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 service | 1935-1969 |
| Manufacturer | SR Eastleigh, frames from Lancing |
| Formation | power car + driving trailer |
| Operator(s) | British Rail |
| Specifications | |
| Maximum speed | 75mph 121km/h |
| Weight | Total - 74 tons 15cwt |
| Prime mover(s) | 2 x 275 hp traction motors total 550 hp (410 kW) |
| Braking system(s) | Air |
