Under the major refurbishment program, the entire fleet of KCR East Rail had been refurbished in 2000, bringing major improvements in terms of capacity, safety, reliability and the travelling environment.

Extra Capacity for future growth

Four more doors have been added per carriage, helps to speed up the boarding & alighting time.

The intermediate driving cabs from some carriages have been removed to provide more space for passengers. Together with the revised seating layout, the capacity of each train has been increased by 15%.

Relax in a comfortable environment

• Apart from more streamlined appearance, a modern interior design has been adopted which offers better air-conditioning and increased lighting.

• All gangway doors (except first class) have been removed to facilitate passage between cars and reduce nuisance caused to other passengers. Although, passengers can access the First Class compartment by validate their Octopus card on board.

• Half of the existing windows have been replaced by hopper windows, capable of being opened by a few inches to allow fresh air to circulate when required.

• Plasma display screens are also installed onboard the 29 sets of refurbished trains, providing a multi-media presentation of real-time news and financial programs.

Disabled passengers facilities

• Refurbished train has been equipped with various facilities specially designed for the disable.
  
• Brightly coloured and tactile handrails have been designed for passengers who have impaired eyesight.
  
• Wheelchair reserved spaces are located in the 3rd, 6th and 9th compartment.
  
• On board electronic message boards have been introduced for passengers who have hearing difficulties.

Refurbished train - safe & reliable

Key components of the train such as the traction, door equipment and wheel slide systems have been replaced with safer and more reliable models, thus minimising the rate of malfunctioning. Passengers can be assured of a safe trip completed within a reliable journey time.

Emergency evacuate ladder locates on the first and seventh carriage (southbound).