In July 2012, it was announced byNetwork Rail that theMidland Main Line (MML) would beelectrified north ofBedford, allowing the diesel trains currently used on the route by to be replaced with new electric trains.[9][10] However, electrification was 'paused' by Network Rail in June 2015,[11] and then cancelled in July 2017 by then-Secretary of State for Transport,Chris Grayling, who made the decision to use bi-mode trains on the MML instead.[12]
In August 2019,East Midlands Railway placed a £400million order for 33 five-car bi-mode units, to replace itsClass 180 and222 fleets on the MML.[13][14][15][12][note 1] The purchase is being funded byRock Rail East Midlands.[12] It was originally planned that the new trains would enter service before December 2022;[17][18][19] following multiple delays,[7][20] the fleet was planned to enter service in early 2025, but this did not happen.[21]
In October 2020, following a public competition,[22] EMR announced the Class 810 units would be branded asAurora.[23]
In June 2025, having missed the May 2025 timetable change, EMR confirmed that the units would be introduced in "a phased roll-out during 2026"[24] to allow for completion of testing and validation during summer 2025, followed by acceptance and training of drivers and train crew. On 8 August 2025, the first unit was accepted into their fleet following the completion of testing.[25]
On 10 November 2025, EMR confirmed that the first units would enter service in time for the December 2025 timetable change,[1] and the fleet was officially launched on 20 November at a press event atEtches Park depot in Derby.[26]
On 3 December 2025, the first train formed the 07:00 service from Sheffield to London St Pancras.[27]
The Class 810 is a modification of theClass 802 units Hitachi have delivered to a number of British train operators.[28] The major change is a 2-metre (6 ft 7 in) reduction in the length of each vehicle, which is required in order to allow paired (ten-car) Class 810 trains to useLondon St Pancras station.[4] Some of the length reduction has been achieved by reprofiling the front end of the train and shortening the nose cone.[3]
Construction of class 810 units
Compared to Class 802 units, the 810s are fitted with an additional diesel power pack—for a total of four—and each engine is uprated from 700 to 735 kW (939 to 986 hp). Both of these changes are intended to satisfy the franchise requirement that the new trains equal or exceed the performance of the current Class 222 units.[3] The power packs are installed under the first, second, fourth, and fifth vehicles, while the third (centre) vehicle carries the high-voltage transformer. A total of eight 290 kW (390 hp)traction motors are fitted to four bogies on the second and fourth cars.[29][4]
In response to customer feedback regarding seating comfort on earlier Class 80x units, both first- and standard-class seats on the Class 810 are of a unique design that is intended to offer enhanced comfort. They are based on the existing FISALean design, but of an altered appearance. EMR worked closely with Derby-based design company DGDESIGN on the design of the new interiors.[30] It is claimed that the seats have wider cushions, more-sculpted headrests, softer and deeper armrests, additional privacy screening, and be upholstered in a wool-richmoquette that is intended to be easier to keep clean. Every passenger has access to power sockets and USB charging points, at-seat coat hooks, and storage space under each seat.[31][32]
^The Class 810 fleet did not directly replace the Class 180 units, as EMR withdrew them at the May 2023 timetable change, earlier than originally expected.[16]
