“With construction gathering pace it is now time to focus on the trains that will deliver the Crossrail service,” said Crossrail chief executive Rob Holden.
The new trains will be 200 metres in length and capable of carrying up to 1,500 passengers each.
Rail minister Theresa Villiers reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Crossrail, which she said is vital to tackling congestion in London.
“The government recognises how important it is to tackle overcrowding and improve reliability on the railways – Crossrail ticks both these boxes, and also has the potential to generate up to £50bn.”
Concerns had been raised that the coalition government would look to significantly cut the cost of the scheme and could seek to slow progress in order to defer payments – but October’s spending review confirmed ministers’ commitment to the project.