Latest News | 11 November 2020
East Midlands Railway reveals name for new InterCity fleet
East Midlands Railway has revealed the name of its new InterCity fleet following a competition, which attracted more than 2,000 entries.
The Derby train operator has said that the new trains, which are due to come into service from 2023, will be known as Aurora.
Aurora is the name of the Roman goddess of the dawn, representing the new start Aurora provides for the railway serving the East Midlands and South Yorkshire.
The name is also inspired by the Northern Lights, created by the transfer of the sun’s solar energy – matching Aurora's ability to run under electric power.
The state-of-the-art trains have the ability to run using electric overhead lines wherever possible, taking advantage of the £1.5 billion Midland Main Line Upgrade and will ultimately replace the existing diesel train fleet.
Will Rogers, managing director at EMR, said: “It’s fantastic to see the level of excitement that surrounds the introduction of the Aurora fleet to the region.
“We love the winning name as it really fits the project and its aim to bring a new start for the Midland Main Line and our passengers.
“We know our passengers are looking forward to the introduction of the Aurora fleet and the modern, comfortable and greener journeys they will provide.”
EMR has also revealed it is using a local company to design the interior of the trains.
DGDESIGN, which is based at Connect Derby’s Friar Gate Studios, provides design services to companies all over the world.
It has worked with many of the world’s leading rail manufacturers and operators on products ranging from award-winning high-speed trains to innovative automated people movers.
