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British Rail Class 87

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Locomotive UK Electric Passenger West Coast British Rail

description British Rail Class 87 Overview

The British Rail Class 87 is an electric locomotive operated by British Rail for express passenger services. Introduced in the early 1970s, the class was specifically developed to haul trains on the electrified West Coast Main Line connecting London Euston and Glasgow Central. They were capable of reaching speeds up to 110 mph, significantly reducing journey times on the route. Following privatization, the fleet was eventually displaced by newer rolling stock.

help British Rail Class 87 FAQ

What railway route was the British Rail Class 87 designed for?

The Class 87 was developed for express services on the electrified West Coast Main Line. It became associated with long-distance trains running from London Euston toward Glasgow Central.

When was the British Rail Class 87 introduced?

The first Class 87 locomotives entered service in 1973, with the fleet built through the mid-1970s. British Rail Engineering Limited produced the class at Crewe Works.

How many British Rail Class 87 locomotives were built?

British Rail built 36 Class 87 locomotives. Their relatively small fleet size reflects their specialized role on the West Coast Main Line.

What locomotive replaced the Class 87 on many West Coast services?

Virgin Trains West Coast progressively replaced Class 87 traction with Class 390 Pendolino electric multiple units. The Pendolinos offered tilting capability for faster running on the West Coast Main Line.

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