A MAJOR Japanese firm has secured a seven-year extension to its maintenance contract for ScotRail’s electric train fleet.
Hitachi Rail, which is headquartered in London and whose parent company is based in Japan, covers both heavy and light maintenance of ScotRail’s 70-strong Class 385 electric train fleet.
The commuter fleet operates primarily between Edinburgh and Glasgow and is seen as part of a wider modernisation and decarbonisation programme of Scotland’s rail network, and is supported by the Scottish Government.
Electric trains were first introduced in 2018 following the electrification of the Edinburgh-Glasgow main line.
ScotRail estimates an annual decrease of 82% in emissions, equivalent to approximately 25,200 tonnes of CO₂, compared to the diesel trains they replaced.
Magnus Conn, engineering director at ScotRail, said the agreement will ensure the electric fleet will remain safe and efficient under Hitachi’s maintenance.
He said: “We are delighted to strengthen our successful partnership with Hitachi through this extended maintenance contract for our Class 385 fleet.
“It builds on the solid foundations of collaboration between ScotRail and Hitachi, ensuring our fleet remains safe, efficient, and ready to meet the future needs of Scotland’s Railway.
“Hitachi has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our operational needs and a strong commitment to innovation and reliability.
“Their advanced technology and expertise will be instrumental in ensuring our trains remain reliable and efficient, allowing us to provide the high standard of service our customers expect and deserve.”
Under the extended contract, Hitachi Rail said it will continue to support the fleet’s performance through investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and digital solutions.
This includes the potential rollout of HMAX, Hitachi’s digital asset monitoring platform, designed to enhance predictive maintenance and operational planning.
The Class 385 fleet is maintained at several locations, including Craigentinny Depot in Edinburgh, where Hitachi recently completed a £30 million upgrade to the facility.
It was originally constructed in the early 20th century and was modernised to accommodate new fleets along with supporting the upskilling of local workers.
Angus Thom, senior director of operations, service and maintenance at Hitachi Rail, said his firm are “committed” to future-proofing the ScotRail Class 385 fleet.
He said: “This new contract strongly endorses Hitachi Rail’s maintenance capabilities. Our fleet is among the UK's most reliable, thanks to our close and positive collaboration with ScotRail as part of ‘Team Scotland’. Together, we have delivered one of the best fleets in Britain.
“Everyone at Hitachi Rail looks forward to continuing this relationship into the next decade.
“We are committed to continuous improvement and excited by the potential to digitally future-proofing this fleet.”
