Traveling by train can be a source of stress for many passengers, especially those who experience anxiety, autism, or have special accessibility needs. In the United Kingdom, one rail operator has chosen to address this issue with a digital tool that allows passengers to familiarize themselves with the train before boarding.
Lumo has recently enhanced the virtual tour of its trains, offering a detailed online exploration of the interior spaces and onboard facilities.
To create the new virtual tour, Lumo collaborated with digital mapping specialists at Ocean 3D, who performed a complete 3D scan of the operator’s electric train fleet. The new version offers a higher level of detail than the previous edition and includes recently modernized seating areas.
A digital tool to reduce pre-travel anxiety
According to data cited by the operator, over 8 million people in the United Kingdom suffer from various forms of anxiety. Studies show that viewing spaces and routes in advance can significantly reduce the stress associated with travel, especially when using public transport.
In this context, the 360-degree virtual tour allows passengers to explore all areas of the train—including spaces for people with reduced mobility—and better understand what to expect before boarding.
The tool is particularly aimed at people with autism, those who experience anxiety, or passengers who frequently use accessibility facilities.
Increased public interest
Lumo reports that the new version of the virtual tour has already led to a 49% increase in visitor numbers in the first month since its launch, compared to the previous version. The previous tool was used by over 14,200 people, and the operator estimates that the new version will exceed these figures.
“Supporting all members of the community who use our services is extremely important to us. We want every customer to feel welcome and confident when choosing to travel with Lumo,” said Jen Clare, Service Delivery Director at Lumo.
Technology as a tool for inclusion
Ocean 3D representatives emphasize that the solution does not require dedicated applications or special equipment, being accessible directly from the browser, an approach already familiar to the public in areas such as tourism or hotel reservations.
“Transport, and rail transport in particular, is an ideal environment for this type of technology. If the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the space in advance helps people feel more confident about traveling, then the technology is achieving its goal,” said Chris Wood, director of Ocean 3D.
The initiative comes at a favorable time for Lumo, with the operator ranking in the top three in a national survey of UK rail passenger experience published in December 2025.
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