Livery of Avanti West Coast’s Class 805 trains

The livery for Avanti West Coast’s new EDMU fleet has been revealed for the first time at Hitachi’s Newton Aycliffe works. The train’s stylish look takes its inspiration from Avanti West Coast’s Pendolino, with its palette of colours reflecting the landscape of the regions served by the West Coast operator.

The Class 805, numbered 805 005, was undergoing some final touches before its scheduled departure to Oxley depot in the West Midlands next week, becoming the third train to formally transfer over to the Avanti West Coast fleet. All three units will be used for main line testing and staff training, with the first trains scheduled to enter service in the coming months.  

Ellie Woolmore, Head of Brand at Avanti West Coast commented: “The excitement around our new fleet is really starting to build. The new livery helps to give the train its identity, taking its lead from our iconic Pendolino fleet, whilst accentuating its sleek design.”

The news comes in the same week that the West Coast Partnership, which compromises Avanti West Coast and West Coast Partnership Development, was awarded an initial three-year National Rail Contract, with an option to extend for a further six years.