Class 80 Profile and Models

Class 80

18100 (after conversion to an AC electric loco). Date unknown. ©Public Domain

Class 80 was the TOPS classification allocated by British Rail to the prototype 25 kV AC electric locomotive, no E1000 (later E2001). This locomotive was built by Metropolitan-Vickers, initially as a prototype gas turbine-electric locomotive, numbered 18100. Its new electric propulsion meant it was rated at 2,500 hp, giving a maximum speed of 90 mph  and weighing 109 long tons. In addition, it was also converted from Co-Co to A1A-A1A wheel arrangement. The locomotive was used to prepare the ground for the 25 kV AC electrification being installed on the West Coast Main Line, including the testing of overhead line equipment and staff training. Once the production locomotives (Class 81 onwards) were in service, E2001 was no longer required. It was put into store at the end of 1961, and lasted for over ten years at various locations. It was officially withdrawn in April 1968 and scrapped in November 1972.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

Type of Locomotive

Electric

Builder

Metropolitan-Vickers

Build Dates

1951 (Originally as Gas Turbine 18100)
Rebuiilt - 1958

Total Built

1

Tractive Effort

40,000 lbf

Power Output

2,500 hp

Top Speed

90 mph

Wheel Configuration

A1A-A1A

Operated By

British Rail

Main Duties

Prototype

In Service Until

1968

Surviving Examples

0

 

OO Gauge (1:76 Scale)

Products awaiting categorisation

Scale Brand Image Construction Type DCC Capability Product Code Product Title Livery
OO Gauge (1:76 Scale) Silver Fox E1000SF Metropolitan-Vickers Electric Locomotive Prototype E1000/E2001 Kit RTR/RTUse/Pre-assembled Not set E1000SF
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Metropolitan-Vickers Electric Locomotive Prototype E1000/E2001 Kit Awaiting Categorisation