We’ve just had the chance to get hands-on with production samples of Revolution Trains’ eagerly awaited newly tooled N Gauge Class 313 and Class 314 electric multiple units – and they’re now another big step closer to arrival!
Four different samples have been with us at Rails of Sheffield, covering a great spread of liveries across the two classes. We’ve photographed them in detail, put them on the layout, and also recorded a full video look at the models – including a DCC Sound running session.
Even better, production is now moving along rapidly, with the first models starting to leave China. That means these long-awaited EMUs will soon be making their way towards the UK, with arrivals expected over the coming months.
We’re naturally particularly excited about our exclusive Network Rail yellow Class 313, which looks incredibly distinctive in this small scale and brings something very different to the range. Alongside this we also have further exclusives covering the popular 313201 in Southern Rail heritage BR blue and grey livery as well as unusual later converted T7 Translator Vehicles in Arlington Fleet Services livery.
Take a look through our new photographs, watch the video and secure your preferred Class 313 or 314 ahead of arrival!
Watch our New Video
We haven’t just photographed the samples either. We’ve also produced a new video taking a much closer look at the Class 313 and 314 range, with footage of the production samples running on the layout alongside detailed shots showing off the models from every angle.
For anyone interested in the digital versions, we were also able to include a DCC Sound running session, giving you the chance to hear the models in action as well as see them.
Exclusive to Rails - Class 313s & T7 Translator Vehicles
Alongside the general Revolution Trains Class 313 and 314 range, we’ve also got three Rails of Sheffield Exclusive releases on the way, covering some of the more unusual and distinctive chapters in the Class 313 story.
First is Class 313201 in Southern’s heritage BR Blue/Grey livery. The real unit was the former 313001 — the first production Class 313 — and was repainted in 2017 to celebrate more than 40 years of the class in service. Its grey passenger doors reflect modern accessibility requirements while retaining the overall heritage appearance. Our model is available in both standard and DCC Sound fitted form.
We’re also producing 313121 in Network Rail yellow, the version we’ve been lucky enough to have among the latest production samples. The real unit was converted for Network Rail’s test fleet and used for work connected with ERTMS testing, making its bright yellow departmental appearance a fascinating contrast to the passenger liveries elsewhere in the range. Again, both standard and DCC Sound fitted versions are available.
Finally, there’s the particularly unusual Arlington Fleet Services T7 Translator two-car set. These vehicles were converted from former Class 508 driving cars to allow locomotives with conventional couplings to move multiple units equipped with Tightlock couplers. The bright green pair, 64664 ‘Liwet’ and 64707 ‘Labezerin’, could often be seen on unit transfer workings, including behind GBRf Class 66s.
All three are being produced exclusively for Rails of Sheffield, with limited allocations available. With the wider Class 313/314 production run now beginning its journey from China, it’s a very good time to get your preferred exclusive secured ahead of arrival.
General Release Class 313 and 314 EMUs
Product Features
highly detailed 3 car electric multiple unit
working, directional lights (with different appropriate styles for each version - original or revised)
user switchable lighting functions
low profile drive unit (in centre car)
kinematic close coupling with electrical connections between cars
detailed interior
realistic pantograph
DCC decoder socket (next 18)
Fine wheelsets to NMRA RP25 standards
Prototype Information
The Class 313 and 314 belong to the PEP, or Prototype Electro-Pneumatic, family of electric multiple units.
Developed during the early 1970s, the PEP design introduced several features that would become commonplace on later generations of British commuter trains, including power-operated sliding doors and multi-function Tightlock couplings.
The family would eventually include Classes 313, 314, 315, 507 and 508, serving routes across London, southern England, Scotland and Merseyside.
The Class 313 entered service in 1976 and was originally introduced on Great Northern suburban services from London King’s Cross and Moorgate.
One of its most important features was its dual-voltage capability. The units could collect power from overhead wires or from the third rail, allowing them to operate over the main line network and through the restricted tunnels into Moorgate.
Over their exceptionally long careers, Class 313s appeared in a huge variety of liveries and worked for operators including British Rail, Network SouthEast, Silverlink, London Overground, First Capital Connect, Great Northern and Southern.
During their later years, a number of units were transferred to Southern for Coastway services around Brighton, where they continued working until the final passenger examples were withdrawn in May 2023.
The closely related Class 314 entered service in Scotland during 1979. Unlike the dual-voltage Class 313, the Class 314 was designed solely for operation from overhead wires.
They became a familiar sight around Glasgow, initially working routes including the Argyll and North Clyde lines. Later in their careers they could also be found on the Cathcart Circle, Paisley Canal and Inverclyde routes.
The Class 314s gave 40 years of service before the final units were withdrawn in 2019.