Steam ruled...or did it?

In the days when steam ruled the rail, seas and factories, one railway found an alternative.

In 1903 the North Eastern Railway built a railcar powered by electricity generated from a petrol engine - this, when the Wright brothers had yet to fly!

Feel free to contact us if you are interested in helping us achieve our objectives!

Our Objectives

While the initial objectives of the charity are to restore this special railcar and an appropriate trailer coach, the on-going function is educational. The autocar is laid out in such a way that it can be a “mobile class room”. There are double doors on both sides and internally, offering good access, even for wheelchairs.

Controls

The engine, dynamo, and driving controls are clearly visible from inside the autocar, so simple technical explanations can be given. When in motion the passengers will experience the sight and sound of what was a totally novel form of propulsion over a 100 years ago.

Educational battle bus

The history of railcars can be interpreted, from this pioneer to the modern developments forming the majority of rail passenger transport across the world today. This autocar will be made available to other heritage lines to spread the message as an “educational battle bus” and school parties encouraged to visit and ride, taking away interpretation material. Technical guides will be offered.

Ancient pioneer

Those who experience the autocar can learn that although the peak of steam design had yet to be reached, modern railway vehicles were conceived, introduced and proven over a hundred years ago in Yorkshire.