NIR Class 4000
The Class 4000 is a type of diesel multiple unit (DMU) in service with Northern Ireland Railways.
| Northern Ireland Railways Class 4000 "C4K" | |
|---|---|
Class 4000 DMU 4012 at Coleraine railway station, 2021 | |
Interior view of car 4513 of set 4013 | |
| In service | 2011–present |
| Manufacturer | CAF |
| Family name | CxK |
| Replaced | Class 450 and Class 80 |
| Entered service | 2011–2012 |
| Number built | 20 sets (81 cars in total, 40 DM cars, 41 intermediates) |
| Formation |
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| Fleet numbers |
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| Capacity |
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| Operators | NI Railways |
| Specifications | |
| Maximum speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Prime mover(s) | MTU 6H 1800 R84 (one per car) |
| Engine type | Inline-6 turbo-diesel |
| Displacement | 12.8 L (780 cu in) per engine |
| Power output | 390 kW (520 hp) per engine |
| Transmission |
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| Safety system(s) | AWS, TPWS |
| Track gauge | 1,600 mm (5 ft 3 in) |
The fleet was procured due to the recognition of the essential role railways play in economic growth and the need to replace outdated rolling stock, particularly Class 80 and Class 450 trains. After receiving funding from the Northern Ireland Assembly and issuing a tender, NI Railways awarded the contract to CAF, which already had a successful track record with the Class 3000 units. The Class 4000 trains entered service in 2011, with significant internal differences from the C3K fleet, such as increased seating capacity and improved fuel economy. The trains have replaced the remaining Class 80 and Class 450 trains, increasing capacity and allowing longer trains to operate. In 2018, 21 additional vehicles were ordered to further extend train lengths. Despite some reported technical issues, testing for six-car formations started in 2021.