BRC&W BR 81

Built by AEI, BRC&W

Top speed

161 km/h

100 mph

Power output

2,390 kW

3,205 hp

Weight

81 t

178,574 lb

Length

17.22 m

56 ft 6 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1959–1964

25 units

Overview of the BRC&W BR 81

Discover the BR 81, a powerful electric locomotive that served British Railways.

This iconic engine, classified as Bo'Bo', was built by AEI and BRC&W between 1959 and 1964, with 25 units produced.

Its robust design boasts a length of 17.22 meters and a weight of 81 tons, making it a significant piece of railway engineering.

Experience its impressive performance with a top speed of 161 km/h and a formidable tractive effort of 222 kN, powered by a 2390 kW electric system operating on 25 kV AC 50 Hz.

The BR 81 is a testament to the advancements in electric traction during its era.

BRC&W BR 81 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	AEI, BRC&W · 1959–196425 units
Top speed	161 km/h100 mph	100 mph
Power output	2,390 kW3,205 hp	3,205 hp
Tractive effort	222 kN49,908 lbf	49,908 lbf
Electric systems	25 kV AC 50 Hz
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	Bo'Bo'
Length	17.22 m56 ft 6 in	56 ft 6 in
Width	2.65 m8 ft 8 in	8 ft 8 in
Height	3.77 m12 ft 4 in	12 ft 4 in
Weight	81 t178,574 lb	178,574 lb