British long-distance rail operator CrossCountry has unveiled the first fully refurbished train in its Voyager fleet, marking the start of a GBP 75 million (approximately EUR 87 million) investment program. The refurbishment is being financed by leasing company Beacon Rail.
The refurbished train was unveiled at the Alstom plant in Litchurch Lane, Derby, where the refurbishment work is being carried out.
The program will cover the entire Voyager fleet used for long-distance services, totaling 70 units, over the next two years.
New interiors, more space, and modern amenities
The modernization program involves a complete refurbishment of the interior and exterior of the trains, both in standard and first class. Improvements include:
- new seats with extra legroom;
- integrated power sockets at every seat (3-pin, USB-A, and USB-C);
- upgraded tables;
- more efficient LED lighting;
- new carpets and a refreshed interior design;
- modernized toilets and vestibules;
- updated CCTV systems and automatic passenger counters.
The first refurbished train (unit 220033), originally built in 2000, has now traveled over 5.8 million miles.
Voyager fleet refurbished for another two decades
The Voyager fleet has been one of the pillars of long-distance rail transport in the UK for over two decades.
The introduction of these trains in the early 2000s coincided with a doubling of passenger numbers on long-distance routes, from 12 million in 1997 to 24 million in 2007.
In 2025, CrossCountry recorded 39.6 million journeys, operating services to over 100 stations in England, Scotland, and Wales.
“This train marks an important step in our commitment to improving the experience for everyone who travels with us. The Voyager fleet has served passengers for over two decades, and these upgrades will ensure that it continues to meet modern expectations for comfort, sustainability, and safety,” said Shiona Rolfe, CrossCountry’s managing director.
Alstom’s role and the goal of near-zero waste
The modernization work is being carried out at Alstom’s plant in Derby, where approximately 130 employees are involved in the project. Routine maintenance of the fleet is carried out at the Central Rivers depot.
According to the company, the program is designed to generate almost zero waste, in line with Alstom’s policy of not sending materials to landfill.
“Modernizing a heavily used fleet such as Voyager requires precision, innovation, and deep technical expertise. Our team in Derby has demonstrated exactly these qualities,” said Steve Harvey, Alstom’s director of services for the UK and Ireland, highlighting the close collaboration between Alstom, CrossCountry, and Beacon.
Beacon Rail investment
The Voyager fleet is owned by Beacon Rail and leased to operator CrossCountry. The company is investing GBP 75.1 million (approximately EUR 87 million) in this modernization program.
“These trains have supported long-distance rail travel in the UK for over two decades, and this investment will keep them reliable and fit for the future,” said Adam Cunliffe, CEO of Beacon Rail.
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