British Rail Class 378 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 378 "Capitalstar" |
|
|---|---|
| In service | January 2009 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier Transportation |
| Family name | Electrostar |
| Number built | 54 trainsets (on order) |
| Formation | 4 cars per trainset |
| Operator(s) | London Overground |
| Line(s) served | North London line East London line West London line Watford DC line |
| Specifications | |
| Electric system(s) | Class 378/0: 25 kV AC/750 V DC Class 378/1: 750 V DC |
| Track gauge | Standard gauge |
The Class 378 Capitalstar is a special type of electric multiple unit train. These trains were made for the new London Overground network in London, England. They are part of the Electrostar family of trains, which means they share some design features with other trains like the Class 376.
The Class 378 trains have some important differences from other Electrostar trains. For example, they have special seating arrangements. This design helps them carry many passengers, which is important for busy London Overground routes. These trains were built by a company called Bombardier Transportation. They started running in January 2009.
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What is an Electric Multiple Unit?
An electric multiple unit (EMU) is a type of train that uses electricity for power. Each car in an EMU train can have its own motors. This means the train does not need a separate engine car. EMUs are very common for passenger services. They are often used for commuter trains and subway systems.
Meet the Capitalstar Trains
The Class 378 Capitalstar trains are designed for city travel. They are built to handle a lot of people. Each train is made up of four connected cars. These cars work together as one unit.
Why the Class 378 is Special
The Class 378 trains have a unique seating style. Most trains have seats that face forward or backward. But the Class 378 has longitudinal seating. This means the seats run along the sides of the train, facing the aisle. This design is similar to what you might see on the London Underground. It helps create more standing room. This is very useful during busy times when many people are traveling.
Powering the Trains
These trains use electricity to move. They can get power in two ways:
- Some Class 378 trains (called Class 378/0) can use 25,000 volts of AC electricity. They can also use 750 volts of DC electricity. This allows them to run on different types of railway lines.
- Other Class 378 trains (called Class 378/1) only use 750 volts of DC electricity.
This flexibility helps them operate across the varied London Overground network.
Where the Capitalstar Trains Run
The Class 378 trains serve several important lines in London. These lines are part of the London Overground network. They help people travel across the city.
- North London line: This line connects many areas in North and West London.
- East London line: This line runs through East and South London.
- West London line: This line connects West London with other parts of the city.
- Watford DC line: This line goes north from London towards Watford.
These trains help thousands of commuters and students get around London every day.
Images for kids
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Class 378 No. 378146 approaching Hoxton, note City of London skyline in background
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Class 378 No. 378010 stands at Richmond on a North London line service
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London Overground Class 378/1
