Southeastern has announced an extensive modernisation programme for its Class 376 trains in collaboration with industry partners Alstom and Eversholt Rail. This initiative aims to enhance passenger comfort, improve operational efficiency, and rejuvenate the Electrostar fleet, a cornerstone of Southeastern’s metro services since its introduction in 2004. The upgrades include the installation of USB and power outlets at seats, energy-efficient LED lighting, and a refreshed blue livery in the Southeastern design.
Mark Johnson, Southeastern’s Technical Director, shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I am thrilled that we are working alongside our partners Alstom and Eversholt Rail to modernise the Class 376 trains. This mid-life refresh will provide our customers with a better travel experience and keep these trains in impeccable condition for years to come. This is fantastic news for our passengers in Southeast London, East Sussex, and Kent.”
Peter Broadley, Commercial Director for the UK and Ireland at Alstom, added, “We are proud to be part of this significant modernisation of the Class 376 fleet alongside Southeastern and Eversholt Rail. By delivering a refreshed and modernised fleet with enhanced passenger comfort and improved operational efficiency, we ensure that these Derby-built trains continue to provide Southeastern customers with reliable and comfortable journeys.”
Paul Sutherland, Customer Service Director at Eversholt Rail, also expressed his support for the programme: “We are delighted to collaborate with Southeastern and Alstom on this modernisation project for our Class 376 fleet. Following recent investments in the Class 375 and 395 trains, this refurbishment underscores our commitment to improving passenger comfort for Southeastern’s customers.”
The modernisation of the Class 376 trains forms part of Southeastern’s broader fleet improvement programme. This follows the introduction of 30 “City Beam” Class 707 trains, which have already delivered a better and more reliable service on Southeastern’s metro routes.
Additionally, Southeastern’s latest fleet of trains will now feature accessible onboard toilets as part of a multi-million-pound investment by Angel Trains and Southeastern. Passengers travelling in Southeast London and parts of Kent will soon benefit from these upgraded facilities.
Mark Johnson highlighted the importance of this development, saying, “We understand how essential it is for customers to have easy access to toilets during their journeys. Last year, we welcomed the final two ‘City Beams’ into our fleet. While they are our newest trains, we knew we could do more to enhance the experience for our passengers. The installation of onboard toilets is a key step in this direction. We are excited to begin detailed planning in the coming weeks and look forward to the first installations being operational soon.”
This comprehensive investment in Southeastern’s fleet underscores the company’s commitment to delivering a superior travel experience for its passengers across the region.