Avanti West Coast Evero (Class 807 Hitachi A-train) Electric Fleet
UK (West Coast Main Line; London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street) · 2021–2025 (built), 2024 (first service) · Part of a £350 million contract for 23 units (Class 805 and 807) (2019 prices)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThe procurement of these electric units, alongside bi-mode Class 805s, represents a comprehensive fleet modernization strategy for Avanti West Coast to enhance capacity and passenger experience. - The staggered entry into service and the soft launch approach for the first units demonstrate a cautious and phased deployment strategy for new rolling stock. - The joint maintenance arrangement with Alstom at Oxley depot highlights the importance of collaborative partnerships in supporting complex modern train fleets. - The naming of the final unit "Together We Roll" with a wrap celebrating diversity reflects a commitment to social values and employee representation.
Key engineering challenges
Designing electric multiple units to operate on the West Coast Main Line, replacing older Class 221 units and increasing capacity. - Ensuring high levels of passenger comfort and amenities, including wireless inductive charging, 230V/USB sockets, and real-time passenger information systems. - Managing the manufacturing process with bodyshells from Japan and final production in the UK.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- Rock Rail West Coast (owner); Avanti West Coast (operator)
- Lead contractor
- Hitachi Rail
- Lead designers
- Hitachi Rail
- Project type
- new build; vehicle/fleet programme
- Scale
- 10 units (7-car units); Train length: 182 metres; Car length: 26 m; Max speed: 125 mph (200 km/h); Capacity: 453 seats (49 first-class, 404 standard)
- Disciplines
- Mechanical; Electrical; Systems; Software
- Standards & frameworks
- UK railway standards
Sources: British Rail Class 807 - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Class_807) - Avanti West Coast: Our Evero Trains (https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/travel-information/onboard/about-our-trains/evero) - RailAdvent: First new Avanti all-electric trains enter service in Liverpool (https://railadvent.co.uk/2024/11/first-new-avanti-all-electric-trains-enter-service-in-liverpool.html)