ScotRail has opened a tender for a new suburban train fleet aimed at improving comfort, reliability, and accessibility, while also supporting cleaner, more sustainable travel across Scotland’s busiest routes. The announcement marks a pivotal stage in the operator’s long-term fleet renewal programme, as nearly two-thirds of ScotRail’s existing trains are expected to be replaced over the next 15 years. The new suburban train fleet is projected to begin service in the early 2030s.
The trains will serve routes including East Kilbride, Fife, the Borders, and Glasgow’s inner suburban lines, such as the Argyle Line and South Electrics routes, including the Shotts line. ScotRail hopes the new trains will help more people choose rail over cars, in line with the Scottish Government’s push to cut emissions and back greener ways to travel. The suburban train fleet will feature upgrades such as better air-conditioning, smoother and quieter rides, easier level boarding, and space for active travel.
The Scottish Government has granted full approval for the procurement process, which will be coordinated with Network Rail’s ongoing electrification projects on key lines. David Ross, ScotRail’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “This is exciting news for our passengers who will benefit from these new trains in the years to come. This is an essential step in making rail the easier, more attractive choice compared with travelling by car. We look forward to further discussions with potential suppliers as we continue to deliver a safe, reliable, and green railway.”
Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, added: “Resilient ScotRail services are core to our objectives of a reliable railway that enables access to employment, education, and leisure opportunities. This latest milestone in renewing older fleets demonstrates our commitment to making our publicly owned and operated rail services a success. We would encourage the market to engage with ScotRail on this opportunity.”
The tender follows an earlier market engagement exercise and runs in parallel with a separate process to replace ScotRail’s high-speed trains.
