History

Bombardiers overview;

In 2002 and 2003 Bombardier Transportation received an order for a total of 27 diesel-electric multiple unit cars for HSBC Rail UK Limited. The 125 mph (200 km/h) Class 222 trains are run by the operator’s East Midland Trains and Hull Trains as 4, 5 and 9 section configurations and run on the routes London-Nottingham, London-Sheffield and London-Derby. The 23 trains of East Midland Trains carry the designation "Meridian", the remaining 4 trains of Hull Trains are referred to as "Pioneer" . The diesel-electric multiple units are based on Bombardier's highly successful, proven “Voyager” design and the trains are fitted out to the highest standard. In contrast to these, however, they are equipped with extensive catering facilities to enable the operator to provide high levels of service to their customers with retail outlets and at seat trolley services. Other features include an electronic seat reservation system, on-board CCTV, superior First Class accommodation, with 2+1 seating and comprehensive facilities in each vehicle. The trains are of modern, stylish design, are fully air-conditioned and meet all relevant requirements for disabled people.

First Hull Trains (formerly known as 'Hull Trains') introduced Class 222 Pioneer units, to replace its Class 170 Turbostars in May 2005. The units reduced journey times between Hull and King's Cross by up to 20 minutes. The Pioneers have a different interior colour scheme and less first-class seating than the Meridians.

First Hull Trains fleet consisted of four four-car Pioneers, each named after a 'modern-day pioneer' related to Hull.

222 101 - Professor George Gray

222 102 - Professor Stuart Palmer

222 103 - Dr John Godber

222 104 - Sir Terry Farrell

222 103 was involved in an accident during maintenance work that severely damaged two of the unit's four cars.

First Hull Trains decided to use only Class 180 (Adelante) units from 2009 onwards. The Class 222 Pioneers have been transferred to EastMidlands Trains and are now known as Meridians.