First Class 395 returns after interior renovations

13/09/2023

Author: By Mankirat Kaur

The first of 29 trains that have been subjected to a Euro31 million upgrade has this month re-entered passenger service in the south of the UK. The trains connect London St Pancras International with Ashford, East Kent and Medway stations in the south-east of England.

As part of one of the most comprehensive projects currently being undertaken in the country, each carriage is undergoing a full interior refresh, with interior panels and doors being repainted. Furthermore, the project sees fresh new carpet flooring added to each car. The flooring boasts innovative ‘signage,’ with stripes showing where the aisle is to assist the visually impaired.

Elsewhere, the so-called ‘365 fleet’ is receiving new seats as well as special, wider areas for people with reduced mobility and additional luggage space. A live passenger information system upgrade includes fresh media screens, plus a CCTV system upgrade is being implemented. Finally, passengers will benefit from USB at-seat charging, LED lighting, and new, ergonomic grab handles.

The class 395 highspeed fleet travels at 220km/h, making them the fastest trains in the UK.