43096
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So the luggage racks will continue to get a window view while the punters get views of plastic panelling.
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Possible New Avanti Seat Design
- Thread starter superalbs
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RailUK Forums
Ok. I think I was referring to this from AWC:
“The overhaul will focus on onboard facilities, with passengers benefitting from more comfortable seating, improvements to the shop, revamped toilets, better lighting, new interiors, and the installation of at-seat chargers and improved Wi-Fi throughout. Performance will also be improved through new maintenance programmes.”
Given that the 390s are just over half way through their asset life, this is the moment to renew them properly. I am onboard (pardon the pun) putting in the latest comfy seats. I just hope that AWC goes a bit further and makes them quality all round. This is the UK’s premier route after all (ex. HS1). Virgin really let the rolling stock go in last 5 years of their franchise, which is why I was happy they lost it - they didn’t deserve it anymore.
To be fair, in the last 5 years I don't think Virgin knew how long they would still be operating after the 2012 thing.
py_megapixel
Established Member
I wonder what the "revamped toilets" means?
Are they going to get rid of that recording beginning "Oh hi there, I'm the toilet! I just wanted to ask if you'd mind not flushing....."?
I think it it's one of the most divisive things on the modern railway - I've seen opinions ranging from a pointless intrusion to a nice amusing touch, depending on disposition...
Are they going to get rid of that recording beginning "Oh hi there, I'm the toilet! I just wanted to ask if you'd mind not flushing....."?
I think it it's one of the most divisive things on the modern railway - I've seen opinions ranging from a pointless intrusion to a nice amusing touch, depending on disposition...
43096
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They could give it a proper railway twist: "Hi, I'm the talking toilet. Are you using the no. 1 end or the no. 2 end on this visit?"
Meh. They let it go.
To be fair the trains are nearly 20 years old and were in need of a refurb.
Railway style is to charge 50p to use them like at the big stations...
py_megapixel
Established Member
I thought they'd phased out the 50p charge a year or two ago?
Bletchleyite
Veteran Member
I think they're in amazing condition for their age. Compare them to the threadbare seats in the 350/1s for instance.
py_megapixel
Established Member
Or indeed the dirt and grime embedded in the freshly fitted 323 seat covers... I went on one when it was only about a week out of Wolverton and they were already filthy.
TT-ONR-NRN
Veteran Member
I think they're in amazing condition for their age. Compare them to the threadbare seats in the 350/1s for instance.
I concur
I concur
43096
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Didn't Virgin change the seat covers, though? (in the same style as the originals, so you wouldn't notice)
They have aged very well, for comparison look at XC's which despite the change in covers at some point are in bad condition.
Bletchleyite
Veteran Member
I believe they did, yes, but that isn't exactly a symptom of the neglect being alleged above!
I echo that sentiment.
I've seen moans about that on twitter.
They are, you wouldn't think they are 20 years old.
supervc-10
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They're definitely in need of some love, but having not had a full refurb in their 18 years in service, they're actually in decent shape IMO. I don't personally have any issues with the seats, apart from the lack of an armrest on the window seats.
Those new seats look good, but I do worry about the wings digging into shoulders. I'm 6'2, so would possibly be struggling. Which is a shame, as I live in Manchester and (in non-covid times) go down to London quite frequently.
Those new seats look good, but I do worry about the wings digging into shoulders. I'm 6'2, so would possibly be struggling. Which is a shame, as I live in Manchester and (in non-covid times) go down to London quite frequently.
My only niggle with them was the rattly plastic panelling (fixable with a bit of folded paper)
And the damnable plastic wall moulding that seemed perfectly designed to ensure your leg made a nice seal with the side of the train, so the heat from the floor heater just gets trapped and cooks one of your legs. Never really minded the lack of an arm-rest on that side as I'm tall enough to use the windowsill as one instead.
And the damnable plastic wall moulding that seemed perfectly designed to ensure your leg made a nice seal with the side of the train, so the heat from the floor heater just gets trapped and cooks one of your legs. Never really minded the lack of an arm-rest on that side as I'm tall enough to use the windowsill as one instead.
supervc-10
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Only works in the seats with a properly aligned window, though!
It's not been so bad in recent years, it's a case of reporting it. Everyone assumes they know about it. Even complain to the TM!
I find a gentle tap solves the matter. The problem is finding it especially when the carriage if full.
True! Thankfully our internal booking system lets us choose which seats to reserve, so it’s fairly easy to get a decent one
tetudo boy
Member
Um, I once saw one with a tear in the middle of the seat, but most look good.
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