Class 312 Profile and Models

Class 312

312718 at Kirby Cross in March 2004. ©Phil Scott

The British Rail Class 312 alternating current (AC) electric multiple units (EMUs) were built between 1975 and 1978 for use on outer-suburban passenger services. It was the last class of multiple unit to be constructed with the British Rail Mark 2 bodyshell, as well as the last class of multiple unit to be built with slam doors in Britain. These features contributed to their relatively early withdrawal at 25–28 years old, compared with a typical EMU life expectancy of 30–40 years. As built, the 312/0 fleet were used on the newly electrified Great Northern outer suburban services from London King's Cross to Royston. The 312/1s were built for Great Eastern line services from London Liverpool Street. The four 312/2 units were mainly used to enhance local services between Birmingham New Street and Birmingham International, but were also used on other services in the West Midlands. Later in their lifespan, the units were used on the Great Eastern Mainline and London, Tilbury & Southend Line. After privatisation they were transferred to Central Trains, First Great Eastern and c2c.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

Type of Unit

Electric Multiple Unit - 6.25kV or 25kV 50Hz AC Overhead

Builder

British Rail Engineering Limited

Build Dates

1975 to 1978

Total Built

49 sets

Coaches Per Unit

4-car

Power Output

1,080hp

Top Speed

75 to 90 mph

Passenger Capacity

322 seats

Operated By

British Rail
c2c
Central Trains
First Great Eastern

Main Duties

Suburban Passenger

In Service Until

2004

Surviving Examples

2 individual cars

 

Products awaiting categorisation

Scale Brand Image Construction Type DCC Capability Product Code Product Title Livery
OO Gauge (1:76 Scale) Southern Pride SP-EM502 Class 312 EMU kit - resin bodies and brass sides for DTC, DTS, MBS and TS vehicles RTR/RTUse/Pre-assembled Not set SP-EM502
View
Class 312 EMU kit - resin bodies and brass sides for DTC, DTS, MBS and TS vehicles Awaiting Categorisation