Class 769 'Flex' Profile and Models

Class 769 'Flex'

769008 at Heath High Level in July 2020. ©Gareth James

The British Rail Class 769 Flex is a class of bi-mode multiple unit (BMU) converted by Brush Traction, and running in service with Northern Trains. The train is a conversion of the existing Class 319 electric multiple unit (EMU), a conventional unit type which had become surplus to requirements during the 2010s.[ The conversion process is carried out by a partnership between the rolling stock leasing company Porterbrook and train manufacturer Brush Traction. The conversion principally involves the addition of a pair of MAN diesel engines (one under each driving trailer vehicle), the output of which is fed into ABB-provided alternators to power the existing electric traction systems. According to Porterbrook, the Class 769's performance under diesel power is either equal or superior to that of a Class 150 Sprinter diesel multiple unit (DMU), and the switchover between EMU and DMU modes can be carried out while the train is in motion. Currently eight examples are operated by Northern, with previous GWR and TFW operated examples all withdrawn.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

Type of Unit

Bi-Mode 25 kV AC Overhead/ 750V DC 3rd-Rail with 4x GEC diesel engines

Builder

BREL York (as Class 319)
Converted to Class 769 by Brush Traction

Build Dates

1987 to 1990 (as Class 319)
Converted to Class 769 between 2017 and 2021

Total Built

36 sets

Coaches Per Unit

4

Power Output

2,800hp

Top Speed

100mph

Operated By

Great Western Railway
Northern Trains
Transport for Wales

Main Duties

Regional Passenger

In Service Until

Present

Surviving Examples

8 sets in service

 

N Gauge