British Rail Class 450 facts for kids
The British Rail Class 450 is a type of electric multiple unit (EMU) train. It started service in 2003. These trains are part of the Siemens Desiro family. They are often called the 'Blue Desiro' because of their design. Class 450 trains are used for journeys outside big cities. They run mainly on the South West Trains network.
Quick facts for kids British Rail Class 450 Desiro |
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450083 at Waterloo
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| In service | 2003– |
| Manufacturer | Siemens AG |
| Family name | Desiro |
| Constructed | 2001–2006 |
| Entered service | 2003–2006 |
| Number built | 127 trainsets |
| Formation | 4 cars per trainset |
| Fleet numbers | 450001–450042 450071–450127 450543–450570 |
| Capacity | 450/0 24 first class, 240 standard class per trainset - 450/5 240 standard class per trainset |
| Operator(s) | South West Trains |
| Specifications | |
| Car body construction | Aluminium |
| Car length | 20.4 m (67 ft) |
| Width | 2.796 m (9.17 ft) |
| Doors | Plug sliding 1/4 and 3/4 position |
| Articulated sections | Inter-unit and inter-vehicle flexible diaphragm |
| Maximum speed | 100 mph (160 km/h) |
| Weight | Total: 170 tonnes |
| Power supply | Third rail |
| Electric system(s) | 750V DC |
| Braking system(s) | Air, regenerative |
Contents
What is the Class 450 Desiro?
The British Rail Class 450 is an electric multiple unit (EMU). This means it's a train made of several carriages that are permanently joined together. Each carriage has its own electric motors. This allows the train to be driven from either end. The Class 450 trains get their power from a third rail. This is an extra rail on the track that carries electricity.
How the Class 450 Gets Power
These trains use a 750V DC power supply. This electricity comes from the third rail system. The Class 450 trains were built so they could be changed later. They could be updated to use AC power from overhead lines. This would involve adding a device called a pantograph to the roof. A pantograph collects electricity from overhead wires. However, no Class 450 trains have been changed this way yet.
Key Features of the Class 450
The Class 450 trains are part of the Siemens Desiro family. This means they share a similar design with other modern trains. Each Class 450 train is made up of four carriages. They can reach a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).
The trains offer both Standard and First Class seating. This makes them suitable for different types of passengers. The Class 450 is designed for outer suburban services. This means they travel between larger towns and cities and their surrounding areas.
Images for kids
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South West Trains Siemens Class 450/0 Desiro EMUs No. 450075 and 450109 at Clapham Junction.
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South West Trains Class 450 No. 450112 at London Waterloo.
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The original inside look of the Standard Class area on a Class 450 train.
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The original inside look of the First Class area on a Class 450 train.
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The inside of the updated First Class cabin, showing the leather seats.
