Chiltern Railways secures modern fleet from Beacon Rail

Arriva Group’s Chiltern Railways has announced a major upgrade to its fleet, securing 13 modern trains under a 10-year lease agreement with Beacon Rail to replace some of the oldest carriages on the UK network. The deal, backed by the Department for Transport (DfT), marks a significant step in Chiltern’s plans to modernise its services and reduce emissions.

The new fleet will begin entering service in phases from 2026, operating on Chiltern’s core route between London, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and the West Midlands. Customers can expect a raft of improvements, including plug sockets and USB ports at every seat, upgraded Wi-Fi, live information screens, quieter rides, air conditioning, and improved accessibility features such as fully accessible toilets. Dedicated luggage and cycle spaces will also be provided, while First Class carriages will be introduced on the route for the first time.

In a push to make services greener, the trains will be powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) – a renewable fuel made from recycled oils and waste materials. HVO significantly cuts carbon emissions and pollutants compared to conventional diesel. The locomotives will also be fitted with stop-start technology to further reduce fuel use and emissions.

Chiltern Railways became the UK’s first passenger operator to introduce HVO in 2023, and the new fleet will expand this effort. The investment will also allow Chiltern to run additional services from late 2026, subject to industry approvals.

Amanda Furlong, Managing Director UK Trains at Arriva Group, said: “Upgrading our fleet is a vital next step in Chiltern’s modernisation plans and an important part of Arriva’s wider ambition to support the transition to more sustainable rail travel across the UK and Europe.

“These upgraded trains will improve journeys and lower emissions across the network.”

Richard Allan, Managing Director of Chiltern Railways, added: “We are thrilled to replace our oldest trains which are nearly 50 years old with a modern equivalent just six years old.

“Renting more trains than we have today means we can operate additional services to help meet rising demand.”

The announcement is a central part of Chiltern’s 2030 Vision, a three-phase plan to modernise and decarbonise its services. Phase one, interior upgrades to existing trains, is already underway. Phase two, the new fleet announcement, will be followed by phase three – the introduction of battery-electric trains to replace the operator’s 35-year-old diesel units.

Rail Minister Lord Hendy welcomed the deal, saying: “This government is putting passengers back at the heart of the 21st century railway by investing to make journeys easier, greener, and more comfortable.

“We are continuing to support Chiltern as they develop plans to introduce additional services, giving people more opportunities to work, live, and socialise.”

Adam Cunliffe, CEO of Beacon Rail, said: “Beacon is delighted to support Chiltern with the lease of the Mark 5A fleet, that will enhance the passenger experience and provide additional capacity.

“Working closely with the Department for Transport and Chiltern, the introduction of the Mark 5As reflects the strong collaboration that Beacon provides to its customers. Beacon is engaging with Chiltern to commence services by spring 2026.”