Description
The Class 57 is a re-engineered locomotive, rebuilt by Brush Traction at Loughborough from redundant Class 47 locomotives. The locomotives are fitted with a refurbished EMD engine and a reconditioned alternator, improving reliability and performance. Three variants exist, one for freight and two for passenger operations. At £500,000 it was about one-third the cost of a new build locomotive.
The class has its origins in 1997 when Freightliner ordered an initial six locomotives. In 2000 a prototype locomotive was converted with electric train heating, with a view to obtaining orders from passenger companies.
They are known as "Bodysnatchers", or "Zombies" to enthusiasts, by virtue of the fact that the shell (body) of the Class 47 has been stripped, rewired and re-engined and as "GM"s due to them being "genetically modified" with General Motors equipment.
Read more about this topic: British Rail Class 57
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