THE new Caledonian Sleeper fleet will be built by the same Spanish manufacturer behind the Edinburgh trams.
Basque-based Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF) has been awarded the contract to manufacture 75 Sleeper coaches, which are due to be rolled out in April 2018.
The upgrade is part of a modernisation of the iconic overnight London-Scotland train being undertaken by the new franchise holder, Serco.
The Caledonian Sleeper franchise will be operated independently of the main ScotRail franchise for the first time from April this year.
The new coaches will offer a mix of reclining cradle seats with footrests, pod flatbeds, berths and en-suite berths with built-in toilet and shower facilities, and will include a Brasserie style Club Car for dining.
Ian Smith, the Edinburgh-based designer who was responsible for interior design at Andy Murray's luxurious Cromlix Hotel, has been charged with creating a contemporary style for the new coaches.
Peter Strachan, Serco's Managing Director for the new Caledonian Sleeper said: "This is a major milestone in our plans to deliver an innovative new Caledonian Sleeper service. I'm absolutely delighted we have signed contracts with our partners and look forward to delivering an improved service from 1st April 2015 and from 2018 when we introduce the innovative new coaches into service.
"The new Caledonian Sleeper service will provide a great alternative to other rail and air travel between London and Scotland. After a relaxing night on board, sleeping while on the move, our guests will arrive at their destination first thing in the morning refreshed and ready to go."
The Scottish Government have challenged the new franchise holder to turn the Sleeper into a high calibre tourist attraction on a par with the world's other famous long-distance railways, such as the Orient Express.
The on-board food and drink is supposed to showcase the best of local Scottish produce.
Serco has also awarded the contract for maintenance of the coaches to Alstom UK.
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