Greater Anglia Class 755 FLIRT Fleet
UK (East Anglia; Norwich, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Sheringham, Ipswich, Ely, Felixstowe, Sudbury) · 2018–2020 (built), 2019 (first service) · £610 million (part of a larger order for 58 FLIRT UK sets, 2016 prices)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThe FLIRT modular train family allowed for a highly configurable design to meet Greater Anglia's specific regional and intercity service requirements, including bi-mode capability. - The incident at New Rackheath level crossing highlighted critical safety lessons regarding track circuit contamination and the need for robust system responses, leading to software revisions and increased track maintenance. - The project demonstrated the successful replacement of an entire diesel fleet with more modern, efficient bi-mode units, contributing to improved passenger experience and operational flexibility. - Despite initial delays and faults, the Class 755 achieved recognition as the most reliable diesel multiple unit, underscoring the importance of continuous improvement and maintenance efforts.
Key engineering challenges
Designing bi-mode trains with integrated diesel power packs to operate on both electrified and non-electrified regional lines. - Achieving step-free boarding at standard-height platforms through a lower-than-usual floor level, enabled by the Jacobs bogie arrangement. - Ensuring high reliability and performance across diverse regional routes, replacing older diesel multiple units. - Addressing initial multiple faults and software issues during the rollout to ensure consistent service delivery.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- Rock Rail (owner); Greater Anglia (operator)
- Lead contractor
- Stadler Rail
- Lead designers
- Stadler Rail
- Project type
- vehicle/fleet programme
- Scale
- 38 units (14 x 3-car Class 755/3, 24 x 4-car Class 755/4); 3-car unit length: 65.0 m; 4-car unit length: 80.7 m; Max speed: 100 mph (160 km/h); Power output (AC): 2,600 kW; Power output (diesel): 960 kW (755/3), 1,920 kW (755/4)
- Disciplines
- Mechanical; Electrical; Systems; Software
- Standards & frameworks
- UK railway standards
Sources: British Rail Class 755 - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Class_755) - Rail Engineer: New Trains in a Pandemic (https://www.railengineer.co.uk/new-trains-in-a-pandemic/) - Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) report on New Rackheath incident (implied by Wikipedia content)