Class 357 c2c trains to be repainted in major project

The aim is to improve longevity and reliability, the rail operator says, and enhance customer experience for the 35.8 million journeys made annually on c2c services.

The initiative, carried out in collaboration with rolling stock manufacturer Alstom, will involve repainting each of the 74 units introduced into service between 1998 and 2002.

The 357 units are on lease until 2029.

All Trenitalia c2c Class 357 trains to be repainted in major project (Image: Supplied) Repainting each train takes around 20 days and involves stripping back the cars, undertaking minor repairs and restoration, and applying a new waterborne hydro topcoat, an eco-friendly paint system.

This will ensure the trains continue to operate successfully for the remainder of their service.

Jeff Baker, c2c’s head of engineering, said: “We are delighted with the progress of the 357 repaint project.

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“We know that this work, led by our partners at Alstom, will both improve the longevity of our 357 fleet and will benefit our customers for years to come.”

Peter Keighron, Alstom’s portfolio director – commuter fleets, said: “The 357 units are the workhorse of the c2c fleet and this repaint will allow them to continue serving the millions of passengers they carry every year.”

The project will take 24 months to complete.