In a boost for regional growth, Chiltern Railways has today secured modern trains to transform customer journeys in Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands.
Chiltern Railways, which is part of Arriva Group, will replace its oldest carriages (Mark 3s) with 13 modern trains (Mark 5As) which will carry customers along one of its three main routes, between London and the West Midlands, from spring 2026.
New features for customers will include plug sockets and USB ports at every seat, enhanced Wi-Fi and digital customer information screens. Customers will also benefit from onboard air conditioning, improved luggage and bike storage, and dedicated accessible areas including fully accessible toilets.
First Class carriages will also be introduced on the route in 2026, offering more spacious seats and improved connectivity for business and leisure travellers.
Chiltern has decided to fuel these newer trains with recycled vegetable oil (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), a renewable fuel that reduces carbon emissions and cuts pollutants such as nitrous oxide compared to conventional diesel. Chiltern has also contracted the owner of the trains to fit the latest stop-start engine technology software, helping to further reduce emissions for lineside neighbours.
Following a positive decision from the Department for Transport, these newer trains will enter service on a phased basis from early next year as a crucial step in delivering Chiltern’s 2030 Vision of easier, greener, and better journeys. The operator is also working with partners to confirm details of additional timetabled services which would start in December 2026.