Well that video is certainly a development regarding news of the new trains! However, there appears to be an error, early on. It states that there would be 55 new electrics, and 43 new diesel trains. Everything else I have read stated that it's the other way round, 55 diesels and 43 electrics. Now, given the current excess of electrics compared to diesels nationwide, and the impending demise of the Pacers, even that figure still looks disproportionately electric!
I see they have chosen to retain yellow ends on this fleet. Makes sense, it not only looks good with the new livery, but should ease quick acceptance. Again, this would be most important for the diesels, given the high a risk of a diesel train shortage. I see a very slight redesign in the artist's impression, however. Previous impressions showed small grills at the inner ends of the light clusters. A minor, even old-fashioned styling feature I know, but it did give the trains a somewhat more distinct look. It also resembles some old Japanese cars, from the
Honda Prelude to the
Toyota Space Cruiser! Still, I don't like useless cosmetic grills as styling features, so if they are not needed it's best to leave them out.
I am disappointed, however, to read that these come with Fainsa seats. According to a Modern Railways report, The FISA LEAN seat was the clear winner in a survey with regards to comfort. I was hoping we might finally see a train seat which was a little softer than before, rather than harder. Still, there is someone on the Greater Anglia threads who seems to hate the FISA seats more than anything!
) and I believe the Cumbrian Coast.
