description LNER A4 Class (Mallard) Overview
The LNER A4 is a class of streamlined 4-6-2 Pacific steam locomotives designed by Nigel Gresley for the London and North Eastern Railway. Introduced in 1935, they were built for high-speed passenger services, notably including the "Silver Jubilee" train. The class is best known for locomotive No. 4468 "Mallard," which set the official world speed record for steam locomotives at 126 mph in 1938.
The aerodynamic wedge-shaped casing improved efficiency at high speeds.
insights Ranking position
LNER A4 Class (Mallard) ranks #2 of 397 in the Locomotive ranking, behind Union Pacific Big Boy (UP 4000), ahead of Union Pacific 4014 (Big Boy, restored).
help LNER A4 Class (Mallard) FAQ
What is the world speed record held by the LNER A4 Mallard?
The Mallard set the official world speed record for steam locomotives on July 3, 1938, reaching 126 miles per hour. Designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, the record was achieved on a slight downward grade near Grantham.
Who designed the LNER A4 Class locomotives?
The A4 Class was designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, the Chief Mechanical Engineer of the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER). Introduced in 1935, their streamlined design was originally intended to reduce smoke drift at high speeds.
Why were the LNER A4 locomotives streamlined?
The streamlined casing was introduced to enhance the high-speed passenger services on the LNER, such as the "Silver Jubilee" train. While it provided some aerodynamic benefit, the primary practical reason was to deflect smoke away from the driver's line of sight at high speeds.
How many LNER A4 Class locomotives were built?
A total of 35 A4 Class locomotives were built for the LNER between 1935 and 1938. Several of them, including the Mallard and Union of South Africa, have survived into preservation.
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