The first part of ScotRail’s new fleet of 26 upgraded High Speed Trains (HST) has arrived in Scotland.

The train crossed the border from Doncaster earlier this month en route for Haymarket depot in Edinburgh. ScotRail

HST project manager Chris Tait described the trains as “iconic” and said they will help to build “the best railway Scotland’s ever had.”

In total, 17 five-car trains and nine four-car trains will be used on InterCity services between Scotland’s seven cities, once they have undergone an extensive refurbishment, as well as a modification to ensure that they meet disability guidelines — enabling them to stay in use beyond 2020.

Once crew training is complete, the first HST will enter service between Aberdeen and Edinburgh in the coming weeks.

The HSTs have more seats and luggage space than ScotRail’s existing fleet, and they will allow for an “enhanced food and drink service”, according to the rail operator, with a new cafe area on board (in addition to the usual trolley service).

Transport Scotland’s rolling-stock manager, George Davidson, said: “This is an important milestone in our efforts to improve capacity on our rail services, alongside an enhanced passenger experience.

“It’s great to see the first of these trains arrive in Scotland, and I’m sure they will make a great addition to the ScotRail fleet.”