APT-E

High Speed Trials

A series of high speed runs on the Western Region, along the up (towards London) main line between Uffington and Goring, culminated with APT-E (driven by Bob Kerr of Old Oak Common depot) setting a new British rail speed record of 152.3mph at 10:31am on Sunday 10 August 1975.

APT-E 152.3 mph 10 August 1975
APT-E is the British rail speed record holder for non-electric traction.

Listen to the Intercom Tape from this record breaking run.

Tapes were saved thanks to Brian Porter and digitised by Paul Leadley.

APT-E at Didcot
APT-E at Didcot whilst undergoing high speed trials.

APT A PROMISE UNFULFILLED

Details of the Western Region high speed trials can be found in chapter five of 'APT A Promise Unfulfilled' by Hugh Williams.
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© R G Latham 2026.