ScotRail launches procurement for new train fleet

5th November 2025

ScotRail has today (Wednesday, 5 November 2025) issued a contract notice on the Procurement Contracts Scotland (PCS) website for the launch of a new suburban train fleet.

Potential suppliers are being invited to tender for this opportunity which will see the trains enter service in the early 2030s.

Within the next 15 years, two thirds of ScotRail's trains will need to be replaced and today’s announcement is another significant step towards that.  

The planned trains will serve routes such as East Kilbride, Fife, Borders, and the Glasgow inner suburban routes, including the Argyle Line (which includes services between Glasgow and Motherwell, Larkhall and Lanark) and South Electrics (including the Shotts line) routes.

New trains are an important factor in encouraging more people to leave the car at home and travel by rail and investment in modern trains is central to providing a better experience for customers.

Enhancements will include more comfortable journeys, improved on-board facilities such as modern air-conditioning, greater reliability, reduced emissions, increased accessibility such as level boarding, and active travel provision for customers. 

The Scottish Government has given its approval for the full procurement to proceed, and the process is being closely coordinated with Network Rail’s work to electrify key routes across the network. 

David Ross, ScotRail Chief Operating Officer, said, "This is exciting news for our passengers who will benefit from these new trains in the years to come.

"This is an essential step in making rail the easier, more attractive choice compared with travelling by car.  

“We look forward to further discussions with potential suppliers as we continue to deliver a safe, reliable, and green railway."

Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, said, "Resilient ScotRail services are core to our objectives of a reliable railway that enables access to employment, education, and leisure opportunities.

“This latest milestone in renewing older fleets demonstrates our commitment to making our publicly owned and operated rail services a success. We would encourage the market to engage with ScotRail on this opportunity.”