British Rail Class 220 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 220 Voyager |
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A CrossCountry Voyager at Birmingham New Street on 5 April 2008
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Typical Standard Class interior of a Voyager coach
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| In service | 2001— |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier Transportation |
| Family name | Voyager |
| Number built | 34 trainsets |
| Number in service | 34 trainsets |
| Formation | 4 cars per trainset |
| Capacity | 162 standard class, 26 first class |
| Operator(s) | CrossCountry |
| Specifications | |
| Width | 2.73 m (8 ft 11 in) |
| Articulated sections | Flexible diaphragm (within unit only) |
| Maximum speed | 125 mph (200 km/h) |
| Weight | 185.6 t (182.7 long tons; 204.6 short tons) per trainset |
| Traction system | DEMU |
| Prime mover(s) | Cummins QSK19 |
| Power output | 3,000 hp (2,200 kW) |
| Transmission | Voith final drive |
| Braking system(s) | Rheostatic |
| Safety system(s) | AWS, TPWS |
| Coupling system | Dellner |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) |
The Class 220 Voyager is a special type of train used in the United Kingdom. It's a diesel-electric multiple unit, which means it carries its own engines and doesn't need overhead electric lines. These trains are known for being fast and comfortable.
They were built by a company called Bombardier Transportation. The first trains started running on 5 June 2001. Originally, they were used by Virgin Trains. Now, they are operated by CrossCountry.
Voyager trains were brought in to replace older trains. These included the InterCity 125 and British Rail Class 47 fleets. The Class 220 trains offer a more modern travel experience.
Contents
What Makes the Voyager Special?
The Class 220 Voyager trains have many cool features. They are designed for long journeys across the country.
Speed and Power
These trains can travel very fast. Their top speed is 125 mph (200 km/h). This makes them a type of high-speed train. Each train has powerful Cummins QSK19 engines. These engines produce 3,000 hp (2,200 kW) of power.
Comfort for Passengers
Voyager trains are fully air-conditioned. This keeps passengers cool in summer and warm in winter. They also have powered doors, which open and close automatically. Inside, there are comfortable seats for both standard and first-class passengers.
Inside the Train
A typical Class 220 train has four cars. It can carry 162 standard class passengers. There are also 26 first-class seats. The seats are designed for comfort on longer trips. You can see what the inside looks like in the infobox image.
How They Work
The Class 220 is a diesel-electric train. This means it uses diesel engines to create electricity. This electricity then powers the motors that turn the wheels.
Braking System
These trains use a special type of brake called rheostatic brakes. This system uses the electric motors to slow the train down. It's a very effective way to stop a fast-moving train safely.
Safety Features
Safety is very important on trains. Voyagers have systems like AWS and TPWS. These systems help the driver stay safe. They also help prevent accidents on the tracks.
Who Operates the Voyagers?
Today, all Class 220 Voyager trains are operated by CrossCountry. They use these trains for routes that connect many different cities across Britain. This includes long journeys from Scotland to the South West of England.
Connecting Cities
The Voyager trains play a big role in connecting different parts of the UK. They help people travel for work, school, or holidays. Their speed and comfort make them a popular choice for many travellers.
Images for kids
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Classes 220 (left) and 221 (right) at Durham, showing the differing bogie designs
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The interior of First Class aboard a Class 220
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220004 New Dawn at Elford in June 2001.
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CrossCountry Class 220 unit 220032 on a curve at Langstone Rock near Dawlish.
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Named unit Voyager 20 stands at Totnes station on 7 November 2021.
