EMR's first refurbished Class 360 will enter service in July
posted on 22nd Jun 2026 09:11
On 10 June 2026, East Midlands Railway, operated by Transport UK, has unveiled the first fully refurbished EMR Connect train. The milestone marks a major step in its 30 million GBP investment to transform journeys between Corby and London St Pancras International.
The newly upgraded Class 360 Desiro UK EMU is the first of the EMR Connect fleet to return to service as part of the operator’s wider 60 million GBP regional refurbishment programme, which is modernising trains across the East Midlands network.
Customers travelling on EMR Connect and Luton Airport Express services experience a significantly enhanced onboard environment, designed to better meet the needs of commuters, leisure travellers and airport passengers. The refurbished trains feature a completely redesigned interior, including new 2 + 2 seating throughout, combining airline-style seating and table bays to create a more spacious and comfortable experience.
Customers will also benefit from upgraded luggage facilities, power and USB charging points, improved passenger information systems, refreshed interiors and enhanced accessibility features. The first refurbished train will enter service in July. Further refurbished Class 360s are expected to enter service over the coming months as the programme continues across the fleet.
EMR Connect operates twice-hourly electric services between Corby and London St Pancras International, calling at Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford, Luton and Luton Airport Parkway. The service was introduced in 2021 as EMR’s first all-electric route, reducing carbon emissions by 77 % compared with previous diesel operations.
