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Sprinter (train) facts for kids

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This page is about the family of diesel multiple unit trains in widespread service in the United Kingdom. For the diesel multiple units built by Goninan for use by V/Line in Victoria, Australia, see V/Line Sprinter.
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Sprinter (train)
Class 155 303.jpg
In service 1984-present
Family name Sprinter
Number built 556 trainsets
Operator(s)
Specifications
Maximum speed 75 mph (121 km/h) (Class 150, 153, 155, 156)
90 mph (140 km/h) (Class 158, 159)
Track gauge 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) standard gauge (UK trains)
1,000 mm (3 ft 3 3⁄8 in) metre gauge (Thailand trains)

Sprinter trains are a group of special trains used on railways in the United Kingdom. These trains run on diesel fuel and can carry many passengers. They are known as diesel multiple units, which means each train has its own engine and can run by itself.

These trains were built in the 1980s and early 1990s. Companies like BREL, Metro Cammell, and Leyland helped build them. All Sprinter trains use a powerful Cummins engine and a Voith hydraulic system to help them move. You can find Sprinter trains almost everywhere in the UK. They travel on quiet countryside routes and also on busy city lines.



What Makes a Sprinter Train?

Sprinter trains are a family of trains, meaning they share similar designs and parts. They are all powered by diesel engines. This allows them to travel on railway lines that do not have electric power cables overhead.

How Fast Do They Go?

Different types of Sprinter trains have different top speeds. Some, like the Class 150, 153, 155, and 156, can reach speeds of about 75 miles per hour (121 km/h). Faster versions, such as the Class 158 and 159, can go up to 90 miles per hour (145 km/h).

Where Do Sprinter Trains Operate?

Sprinter trains are used by many different train companies across the UK. They serve many parts of England, Scotland, and Wales. They are used for both short local journeys and longer trips between cities. You might see them carrying commuters to work or taking people on holiday.

Sprinters Around the World

While most Sprinter trains are in the UK, some have also been used in other countries. For example, some Sprinter trains are used by the State Railway of Thailand. This shows how useful and reliable these trains are.

Images for kids

  • 151001 Matlock

    Matlock

  • Worle -GWR 150232 Paignton to Cardiff

    Class 150/2

  • Tondu railway station MMB 10 150252

    Class 150/2

  • 153306 at Ipswich

    Class 153

  • 155347 C Leeds

    Class 155

  • 156408 Peterborough

    Class 156

  • South West Trains 158786 at Bristol Temple Meads 03

    Class 158 Express Sprinter in South West Trains Livery at Bristol Temple Meads, with a service to London Waterloo

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