The one-of-a-kind prototype electric locomotive that was set to transform the East Coast Main Line, the BR Class 89 is now available to drive in Train Simulator 2020:

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1211476

The BR Class 89 was a prototype electric locomotive that was set to transform the East Coast Main Line, and while reality went in a different direction, one cannot deny the unique and powerful design that was the “Badger”, and this one-of-a-kind loco is available to drive in Train Simulator!

With the ECML amidst major transformation in the form of electrification, British Rail were keen to source a brand new fleet of electric locomotives that would haul services under the new wires. The initial specification was drawn up by Brush at Loughborough and built at Crewe Works in 1986. Unfortunately, the fate of the type was essentially sealed in the same year, when BR changed their specification requirements after Brush had committed to building the locomotive.

The new loco rolled off the production line and was dubbed the BR Class 89, boasting 6 traction motors which would power it up to 125mph in service.

Passenger service on the ECML was rather brief, it was used on London – Leeds services for only about 3 years before a serious failure occurred, and the locomotive fell by the wayside. It was rescued by some Brush employees, and appeared at some events across the country, but the future looked bleak.

But then came privatisation, BR and its sectors had been replaced by rail franchises, and the newly formed GNER franchise purchased the sole Class 89 for its own use following a motive power shortage. It entered service once again in 1997, but history rhymed, and in 2001 a major failure put the loco out of use and this time it was for good. The 89 was once sold into preservation once again, where it remains to this day with the long-term goal of making it operational for railtour use.

While its service life was brief, and it never got the chance to become the mainline workhorse it was meant to be, the BR Class 89 found a place in many enthusiasts hearts, its unique design earned itself the nickname of “Badger”, and it offered the occasional break from the norm for spotters.

Fans of the “Badger” rejoice, as this unsung stallion can now be experienced in Train Simulator!

Available today on the Steam Store, the official game of Great British Railway Journeys features five routes with over 350 miles to explore. Follow in the footsteps of the father of the train timetable, George Bradshaw. His handbook was the first comprehensive tourist guide created for Britain's railways and was the inspiration for the hit television series. Your journey in the official game will take you to five locations across Britain…

East Coast Main Line London-Peterborough

The iconic HST kick-started an era of high-speed rail travel and went on to prove itself as capable and versatile over many of Britain’s main lines. Take the HST over one of the busiest railway routes on the British network, the East Coast Main Line, and experience life in the fast lane.

Great Eastern Main Line London-Ipswich

The BR Class 360 has proven hugely successful in high capacity commuter travel, with its spacious interior and modern driving cab. Command this hard-working EMU through the dense urban network of east London departing the third busiest station in the UK at Liverpool Street.

Portsmouth Direct Line: London Waterloo – Portsmouth

One of the busiest commuter networks in Britain, the south western network is serviced by an array of modern EMUs including BR Classes 444, 450, 455/8 and 377s. Step into the driving cabs of four of Britain’s iconic commuter trains and ferry your passengers to Portsmouth out of London’s magnificent Waterloo station.

Settle to Carlisle

Famous for its numerous viaducts, tunnels and stunning scenery, the Settle-Carlisle line attracts thousands of railfans from all over the world every year. Take control of powerful heavy freight machines, regional passenger and even steam engines and battle the many summits, twists and turns of Cumbria’s historic Lake District route.

Chatham & Medway Line

Connecting England's garden with London, the south-eastern route through the heart of the Medway valley is operated heavily by third rail powered multiple units. Transport passengers with a wide range of electric multiple units such as the BR Class 375 and BR Class 465 or weave through the busy traffic with American-built BR Class 59 heavy freight locomotives.

Great British Railway Journeys is OUT NOW on Steam. If you’re an existing owner of Train Simulator, Great British Railway Journeys expands your existing collection by adding five routes directly into your copy of Train Simulator.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1226690