Chiltern Railways First-Class Trains Arrive Spring 2025

Chiltern Railways will introduce new Mark 5A trains with first-class carriages for the first time in over a decade, starting from spring 2025, to replace its nearly 50-year-old fleet on London-West Midlands routes. The new trains will offer passengers spacious seats, enhanced Wi-Fi, charging ports at every seat, improved air conditioning, and digital information screens. The fleet will be powered by recycled vegetable oil to reduce emissions and support environmental sustainability. Chiltern Railways aims to attract both business and leisure travelers seeking premium experiences, despite industry trends moving away from first-class sections. Rail historian Christian Wolmar has raised questions about the demand for premium services on these suburban routes. Company leaders and government officials view this investment as a major step toward boosting regional growth and transforming passenger journeys.