Suppliers from North of England help transform TPE’s Nova 1 train seating
24th August 2026
Businesses from across the North are helping transform one of TransPennine Express’s fleet of trains with new distinctive seat covers.
The refurbishment will see all 19 Nova 1 trains receive the new seating between July and the end of the year.
Inspired by the shard shapes featured in TPE’s logo and the exterior livery of the Nova 1 trains, the design complements the existing interiors while giving the fleet a fresh new look, while also supporting passenger comfort.
Sheffield-based Diamond Group is supplying the new seat covers and cushions, while Mirfield textile manufacturer Camira has been involved with the colour selection and sampling process.
Delivered in partnership with Hitachi Rail, the seating was designed by Derby-based industrial designers David Gordon and Andy Sykes.
Accessibility was a key consideration throughout the design process, alongside durability, high contrast colours have been used to help visually impaired passengers.
Paul Staples, Engineering, Safety and Sustainability Director at TPE, said: “I am really pleased that we are starting to deploy this fresh new look for everyone travelling with us on our Nova 1 trains.
"We have worked with Hitachi and a number of businesses local to our network so this project not only makes the trains look better for our customers but supports the communities that we serve.
"We will be looking for opportunities for similar investments in our other fleets in the future but while we look for those opportunities we are working with our suppliers to increase our levels of cleaning and replacement of the current seat cover designs.”
Jenny Dempsey, Managing Director of Diamond Rail Services, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be supporting TransPennine Express with this refurbishment programme.
“As a Sheffield-based business, it’s especially rewarding to work with a train operator that serves our local community. The programme has enabled us to create new jobs and invest in growing our team, demonstrating the value of keeping investment within the local supply chain.
"Working alongside TPE, Hitachi Rail and fellow Yorkshire business Camira has been a fantastic example of what can be achieved when regional expertise comes together.”
