Chiltern’s Class 168 DMUs receive third refresh

Chiltern Railways has unveiled the latest refresh to its fleet of Class 168 diesel multiple unit (DMU) commuter trains.

Introduced in 1998, the Class 168s have been refurbished twice before - first in around 2007 and then again in 2013.

The latest refresh is said to be the most extensive so far. It is aimed at providing a better environment for passengers, with faster WiFi, USB charging sockets, new seat moquettes and flooring, and increased visibility of disabled spaces. There is also a new interior decoration and exterior Chiltern Railways livery.

It forms part of Chiltern’s ‘Right Route 2030 Vision’, which aims to modernise and decarbonise its operations to deliver easier, greener and better train travel. It also includes enhanced commuter services in the West Midlands and in London.

Chiltern has aspirations to introduce a new fleet of battery-electric hybrid trains, supported by the installation of discontinuous electrification on certain parts of its route, allowing the batteries to be charged up. The new trains are expected to replace the Class 168s.

It was the first new fleet to be ordered by a privatised train operator. The trains were originally built by Adtranz at the Derby Litchurch Lane works.

The remaining Class 168s will be refreshed and ready for passenger service in the coming months.

“Chiltern has a comprehensive vision and three-stage plan to modernise and decarbonise our railway for our customers and neighbours,” said Managing Director Richard Allan.

“The first part of the plan is to improve our existing trains, with £12 million being spent on 85 carriages that were built in the late 1990s and early 2000s.”