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London County Council E/1 Class

This was the largest class of tramcars built for a UK tramway, the type became the standard design operated by London County Council Tramways. The trams were built with top covers though the platforms (and motormen) were exposed to the elements. When the trams were refurbished in the late 1920s and 1930s these problems were rectified with windscreens and platform vestibules added. More comfortable seats were also fitted to some trams.
1622 preserved at Crich


Information
Number built: 1, 050
Built: 1907-30
Builder: Hurst Nelson, Brush Traction,
London County Council Tramways
Motor: 2 BTH509P1 electric motors and others (DC OHLE & Conduit)
Power: 140 hp (104 kW) 

The majority of the tram bodies were built by Hurst Nelson with a number also built by Brush Traction. A small number were also built by LCC itself [1]. The trams were powered by a variety of electric motors including the Westinghouse 200, Metropolitan Vickers 121 and Dick, Kerr 31c. The trams could either get their electricity from overhead lines or a subterranean conduit rail.

The trams were very reliable and could carry up to 78 seated passengers. The trams were withdrawn in the 1940s and early 1950s, being some of the last trams to be operated in London. Two have been preserved.
1025 (left) preserved at London Transport Museum alongside 355

Motorman area and stairs on 1622

Another view of 1622, this tram is in working order

1025 is now just a static exhibit

View inside the lower saloon on 1622



[1] R.W. Kidner, The London Tramcar 1861-1952 (Oakwood Press, 1992) p. 59