Chiltern Railways, part of the Arriva Group, has signed a lease agreement to introduce a fleet of modernised trains powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), marking a significant step in the operator’s plans to modernise services and reduce emissions. The move follows approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT).
The new fleet, comprising 13 trains, will be introduced in phases from 2026 and will operate across Chiltern’s routes connecting London, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and the West Midlands. The trains will replace the oldest vehicles in Chiltern’s fleet and support the introduction of additional services from late 2026, subject to timetable approvals.
Improved passenger experience and lower emissions
The trains will feature a range of upgrades, including improved accessibility, enhanced seating, live passenger information screens, quieter journeys, and dedicated space for luggage and bicycles. They will be powered by HVO fuel, a renewable energy source produced from vegetable oils and recycled materials. The fuel offers a significantly lower carbon footprint than conventional diesel and is considered a viable solution for reducing emissions on non-electrified railway lines.
Chiltern Railways was the first passenger train operator in the UK to adopt HVO, initially using it to power its Class 68 locomotives in July 2023. From early 2026, the company will continue using HVO to fuel a newer batch of Class 68 locomotives, which will haul the 13 sets of modern coaches included in the new lease agreement.
Commitment to sustainability
The introduction of the new fleet aligns with Arriva Group’s wider sustainability strategy, which aims to modernise fleets, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce environmental impact across its operations in the UK and mainland Europe.
Amanda Furlong, Managing Director UK Trains at Arriva Group, said: “Upgrading our fleet is a vital next step in Chiltern’s modernisation plans and an important part of Arriva’s wider ambition to support the transition to more sustainable rail travel across the UK and Europe.
“We are proud to support this important milestone for Chiltern Railways, which is a great example of what can be achieved through strong collaboration with Government to deliver practical improvements for passengers. We look forward to seeing these upgraded trains improve journeys and lower emissions across the network.”
Rail Minister Lord Hendy also welcomed the announcement, stating: “This government is putting passengers back at the heart of the 21st century railway by investing to make journeys easier, greener, and more comfortable.
“We are continuing to support Chiltern as they develop a plan to introduce additional services into their timetable, giving people more opportunities to work, live, and socialise.”
Backed by long-term agreement with Beacon Trains
Chiltern will lease the new locomotives and coaches from Beacon Trains under a 10-year agreement, with the backing of the Department for Transport.
The lease marks a key milestone in Chiltern Railways’ 2030 Vision, a long-term strategy focused on modernising and decarbonising the operator’s services. As part of this vision, Chiltern is also working with the DfT, Network Rail and other partners to explore partial network electrification and further replacement of legacy diesel trains.
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