The Encyclopedia of Trains and Locomotives [544pp]

From the first machine to travel faster than a horse to magnetic levitation vehicles exceeding 550km/h (343mph), this compendium of the world’s most famous locomotives and trains is a comprehensive guide to the subject. Written by a team of experts, the book uses detailed descriptions of the world’s most significant trains and locomotives to trace the evolution of steam, diesel and electric technology applied to the railway, as well as some technical cul-de-sacs such as the steam-turbine electric and the gas turbine. The entries describe not only the rationale behind each design but how successful it proved.

Descriptions of more than 1000 trains and locomotives are arranged in three sections – steam locomotives, diesel locos and trains, and electric locos and trains – and are listed chronologically within each section, so that the reader can compare the development of the principal types of power. The role of economics and politics in the development of the rail industries is also addressed.

Including more than 1300 photographs and colour artworks, The Encyclopedia of Trains and Locomotives is an expertly written feast of information for the true rail enthusiast.