English Electric BR 40

Built by English Electric

Top speed

140 km/h

87 mph

Power output

1,160 kW

1,556 hp

Weight

135 t

297,624 lb

Length

21.18 m

69 ft 6 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1958–1962

200 units

Overview of the English Electric BR 40

Discover the powerful BR 40 diesel locomotive.

This impressive machine, built by English Electric between 1958 and 1962, is a testament to British engineering. With a top speed of 140 km/h and a substantial power output of 1160 kW, the BR 40 was designed for demanding railway operations.

Measuring 21.18 meters in length and weighing 135 tonnes, this locomotive features a robust (1'Co)(Co'1) UIC axle configuration. It runs on standard 1435 mm gauge track.

The BR 40 has served various esteemed organizations, including British Railways Board, Locomotive Services Limited, and Severn Valley Railway, showcasing its enduring legacy in heritage and operational railways.

English Electric BR 40 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	English Electric · 1958–1962200 units
Top speed	140 km/h87 mph	87 mph
Power output	1,160 kW1,556 hp	1,556 hp
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	(1'Co)(Co'1)
Length	21.18 m69 ft 6 in	69 ft 6 in
Width	2.74 m9 ft 0 in	9 ft 0 in
Height	3.9 m12 ft 10 in	12 ft 10 in
Weight	135 t297,624 lb	297,624 lb