Class 156 'Super Sprinter' Profile and Models
156412 at Newport in July 2001. ©Steve Jones
|
Built by Metro-Cammell in a batch of 114, the Class 156s were commissioned by British Rail to replace ageing first-generation DMUs and loco-hauled passenger services. The class were intended for use on longer journeys with fewer stops, so were fitted with single-leaf doors at the ends of each coach. The 156s have seen heavy use over the years on lines across Scotland, Northern England, the Midlands and East Anglia. The whole fleet are still in service today, as of 2021, and look to be in use for the forseeable future. |
|
|
Type of Unit |
2-car Diesel Multiple Unit |
|
Builder |
Metro-Cammell |
|
Build Dates |
1987 to 1989 |
|
Total Built |
114 Sets |
|
Power Output |
285hp per engine (1 Cummins engine in each car) |
|
Top Speed |
75mph |
|
Passenger Capacity |
140 to 163 seated |
|
Operated By |
British Rail Abellio ScotRail Arriva Trains Northern Central Trains East Midlands Railway/ EMT First North Western First ScotRail Greater Anglia Northern Trains/ Northern Rail Regional Railways ScotRail |
|
Main Duties |
Regional Passenger |
|
In Service Until |
Present |
|
Surviving Examples |
All in Service |
OO Gauge (1:76 Scale)
BR blue
BR blue and grey
Strathclyde Passenger Transport
Provincial
Regional Railways
Central Trains
Scotrail (NatEx)
Northern Spirit
Northern Rail (2004 to 2016)
One Anglia
Scotrail (First)
East Midlands Trains
Scotrail (Saltire)
N Gauge
National Express East Anglia
Northern Trains (2016 to Present)
East Midlands Railway
Products awaiting categorisation
| Scale | Brand | Image | Construction Type | DCC Capability | Product Code | Product Title | Livery |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OO Gauge (1:76 Scale) | Lima |
|
RTR/RTUse/Pre-assembled | DCC compatible but no socket. Pancake motor |
L204639 View |
GWR Railcar No.29 in GWR Brown & Cream | GWR chocolate and cream |