Class 769 'Flex' Profile and Models
769008 at Heath High Level in July 2020. ©Gareth James
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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 Currently eight examples are operated by Northern, with previous GWR and TFW operated examples all withdrawn. |
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Type of Unit |
Bi-Mode 25 kV AC Overhead/ 750V DC 3rd-Rail with 4x GEC diesel engines |
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Builder |
BREL York (as Class 319) Converted to Class 769 by Brush Traction |
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Build Dates |
1987 to 1990 (as Class 319) Converted to Class 769 between 2017 and 2021 |
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Total Built |
36 sets |
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Coaches Per Unit |
4 |
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Power Output |
2,800hp |
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Top Speed |
100mph |
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Operated By |
Great Western Railway Northern Trains Transport for Wales |
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Main Duties |
Regional Passenger |
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In Service Until |
Present |
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Surviving Examples |
8 sets in service |
Awaiting Categorisation