Heathrow Express has unveiled a fleet of 12 ‘new’ trains. The new fleet, fully refurbished Class 387s that have been 'up-cycled' from GWR, marks the first fleet refresh since Heathrow Express launched in 1998.
Heathrow Express’ trains have more space for wheelchair users, double the number of toilets and a continuous gangway through the whole train. In addition, Business First passengers have work tables and extra legroom.
The fleet uses regenerative braking which means trains slow by electric motor rather than brake shoes and discs. This reduces wear and tear and minimises damage to the train and rails caused by ‘wheel slides’ as well as generating electricity which is fed back into the overhead power grid.
The trains also feature the new European Train Control System for signalling, which continuously calculates a safe maximum speed for each train, with cab signalling for the driver and on-board systems that take control if the permissible speed is exceeded.
The interiors include USB plugs with every plug socket, making it easier for international passengers to charge devices while they travel as well as on-board 4G-enabled Wi-Fi.
Sophie Chapman, director of Heathrow Express, said: “Heathrow Express is at the forefront of the industry-wide roll-out of state-of-the-art signalling technology as we are one of the first UK train companies to run the European Train Control System - a huge step forward for the British rail industry. ETCS provides an on-board signalling system which is a gold standard of safety and efficiency.
“We are proud to be serving passengers who need to make essential journeys during lockdown, and they can be reassured that our new trains are subject to a comprehensive anti-bacterial cleaning regime, as well as providing the best and fastest service between Central London and Heathrow."
Due to Covid-19, Heathrow Express is currently running two trains an hour, instead of its usual four trains an hour.