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British Rail Class 31

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description British Rail Class 31 Overview

The British Rail Class 31 is a diesel-electric locomotive built by Brush Traction for British Railways, with the first examples entering service in 1957. Originally designated Class 30, the fleet was reclassified after its original Mirrlees engines were replaced with English Electric power units. These Type 2 locomotives handled secondary passenger services, freight trains, engineering work, and other duties across the British railway network.

help British Rail Class 31 FAQ

What was the British Rail Class 31 used for?

The British Rail Class 31 was a diesel-electric locomotive used on British Railways for passenger and freight duties. The first locomotives entered service in 1957, making the class part of Britain's early modern diesel program.

Why was British Rail Class 31 originally called Class 30?

The locomotives were originally designated Class 30 because they used Mirrlees engines. After those engines were replaced with English Electric power units, the fleet was reclassified as Class 31.

Who built the British Rail Class 31?

Brush Traction built the Class 31 locomotives for British Railways. Their design combined a diesel engine with electric transmission, which is why they are described as diesel-electric locomotives.

Is the British Rail Class 31 still used on normal passenger trains?

The class is no longer a standard part of Britain's mainline passenger fleet, but preserved examples remain active on heritage railways and special workings. Its historical service began in 1957 under British Railways.

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