Hitachi A-Train AT300

The A-Train is a large family of trainsets with electric power transmission that is being used in multiple countries. One thing in common for all models of the family is that their bodies are constructed from double skin aluminium extruded sections, which are friction stir welded. The type AT300 designates a number of classes used for intercity and long-distance services in the UK.

The first was the class 395 “Javelin” ordered by Southeastern for the High Speed 1. They have an operational top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h) and also have the French safety systems KVB and TVM-430. Depending on section, they are either operating under DC with the British safety systems at a top speed of 100 mph or under AC with the French safety systems at their full speed.

For intercity traffic with 125 mph (201 km/h), a programme called “Hitachi Super Express” was launched in 2009. This led to the classes 800 to 803, 805, 807 and 810 of which the first ones were built in 2014. They are operating under brands like “Azuma”, “Nova”, “Paragon”, “Evero” and “Aurora”. All of them can operate under 25 kV AC and some are bi-mode trains with powerful MTU power packs. The latest one, the class 810 “Aurora” that is currently being introduced by East Midlands Railway, forms a five-car set that delivers nearly 4,000 hp in diesel mode from four power packs and nearly 5,400 hp in AC mode.