New USB charging device trialled on-board Hull Trains

Hull Trains, operated by First, is trialling an industry-first on board USB charger for mobile devices without the need for customers to carry bulky three-pin plugs.

Produced by the passenger comfort specialists TBM Rail Group of Crewe, the new TBM Charger is a 1.2 amp USB port connected to a traditional 13 amp plug point that allows commuters to charge laptops, mobile phones, tablets, as well as music and gaming devices. International visitors will also be able to use the port as it is standard across most countries in the world.

“Being an open access operator means that we can be more innovative or perhaps quicker to market with an idea”

Passengers are already noticing the benefits of staying connected whilst travelling for business without the worry of losing work. Neil Smith, Sales Director at TBM Rail Group explains: “Commuting is actually an extension of the working day for many people.  This is a simple idea that makes life easy for the travelling public.”

Will Dunnett, Hull Trains Managing Director said: “Our focus at Hull Trains is on exceeding passengers’ expectations and innovation is a key part of this.

“Being an open access operator means that we can be more innovative or perhaps quicker to market with an idea. Anything that improves rail travel for our passengers and makes their journey experience an exceptional one is something that we’re always eager to explore.”

Hull Trains are trailing the chargers in one of their first-class carriages and if the USB chargers prove popular, the company aims to roll-out the devices across all 20 of its carriages and hopes that the rest of the industry will follow suit.