Just did a short hop Darlington-Newcastle on 1E05 (0700 Kings X - Edinburgh) which this morning is being worked by 801205. I’m in coach K, which looks like the unreservable Standard coach as none of the Standard seats are reserved. My initial thoughts:
Good points:
- The seats! (yes I know!) Yes they’re firmer, but they’re still perfectly serviceable. I would actually place them as more comfortable than a Voyager but a little less than a Mk3/4. The extra leg room helps. I don’t find them uncomfortable at all.
- The reservation system is working and is very noticeable when entering a carriage.
- Air conditioning better than on the older trains, much cooler. I find the older trains far too warm.
- I don’t find the lighting too bright.
- Impressive acceleration
Bad points:
- Ride quality is noticeably worse.
- I can see why LNER are putting more luggage racks in, they’re definitely needed!
- First class is not immediately obvious from the outside. There’s just a small sign near the door.
- The traction motors whir a lot when speeding up and slowing down.
I perhaps need to wait to do a longer journey for a better review, but on the whole, they’re not bad trains at all.
I’ll be expecting a visit from the men in white coats momentarily!