British Rail Class 401

class of British 2-car suburban electric multiple unit

The Southern Railway (SR) gave the designation 2Bil to the DC third rail electric multiple units built during the 1930s to work long-distance semi-fast services on the newly electrified lines from London to Eastbourne, Portsmouth and Reading. This type of unit survived long enough in British Rail ownership to be allocated TOPS Class 401.

British Rail Class 401
In service1935-1969
ManufacturerSR Eastleigh, frames from Lancing
Formationpower car + driving trailer
Operator(s)British Rail
Specifications
Maximum speed75mph 121km/h
WeightTotal - 74 tons 15cwt
Prime mover(s)2 x 275 hp traction motors
total 550 hp (410 kW)
Braking system(s)Air