The first of the ScotRail Alliance’s high-speed trains has arrived in Aberdeen for driver training ahead of the fleet being rolled out next year.

When the fully refurbished fleet has entered passenger service, the high-speed trains will connect Scotland’s seven cities.

The first train will be based in Aberdeen, from where it will travel the network in the North East of Scotland for driver training over the coming months.

Key features of the high-speed trains include:

– More seats
– Increased luggage space
– Power sockets at seats
– Enhanced on-board catering

ScotRail Alliance Managing Director Alex Hynes said:

“The arrival of the first high-speed train in Aberdeen is an exciting milestone in our plan to build the best railway Scotland has ever had. Our refurbished high-speed trains will connect Scotland’s seven cities, offering better connections for commuters, business travellers and an opportunity for tourists to get out and about across this great country.

“The refurbished high-speed trains will mean more seats, better services and an improved experience for our customers.

“The investment we are making in high-speed trains is a clear sign of the ScotRail Alliance’s commitment to building a world class railway for the whole of Scotland.”

Humza Yousaf, Minister for Transport and the Islands, said:

“It is great to see this train arrive in Scotland for driver training, an important step towards delivery. Next year sees the start of a transformed inter-city service – connecting Scotland’s seven cities with high-speed trains.

“The refurbishment programme has already started. And when the 26 fully upgraded trains roll out across the country, I know they will be popular with passengers: more seats, better journeys, the latest standard of comfort, better accessibility, and enhanced catering.”

The high-speed trains will be leased from Angel Trains. CEO Malcolm Brown said:

“We are delighted to have delivered the first of our high-speed train fleet to ScotRail to enable driver training to commence.

“The fleet will undergo interior and technical improvements prior to entering into passenger service to ensure that it can meet the requirements of modern intercity travellers.

“With the support of Transport Scotland and ScotRail, Angel Trains has committed to invest in excess of £50m in the fleet in the coming years. We will be excited to see this fleet introduced next year.”