Hungarian Railways

Hungary offers a wealth of different trains to document, including state railway operator MAV, private companies such as GYSEV, Floyd, and AWT, and locomotives from the seven countries that border Hungary. Floyd is a company well known to British railway enthusiasts for its former British Rail Class 86s and Class 56s, which are still in operation for Freightliner UK and Colas and DCR spot hire. Dave Smith and Steve Madden offer an overview of the diversity of the Hungarian railway scene over the past decade, from the 1960s-built Class M40 diesel locomotives to the recently introduced Class 471 Vectron electric locomotives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2019
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Hungary is a paradise for railway photographers, offering a diverse range of trains to capture. Alongside the state railway operator MAV, numerous private companies operate throughout the country, including GYSEV, Floyd, and AWT. Additionally, a number of locomotives from the seven countries that border Hungary ply their trade deep within Hungary. Floyd, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of British railway enthusiasts due to its fleet of former British Rail Class 86s and Class 56s. These iconic locomotives, built in the 1960s and still in operation today, are responsible for hauling freight trains for Freightliner UK. Similarly, the 1970s-built BR Type 5s continue to serve Britain, particularly for Colas and DCR spot hire. In Hungary, these locomotives are primarily tasked with transporting grain and fuel trains.

Dave Smith and Steve Madden provide a comprehensive overview of the Hungarian railway scene's evolution over the past decade. From the 1960s-built Class M40 diesel locomotives to the recently introduced Class 471 Vectron electric locomotives, Hungary has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its rail infrastructure. This diversity reflects the country's commitment to modernizing its transportation system and meeting the growing demand for efficient and sustainable mobility.

The Class 86s and Class 56s operated by Floyd are a testament to the enduring quality and reliability of British engineering. These locomotives have been in service for decades and continue to perform admirably, proving that investment in quality infrastructure pays dividends in the long run. Their presence in Hungary signifies the strong ties between Britain and Hungary in the field of transportation, and their continued operation highlights the importance of preserving and maintaining heritage locomotives for future generations.

In addition to the iconic British locomotives, Hungary has also embraced modern technology in its railway operations. The Class 471 Vectron electric locomotives, for instance, represent a significant step forward in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and noise reduction. These locomotives emit significantly less pollution than their diesel counterparts, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. Their introduction also signals Hungary's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable transportation practices.

The Hungarian railway scene's diversity is further enhanced by the presence of locomotives from other countries. These locomotives, hailing from countries like Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and Croatia, add a unique flavor to the country's rail network. Their integration into the Hungarian railway system demonstrates the country's openness to international cooperation and its willingness to embrace diverse transportation solutions.

Overall, Hungary's railway photographer is spoiled for choice when it comes to capturing a wide range of trains and locomotives. From the iconic British heritage to the modern technology of the Class 471 Vectron electric locomotives, Hungary's railway scene offers a captivating glimpse into the world of rail transportation. The country's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and international cooperation ensures that its railway system remains a vital part of its economy and society for years to come.

Weight: 302g
Dimension: 232 x 172 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445687704