Class 312 Profile and Models
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. |
|
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 | 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 |