Scotrail has launched the first two new trains which will run on cross-Glasgow services.

The refurbished trains, which will operate from Glasgow Central Low Level and will have wifi from next month, have been leased as part of a £475million train improvement programme. 

They will have better lighting, extra cycle space and at-seat power sockets. 

Seven revamped trains will run at a rate of one every few weeks between now and October on routes between Milngavie/Dalmuir and Motherwell/Larkhall/Cumbernauld via Glasgow Central Low Level. 

They may also run between Glasgow Central High Level and Lanark. Three of the seven extra Class 320 trains are currently operating on these routes before their refurbishment later this summer. 

The refurbishment project is being jointly funded by ScotRail and train owner Eversholt Rail, which is also managing the project. 

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “This programme of refurbishments will bring better facilities, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets and more seats when they begin to operate in and around Glasgow, all of which helps to make rail travel a more modern, comfortable and popular option for the public and supports our commitment to deliver a modernised railway that offers an attractive alternative to car travel and reduces pressure on Scotland’s road network.

“The current programme of train improvements is a key part of the Scottish Government’s £5billion investment in Scotland’s railways and is a great example of how this translates into tangible benefits for passengers.”

ScotRail Alliance managing director Phil Verster said: “These excellent additions to our fleet generate more capacity – and ultimately more seats – for customers in the Strathclyde area, making rail travel a more appealing transport option. 

“This is a milestone achievement in our overall train improvement programme, which sees £475million spent on refurbishments and new trains for Scotland’s railway.”