British Rail Class 71

class of 24 Bo′Bo′ 2300 hp DC electric locomotives


The British Rail Class 71 was an electric locomotive used on the Southern Region of British Railways. Unlike most other Southern Region electric locomotives (such as the class 73s & 74s) they could not operate away from the electrified (750 V DC third rail) system.

British Rail Class 71/2
E5001 at Doncaster Works.
Type and origin
Power typeElectric
BuilderBritish RailwaysDoncaster Works
Build date1958–1960
Total produced24
Specifications
Configuration:
 • WhyteBo-Bo
 • UICBo'Bo'
Gauge4 ft 8 12 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge
Wheel diameter4 ft 0 in (1.219 m)
Loco weight77.00 long tons (78.24 t)
Electric system/s660–750 V DC
Current pickup(s)Third Rail (mainline)
Pantograph (sidings)
Traction motorsEnglish Electric 532, 4 off
Train heatingElectric Train Heating
Train brakesDual Vacuum and Air
Performance figures
Top speed90 mph (145 km/h)
Power outputOne-hour: 2,700 hp (2,010 kW)
Continuous: 2,300 hp (1,720 kW)
Tractive effort43,800 lbf (195,000 N)
Brakeforce68 long tons-force (678 kN)
Career
Railroad(s)British Railways
NumberE5000–E5023; later E5001–E5024; later 71001–71014
Axle load classRoute availability 6
Disposition10 rebuilt to class 74, 13 scrapped, 1 preserved