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British Rail Class 800
The cutting-edge and highly advanced Class 800 was ordered in 2012 as part of the government's £5.7 billion Intercity Express Programme. Built by Hitachi Rail between 2014 and 2018, with initial assembly in Japan followed by final construction at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham, a substantial fleet of 80 units was produced in 5-car and 9-car formations. Designed to comprehensively replace the aging InterCity 125 and 225 fleets, these sleek, high-speed trains completely revolutionized long-distance travel on the Great Western and East Coast Main Lines.
Engineered with pioneering bi-mode technology, these lightweight aluminum trainsets can draw power from 25kV overhead electric lines or seamlessly switch under load to underfloor MTU diesel generator units when running onto un-electrified routes. Capable of hitting 125 mph in daily service, they drastically cut journey times, vastly increased seating capacity, and introduced modern comforts like air conditioning, plug sockets, and electronic seat reservation systems. Representing the flagship standard of modern British intercity travel, the entire fleet remains in intensive, frontline service today, effortlessly linking London to destinations across Wales, the West Country, the North of England, and Scotland.
This gallery pays homage to one the most technologically flexible, reliable, and transformative modern high-speed multiple unit ever to grace British rails!
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