We spoke with Paul Marchant, product and industrial design manager, about the design of the new Elizabeth line trains. 👑🚇
If you have questions about the new service make sure you visit our website to find out everything you need to know.
Opening comment
Paul explains how he helped design the interior of the trains to fit with the aesthetic of the line and the network.
‘The size of the trains is truly phenomenal and will blow people away when they visit
It’s a step-change in how we do transport and will pull the development of all the other Tube and rail lines in a new, exciting direction.’
Moquette 💜
The line is purple to reflect the royal link. The colours of the moquette were chosen to resonate with that specific shade of purple.
‘WallaceSewell designed the moquette, supported by us in the product design team.
Purple is a very challenging colour, and there were lots of elements to harmonise. We weaved in colours from the lines that interchange with the Elizabeth line. The silver, red and blue of the Jubilee, Central and Piccadilly lines, as well as the orange of the London Overground and the turquoise of the DLR was used.
We also matched the moquette to the interior of the new trains. We worked hard to orchestrate the colours with grab poles, flooring and walls. The moquette injects a vibrancy to the new trains. It creates a distinct feel that is dynamic and exciting, reflecting a fresh new railway for London.’
Enhanced experience
The trains provide live customer information, both audio and visual. Customers also benefit from aircon, CCTV and free wi-fi.
‘You’ve got to make the railway accessible for everybody. That’s why we’ve created spacious, walk-through trains with dedicated spaces for wheelchair users and multi-purpose spaces for people with buggies, luggage and cycles.’
Accessibility
All Elizabeth line stations are step-free from street to platform, with level boarding at the new stations between Paddington and Woolwich, and at Heathrow. The wheelchair bays are always in the same place on the platform so you can get on at one station and get off at the next. 👩🦽
Tell us about your favourite things on the Elizabeth line 👇🏾
There are so many details to love ranging from the wrist strap design in the carriages to lampshades high above on the ceilings. Tell us about what’s caught your attention!
Soundtrack
Watch Chineke Orchestra record the soundtrack from home space at the Woolwich Works, located on the Elizabeth line. 🎼