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British Rail Class 357 facts for kids

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British Rail Class 357 "Electrostar"
357036 at Southend Central.jpg
Class 357, no. 357036, at Southend Central on 29th March 2003. This unit is painted in c2c livery. This class operate all c2c passenger services.
In service 2000 - Current
Manufacturer ADtranz Derby (now Bombardier)
Family name Electrostar
Number built 74 trainsets
Formation 4 cars per trainset
Capacity 282 seats
Operator(s) c2c
Specifications
Car length 20.75 m
Width 2.80 m
Height 3.78 m
Maximum speed 100 mph (161 km/h)
Weight 157.6 t
Power output 3x560 = 1680 kW
Electric system(s) 25 kV AC Overhead
Track gauge 1,435 mm

The Class 357 "Electrostar" is a type of electric train used in Britain. These trains were built by a company called ADtranz (which is now part of Bombardier Transportation). They were made between 1999 and 2003.

These trains are part of the "Electrostar" family. This family includes other train types like the Classes 375, 376, 377, and 378. The Electrostar is the most common type of electric train built in Britain since the railways became private.

The Class 357 trains were built for a company called LTS Rail. This company is now known as c2c. These trains cost about £350 million to build. They are used for passenger services on the c2c network.



What is an Electrostar Train?

The Class 357 is an electric multiple unit (EMU). This means it's a train that gets its power from electricity. It also means the train is made of several connected cars that can run together. Each car has its own motors.

These trains use alternating current (AC) electricity. They get their power from overhead lines. This is a common way for electric trains to get power.

Key Features of the Class 357

These trains are designed for passenger comfort and efficiency. They have a top speed of 100 miles per hour (161 km/h). Each train is made up of four cars.

A single train can carry 282 seated passengers. This makes them good for busy routes. The trains are also quite long, with each car being over 20 meters.

How Many Were Built?

A total of 74 Class 357 train sets were built. They have been in service since the year 2000. They continue to operate today.

Where Do They Run?

The Class 357 trains are mainly used by the c2c railway company. They operate services from Fenchurch Street in London. They travel to places like Southend and other towns in Essex.

These trains are a key part of daily travel for many commuters. They help people get to and from work and school.

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