EMR Confirms 2025 Launch for Aurora Trains

East Midlands Railway is to introduce the first of its new trains before the end of the year.

The operator has responded to concerns about delays in the Aurora fleet taking to the tracks, after reportedly facing teething problems during testing.

The Department for Transport said last week the trains would not enter service until next year.

An East Midlands Railway spokesperson said: “We remain fully committed to introducing our new Class 810 Aurora fleet on the Intercity route as soon as possible, with the first train entering service in 2025 and a phased roll-out continuing through 2026.

“Our drivers and crews are already in training to safely begin services once the trains are available.”

The bi-mode trains will run on both electric and diesel, following the upgrade of tracks from Kettering, through Harborough to Wigston.

One of the Aurura trains during testing Pic: Steve Jones

EMT has also warned some trains this winter will have fewer carriages, as some existing high-speed trains are being withdrawn and transferred to another operator.

The spokesperson added: “To maintain a reliable service during the transition period, over the winter, a small number of EMR trains will run with fewer carriages than usual, and some services will not have seat reservations.

“This will help us manage the transition from our existing trains to the new Aurora fleet in a controlled way, as three Class 222 trains are returned to the leasing company between September and December 2025, before transferring to Lumo.

“These adjustments are being carefully planned to prioritise key services and minimise disruption for our customers. We are working closely with industry partners to maintain service continuity.

“We thank our customers for their patience and support as we prepare for the arrival of Aurora.”