Class 768

The Class 768 is a parcels carrying version of the Class 769 Flex bi-mode built for Orion Logistics (part of the Rail Operations Group). These are refurbished Class 319 electric multiple units which have been fitted with diesel engines to operate away from electrified routes. After the completion of the conversion to bi-mode units the Class 768s were fitted out to carry parcel cages and pallets at Eastleigh.

Orion Logistics 768 001 heads through Rugeley Trent Valley

Information
Number built:	8 (2 4-car sets)
Built:	2020- (Original build 1987-90)
Builder:	Brush Traction (conversions)
Motor:	2 MAN D2876 diesels per set  25kv AC OHLE / 750v DC third-rail
Power:	1, 046 hp (780 kW)

Two conversions were been carried out with eight more planned however, any plans were put on hold after the closure of the historic Brush Traction works at Loughborough were the conversions took place. It is unknown if the other conversions will now take place. The Class 768s ran some demonstration services in late 2021, at first diesel hauled then under their own power.

EuroPheonix 37 884 hauls two Class 768s through Rugeley Trent Valley

McEwan Pratt Petrol Locomotive for Assam Oil

McEwan Pratt was a short lived manufacturer (1905-1912 when they were bought out by Baguley Cars) of narrow gauge locomotives powered by the internal combustion engine. This locomotive was one of their earliest built and was ordered by the Assam Oil Company and was one of the earliest petrol engine powered locomotives to be built.

The locomotive [1]

Information
Number built:	1
Built:	1909
Builder:	McEwan Pratt & Company
Motor:	4 cylinder petrol engine
Power:	50 hp (37 kW)
Wheel arrangement:	0-6-0PM

The locomotive operated on the company's metre gauge network hauling oil trains. The locomotive had two speeds and designed to haul up to 67 tons though to said to have comfortably exceed that when built.

Publicity photograph

[1] "Petrol locomotive for Assam", Railway Times (January 1 1910) p. 10