Gainsborough’s Eminox delivers exhaust solution to new LNER Hitachi Azuma fleet

High-performance exhausts specialist Eminox has provided key components to LNER’s new Hitachi Rail hybrid electric and diesel Azuma trains, which entered service last week. Part of a major investment in the East Coast Mainline, they are the first new trains on the route in 30 years.

Working with Hitachi Rail, Eminox has created and manufactured specially designed exhausts and insulated pipework for LNER’s entire 65-locomotive fleet. Modelled on the Japanese bullet train and assembled in the UK, they will initially operate between London Kings Cross and Leeds, before being rolled out across the LNER network.

The Azuma is part of the Hitachi AT300 product family and is Class 800 bi-mode multiple unit. Eminox has worked with Hitachi on the AT300 product family since 2014 and has supplied over 550 systems, many of which are already in service on trains operated by Great Western Railway and TransPennine Express.

Hitachi chose Eminox for the project due to its concept-to-manufacture capabilities, expertise and experience in exhaust and emissions control, and strong track record. Eminox is the only UK exhaust company to hold the BS EN 15085-2:2007 CL1 world rail welding standard.

“After working closely with Hitachi for five years on the AT300 project, it is great to see the Azuma enter service, transforming the travel experience for LNER passengers,” said Cyril Journoux, Original Equipment (OE) Sales Director, Eminox. “As a Lincolnshire business we’re delighted the Azuma fleet will be passing through the county, showcasing our local design and manufacturing expertise to the world.”

Eminox is a world leader in providing exhaust and emissions control solutions across multiple applications, including rail, coach, bus, truck and construction machinery. Thanks to its expertise and flexibility, it is trusted by multiple original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to deliver the performance and engineering excellence they require.