British Rail Class 80

Class 80 was the TOPS classification allocated by British Rail to the prototype 25 kV AC electric locomotive. This locomotive was built by Metropolitan-Vickers, initially as a prototype Gas turbine-electric locomotive, numbered 18100. British Rail allocated the number E1000 (and later E2001) to the locomotive following its conversion from gas turbine propulsion.

British Rail Class 80
Type and origin Power type Electric Builder Metropolitan-Vickers Build date 1951; rebuilt 1958
Specifications Configuration: ​  • Whyte A1A-A1A  • UIC (A1A)'(A1A)' Gauge 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge Wheel diameter 3 ft 8 in (1.12 m) Length 56 ft 6 in (17.22 m) Width 8 ft 8+1⁄4 in (2.65 m) Height 12 ft 10 in (3.91 m) Loco weight 109 long tons (110.7 t) Electric system/s 25 kV AC Current pickup(s) Stone-Faiveley ‘V’-type pantograph, 1 off Traction motors Metropolitan-Vickers, 4 off Train heating Electric Train Heating Train brakes Vacuum
Performance figures Top speed 90 mph (145 km/h) Tractive effort 40,000 lbf (178,000 N)
Career Railroad(s) British Rail Number E1000; E2001 from 1959 Axle load class Route availability Retired April 1968 Disposition Sold for scrap to J. Cashmore, Great Bridge, 1973