THE 400 Series Preservation Group has acquired first-built Class 313 EMU No. 313201 (the former No. 313001) from Beacon Rail for a symbolic sum of £1, with the aim of restoring and maintaining the unit’s operational status.
The plan includes conducting a B-exam at Eastleigh Works in early 2024 using the skills of the on-site engineers.
The unit was originally chosen by the Railway Heritage Designation Advisory Board for preservation after retirement, but the board changed its decision in early 2023 in favour of ex-Network Rail unit No. 313121, which retains original seating and dual-voltage traction equipment.
No. 313201 spent the majority of its working life in North London, operating Euston to Watford DC and North London Line services.
