British Railways initially ordered ten Class 40 locomotives, known as “English Electric Type 4s,” as evaluation prototypes to replace steam engines on passenger services. The prototypes' success led to the production of 190 more units.
Initially, concerns arose about their power for express services, prompting the inclusion of gangways on the first 145 units to allow multiple running. The early units featured disk route identification, which later transitioned to a modern headcode system. With more powerful locomotives and railway electrification, Class 40s were phased out, primarily serving freight duties. Withdrawals started in 1976, with most retired in the early 1980s.
Locomotive D232, built in 1959, was named ‘Empress of Canada’ in 1961 and renumbered 40032 in 1973. It was retired in 1982 and scrapped at Swindon Locomotive Works.
Includes:
- 1× Locomotive Junior
Technical Specification:
- Gauge – OO
- Minimum Curve – Radius 2
- Length – 60cm
- Motor – 5 Pole Skew Wound
- Operator/Livery – BR
