British Rail Class 450
This article concerns the electric multiple unit used by South Western Railway. For the diesel multiple unit used by Northern Ireland Railways see NIR Class 450
| British Rail Class 450 Desiro | |
|---|---|
 South Western Railway Class 450 No. 450111 at Basingstoke | |
| In service | 5 October 2003 – present |
| Manufacturer | Siemens AG |
| Family name | Desiro |
| Constructed | 2002–2006 |
| 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 | South Western Railway |
| 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 |
| Voltage | 750 V DC |
| Braking system(s) | Air, regenerative |
The British Rail Class 450 third rail DC EMU (or 4Des) began service during 2003. They are a part of the Siemens Desiro modular train family and are more popularly known as the 'Blue Desiro'. In standing with requirements of all new rolling stock for the South East region, provision has been made for future conversion to 25 kV AC overhead supply or dual voltage, although at present no trains have been fitted with a pantograph. Used for outer suburban services, the Class 450 is fitted with Standard and First accommodation. The unit has a maximum speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).
British Rail Class 450 Media
A Class 450 unit between two Class 421s at Clapham Junction depot in February 2005, less than three months before the latter were withdrawn.
South West Trains Class 450 unit at Camberley in 2011
South West Trains Class 450 unit near Clapham Junction in 2012
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