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British Rail Class 40

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description British Rail Class 40 Overview

The British Rail Class 40 is a Type 4 Co-Co diesel-electric locomotive introduced by British Railways in 1958. Designed and built by English Electric, the class was originally intended for express passenger services before being largely displaced to freight and secondary routes. A total of 200 units were constructed, and they became familiar sights on the West Coast Main Line and in Northern England. Enthusiasts often referred to these locomotives by the nickname "Whistlers" due to the sound of their engines.

help British Rail Class 40 FAQ

When was the British Rail Class 40 introduced?

The first Class 40 locomotives entered service in 1958 as English Electric Type 4 diesel-electrics. A total of 200 were built between 1958 and 1962, numbered D200 through D399. [Class 40 history](https://www.steamlocomotives.org/locomotives/class-40-english-electric)

What engine and power did a British Rail Class 40 have?

The class used an English Electric 16SVT MkII diesel engine rated at about 2,000 horsepower. Its 1Co-Co1 wheel arrangement spread the locomotive's weight over multiple axles for main-line work.

What trains did British Rail Class 40 locomotives haul?

They were introduced for express passenger work on routes such as the West Coast Main Line, but later moved increasingly to freight and secondary services as more powerful locomotives arrived. Their long working lives made them familiar in both passenger and freight roles.

Why are British Rail Class 40 locomotives called Whistlers?

The nickname comes from the distinctive high-pitched sound of their English Electric engines and exhaust equipment. It is one of the most recognizable enthusiast names associated with the class, alongside the formal British Rail Class 40 designation.

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