Description
The Class 350/1 units were originally part of an order for thirty-two 5-car Class 450 units for South West Trains. However, they were never built as such. Of the 160 carriages ordered, 40 were diverted as an additional ten 4-car Class 450 units, and the remaining 120 were modified as thirty 4-car Class 350/1 units. The original was operating the maximum speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).
A second batch of Class 350/2 units to replace the Class 321 units were delivered late 2008 and during 2009. The first of the Class 350/2 was launched on 8 October 2008 and carried invited guests around the Wildenrath Test Track. The last of the Class 350/2 fleet (350267) was officially delivered to London Midland on 30 July 2009. These new units are designated Class 350/2 and differ from the Class 350/1 units in two key aspects: they have 3+2 seating in standard class (because they work short-hop commuter services, the Class 350/1 are 2+2 throughout and work longer distance services) and lack the dual voltage capability that the existing units have.
The Class 350 units differ from the Class 450 because the latter units operate from 750 V dc from a third rail, whilst the Class 350/1 units operate from both 25 kV ac from an overhead power supply, and also 750 V dc from a third-rail. This capability is not used in normal service but was used some units which were leased to Southern in 2008/2009, to cover for dual voltage Class 377/2 units temporarily sub-leased to First Capital Connect. The class 350/2 units do not have third rail shoe gear fitted.
Every set of doors has its own set of guard operated door controls behind a lockable panel. The cabs have three radio systems - Cab Secure Radio (CSR), National Radio Network (NRN) and the newest system, GSM-R. This allows a great deal of operational flexibility.
CCTV and Flip Dot destination screens are fitted throughout the train.
The only visual difference externally between a 350/1 and 350/2 is the carriage end connector doors on a 350/2 are 1/2 Yellow and Black.
Read more about this topic: British Rail Class 350
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