Alstom Awarded Contract for Battery-Electric Train Fleet Production in Derby

The UK government has finalised a £370 million contract with Alstom for the construction of 17 new battery-electric trains, destined for use on West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway services. The trains, comprising five carriages each, will be manufactured at Alstom's Litchurch Lane facility in Derby.

This initiative is projected to generate 600 direct manufacturing roles at the Derby plant and sustain approximately 3,000 wider jobs within the UK's rail supply sector. The new fleet aims to replace older diesel trains, promising enhanced service reliability and a reduced environmental footprint through its battery-electric propulsion system.

Rail Minister Huw Merriman stated the investment underscores the government's commitment to modernising the rail network and supporting skilled employment across the country. He emphasised the fleet's role in delivering more efficient and comfortable journeys for passengers.

The procurement forms part of the government's broader strategy to decarbonise the railway network by 2040. Alstom UK and Ireland's Managing Director, Nick Crossfield, highlighted the contract as a significant boost for UK rail manufacturing, affirming the company's long-term presence and investment in Derby.