APT-E Gas Turbine Prototype Profile and Models

APT-E Gas Turbine Prototype

The APT-E in the BR RTC sidings in 1972.  ©Public Domain

The APT-E ()Advanced Passenger Train Experimental), was a prototype high-speed tilting multiple unit designed by British Rail. The unit was powered by gas turbines, the only design to do so used by British Rail. The APT-E consisted of two driving power cars (PC1 and 2) and two trailer cars (TC1 and 2). Each power car was equipped with four Rover-built Leyland 2S/350 gas turbines (and a fifth for auxiliary power supplies). The prototype was eventually tried out on the Great Western Main Line, and achieved a new British railway speed record, when, on 10 August 1975 it hit 152.3 mph. The unit was only intended for testing and was never used in ordinary public service, although it did carry office staff and the occasional dignitary on trial runs. It is now based at the NRM's Locomotion museum in Shildon.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

Type of Unit

Gas Turbine Multiple Unit

Builder

British Rail Research Division

Build Dates

1970

Total Built

1 Set

Power Output

3,000 hp (later uprated to 3,300hp)

Top Speed

156 mph

Operated By

British Rail

Main Duties

Prototype testing for a high speed tilting train

In Service Until

1976

Surviving Examples

1 Set

 

OO Gauge (1:76 Scale)