programme to upgrade all of our trains so that they are fit for the future."
Paul Sutherland, Client Services Director at Eversholt Rail said,
"It is fantastic these upgrades to our Class 375 fleet are now completed and available to customers across the Southeastern network.
"We are delighted to continue to work in partnership with Southeastern to improve our fleets and deliver improved passenger experience.”
Two trains per week were upgraded, with a team of 10 based at Southeastern’s Ashford Train Maintenance Centre on a five-shift turnaround, working days and nights.
