The Class 379 electrostar train is the first off the production line and following the preview, the train will undergo stringent tests on the dedicated test track at Vellum in the Czech Republic. Testing in the UK is due to start in January with the first train then handed over to NXEA in March next year. The new trains will then be introduced on the Stansted Express route next May. The trains have a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h) and each 4-coach train will have 20 first class and 189 standard class seats. Features include an integral internal CCTV system for passenger safety, a wi-fi network, Audio/Visual passenger information system, luggage stacks and state-of-the-art train management system.

“I’m delighted that the first of the brand new trains which will greatly transform the quality of service we offer to thousands of our customers using the Stansted Express is being unveiled today”, Dean Finch, Group Chief Executive, National Express said.

Stansted Express carries some 5.5 million passengers a year and with the new trains running between the airport and London Liverpool Street station, the company hopes to increase their air travellers’ market share by at least 2% from the current 25%.

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