Class 108 Profile and Models

Class 108

BX37S at Buxton. Date unknown. ©Phil Richards

The British Rail Class 108 diesel multiple units were built by BR Derby from 1958 to 1961, with a final production quantity of 333 vehicles. The 108 was formed as a 2-, 3-, or 4-car unit. Its aluminium body led the type to be classed as a lightweight unit. These units stayed in regular service until 1990, when they began to be withdrawn from traffic. They were replaced on regional services by the new Sprinter derivative units, or by Turbo units on services around London. The final units lasted in traffic until October 1993, although many saw further use in departmental service, as sandite or route-learner units. Good condition on withdrawal and lack of asbestos have ensured that many of this class are now used on preserved railway lines.

(Information provided via Wikipedia)

Type of Unit

1st Generation Diesel Multiple Units

Builder

Derby Works

Build Dates

1958 to 1961

Total Built

32 Sets (333 total cars)

Coaches Per Unit

2, 3 or 4 Cars

Power Output

150bhp per engine (2 per unit)

Top Speed

70 mph

Passenger Capacity

Up to 250

Operated By

British Rail

Main Duties

Local Passenger

In Service Until

1993

Surviving Examples

52 individual cars preserved