Alstom Secures £50m UK Class 222 Train Maintenance Contract

Alstom has secured a £50 million contract with FirstGroup and Eversholt Rail to refresh and maintain five six-car Class 222 Meridian trains ahead of the launch of Lumo's open access services between Stirling and London. The contract includes a £40 million Train Services Agreement to be carried out at Alstom’s Central Rivers facility, where the trains will be maintained, overhauled, serviced, and cleaned over the next five years. Additionally, a £10 million fleet modernisation program at Alstom’s Widnes site will upgrade the trains with new ergonomic seating, enhanced passenger Wi-Fi, a full exterior repaint to match Lumo’s branding, new CCTV systems, and Intelligent Engine Start-Stop technology to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This partnership aims to deliver a modern, reliable, and comfortable travel experience while supporting sustainability and innovation in UK rail transport, with Alstom’s expertise combined with FirstGroup’s operational capabilities. The trains, previously operated by East Midlands Railway, will enter service on the West Coast Main Line, supporting Lumo’s expansion as a nationwide operator. The contract is also expected to create jobs across Alstom’s UK operations.