Rapido Trains UK: 'U' Class Announced

The SR U class was a series of 2-6-0 steam locomotives designed by Richard Maunsell for passenger service on the Southern Railway (SR) in the 1920s. Evolving from the earlier SECR K class tank engines, the U class was part of Maunsell’s effort to modernize the fleet by replacing outdated 4-4-0 locomotives. The first 20 locomotives were rebuilds of the K class, one of which had been involved in the Sevenoaks accident. These were followed by 30 newly built engines between 1928 and 1931.

Drawing on the design of the GWR 4300s and N class locomotives, the U class also incorporated Midland Railway principles, helping to advance the development of the 2-6-0 type in Britain. Their design prioritized standardization and interchangeability with other Maunsell classes. A total of 50 U class engines were built, with the design later forming the basis for the 3-cylinder U1 class.

Nicknamed "U-boats" after German submarines, they served widely across the Southern Railway and later British Railways until their withdrawal in 1966. Four examples have survived into preservation and are operational on heritage railways in southern England.

Ten versions of this classic Southern Railway locomotive are due to be produced, each with their own eye-catching livery details and designs. Ideal for any Southern Railways enthusiast. Both Analogue and DCC Sound models will be available for each model.

SR Lined Olive A639

SR Lined Olive 1615

SR Lined Olive 1638

SR Black Sunshine Lettering 1614

BR Black Sunshine Lettering 31616

BR Black Sunshine Lettering 31632

BR Lined Early Black 31631

BR Lined Early Black 31620

BR Lined Late Black 31627

BR Lined Late Black 31639

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