British Rail Class 318 facts for kids

The British Rail Class 318 is a special type of electric multiple unit (EMU) train. An EMU is a train made of several cars that all have their own electric motors, so they don't need a separate engine. These trains run only in the Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) area in West Central Scotland.

The Class 318 trains started running on 29 September 1986. They were introduced when the Ayrshire Coast Line between Glasgow Central and Ayr/Ardrossan was updated with alternating current (AC) overhead lines. This means the trains get their power from electric wires above the tracks. In January 1987, their use was extended to Largs. These trains were also used on the Inverclyde Line and sometimes on the Cathcart Circle Lines, including routes to Neilston and Newton.

What is a Class 318 Train?

The Class 318 is an electric train designed to carry passengers. It's known for being reliable and efficient.

• Electric Power: Unlike diesel trains, the Class 318 runs on electricity. It gets its power from overhead wires that carry 25,000 volts of alternating current. This makes them quieter and produces no exhaust fumes.
• Train Formation: Each Class 318 train is made up of three connected cars. This setup is called a "trainset."
• Manufacturer: These trains were built by BREL (British Rail Engineering Limited), a company known for making many British trains.
• Speed: The Class 318 can travel at a maximum speed of 90 miles per hour (145 km/h).

Where Do Class 318 Trains Operate?

These trains are a familiar sight in the West Central Scotland region. They are a key part of the local train network.

• Main Routes: Their primary routes include the Ayrshire Coast Line, connecting Glasgow Central to towns like Ayr, Ardrossan, and Largs.
• Other Lines: They also serve parts of the Inverclyde Line and occasionally the Cathcart Circle Lines.
• Operator: The Class 318 trains are operated by ScotRail, providing essential transport services for daily commuters and travelers.

History and Refurbishment

The Class 318 trains have been in service for many years, showing their durability. Over time, some trains have been updated to keep them modern and comfortable.

• Introduction: They were first introduced in 1986 to support the new electric lines.
• Updates: Some trains have received updates, including new driver's cabs and passenger information systems (PIS) to make journeys better for everyone. You can often see the difference between older and newer versions of the trains.

Images for kids

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  Class 318 253 at Fairlie in the first month of operation

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  Class 318 in original orange and black Strathclyde Partnership for Transport livery

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  Front view of 318254 at Largs station

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  318267 in SPT livery with original front end at Gourock in July 2006

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  318257 with revised front end at Glasgow Central Low Level in 2011

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  Two Class 318s stand at Partick wearing both pre and post-refurbishment liveries in 2017.