DCR Class 56 Co Co 56303 Era 10 The British Rail Class 56 Type 5 Co-Co diesel locomotive was first introduced in 1976 to cope with the increased requirement for heavy freight. British Rail awarded the contract to design and build these new engines to Brush Traction in Loughborough, who subsequently sub-contracted the construction to Electroputere in Romania, due to the lack of capacity in their own works. The initial 30 locomotives to be delivered from Romania suffered from transit damage and construction deficiencies and had to be extensively rebuilt before entering service. With this in mind the decision was made to build the remaining 105 locomotives in England, British Rail Engineering Ltd manufacturing them at their Doncaster Works (nos. 56031 to 56115) and Crewe Works (nos. 56116 to 56135). A fantastic selection of Hornby 00 gauge diesel and electric locomotives. Coming to the fore during the 1950s, the diesel-electric locomotive displaced many a steam engine and has been a dominant part of the railway landscape ever since. Hornby's extensive range of diesel and electric locomotives is perfect to complement any train set from this time of transition through to the modern day layout. Whether you are looking for early models to run alongside your steam locomotives or modern high speed trains, explore our range of DCC-fitted and DCC-ready locomotives. For the ultimate experience, we also have our fascinating diesel and electric locomotives with sound range. Whatever you choose, from the passenger-moving multiple units to the ever popular diesel and electric locomotive workhorses, Hornby's accurate details and fine build quality will ensure these electric and diesel locomotives perform tirelessly and look the part alongside our extensive collection of a ccessories and rolling stock.