LNER Azuma: 2026 Construction Update & Route Map

LNER’s Azuma trains revolutionize UK rail, boosting East Coast Main Line capacity and passenger experience with faster, greener travel.

LNER Azuma: 2026 Construction Update & Route Map
February 23, 2025 6:51 am
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The LNER Azuma project, part of the UK’s broader Intercity Express Programme (IEP), introduced a state-of-the-art fleet of 65 Hitachi-built trains to modernize the East Coast Main Line (ECML). This initiative focused on enhancing operational flexibility through bi-mode technology, increasing network capacity, and significantly improving passenger journey metrics. The project represents a critical upgrade to one of the UK’s primary rail arteries.

AttributeDetails
Project NameLNER Azuma Fleet (Intercity Express Programme – ECML)
LocationEast Coast Main Line (ECML), UK (London to Yorkshire, North East England & Scotland)
Route Length393 miles (632 km)
Max Operational Speed125 mph (201 km/h)
Estimated Cost£5.7 billion (for the total Intercity Express Programme)
StatusOperational (Entered service May 2019)
Key ContractorsClient: UK Department for Transport (DfT)
Operator: LNER
Manufacturer: Hitachi Rail
Interior Design: DCA Design

Technical Specifications

The core of the project is the deployment of Hitachi’s AT300 family of trains, comprising Class 800 (bi-mode) and Class 801 (fully electric) units. The fleet’s bi-mode capability is a key technological feature, allowing trains to operate seamlessly using 25 kV AC overhead electric lines or their underfloor diesel generators on non-electrified sections of the route. This eliminates the need for locomotive changes and enables direct services to destinations off the core electrified ECML, such as Middlesbrough and Lincoln.

The 65-train fleet is a mix of five-car and nine-car formations, increasing seat capacity on the ECML by approximately 12,200. The trains exhibit superior acceleration, reaching their operational top speed of 125 mph significantly faster than the legacy InterCity 125 and 225 fleets, contributing to journey time reductions of up to 22 minutes on key routes like London to Edinburgh. Onboard systems were also upgraded, featuring an advanced traffic light seat reservation system, at-seat power sockets, and enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, which were significant upgrades for passenger service quality on the line.

Key Takeaways

  • Enhanced Operational Flexibility: The integration of bi-mode (electro-diesel) technology in the Class 800 units allows for unparalleled route flexibility, expanding direct high-speed services to towns and cities on non-electrified branch lines.
  • Significant Capacity & Network Expansion: The introduction of the 65-strong fleet provided a major uplift in seating capacity, alleviating overcrowding and enabling LNER to increase service frequency and launch new city-to-city connections.
  • Modern Passenger Experience: The Azuma fleet set a new standard for UK intercity travel with ergonomic interiors, improved accessibility, and digital amenities such as real-time reservation information and universal power access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the LNER Azuma trains enter service?
The LNER Azuma trains first entered passenger service on the East Coast Main Line in May 2019, beginning a phased rollout to replace the entire legacy fleet.

Who built the Azuma trains?
The Azuma trains were manufactured by the Japanese company Hitachi Rail. The bodyshells were built in Kasado, Japan, with final assembly and testing completed at Hitachi’s purpose-built facility in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, UK.