British Rail Class 395 facts for kids

Class 395 Javelin

Class 395 interior

The Class 395 resembles the Japanese 885 Series narrow-gauge EMU also built by Hitachi

The Class 395 is a special type of train in the United Kingdom. It is an electric train that can use two different power systems. These trains are built to run very fast on the High Speed 1 railway line. They are used for everyday travel within Britain. When they started in 2009, they became the fastest domestic trains in the country. They can reach speeds of 225 kilometres per hour (140 mph). The company that runs them is called Southeastern.

What is a Class 395 Train?

The Class 395 is a modern electric train. It is known as a "dual-voltage" train. This means it can get its power from two different sources. It can use 25,000 volts of alternating current (AC) or 750 volts of direct current (DC). This allows it to run on different parts of the railway network.

High Speed Travel in Britain

These trains are designed for high-speed travel. They run mainly on the High Speed 1 line. This line connects London to the Channel Tunnel. It was originally built for international Eurostar trains. The Class 395 trains use this line for domestic services. This means they carry passengers between cities within the UK.

The Javelin Nickname

The Class 395 trains are often called "Javelins." This nickname became popular during the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. The trains played a big role in moving spectators to the Olympic venues. They provided fast and efficient transport.

Who Built the Class 395?

These trains were built by Hitachi Europe. Hitachi is a large company from Japan. They are well-known for making many types of trains. The Class 395 trains are part of Hitachi's "A-Train" family. This means they share some design features with other Hitachi trains around the world. For example, they look similar to the 885 Series trains in Japan.

Train Features and Design

Each Class 395 train is made up of six cars. They are designed to be comfortable for passengers. Each train can carry 354 people in seats. The trains have a sleek, modern look. Their design helps them travel at very high speeds.

Where Do Javelin Trains Run?

The Javelin trains operate services for Southeastern. Their main routes include journeys from London St Pancras International station. They travel to places like Kent and East Sussex. These routes use parts of the High Speed 1 line. They also use older railway lines. This is why the dual-voltage feature is so important. It allows them to switch between different power systems.

Speed on Different Lines

On the High Speed 1 line, the Class 395 can reach its top speed of 225 kilometres per hour (140 mph). This makes them the fastest domestic trains in Britain. When they run on older railway lines, their speed is lower. On these lines, they travel at about 161 kilometres per hour (100 mph).

Images for kids

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  395019 cab interior on display at Railfest 2012

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  Southeastern High Speed Class 395 No. 395018 at St Pancras International

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  The nose cone on a 395 is opened for coupling

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