The Class 701 is a huge class of electric multiple units intended to renew much of the fleet of South Western Railways. Part of the Aventra family, though branded as Arterio by SWR, the Class 701 is intended to replace the Class 455, 456and707and allow for the cascade of the Class 458. The Class 701 comprises ten-car 701/0 and five-car 701/5 sets.
SWR 701 517 on a delivery run at Derby
Information
Number built:
750 (90 10 and 5-car sets)
Built:
2019-
Builder:
Bombardier Derby / Alstom
Motor:
Bombardier traction system (750v DC OHLE)
Power:
(701/0): 5, 364 hp (4, 000 kW) (701/5): 2, 682 hp (2, 000 kW)
The original entry into service was planned to be 2019 though delays in construction meant the first unit was not completed until mid-2020. COVID delays and problems with the units (the Aventra family in general have had a troublesome entry into service) has meant that a limited entry into service did not occur until early 2024 though a full entry into service is not expected until 2026.
The Class 701 has regenerative braking and wide gangways between cars as well as wide doors and efficient layouts.
Cab side of 701 517 with Arterio branding
SWR branding
In Derby we are a long way from third rail land, motive power is via a Class 47!
