What train is Arthur based on?

Arthur, the friendly and distinctive tank engine, is based on an LMS Ivatt Class 2MT 2-6-2 tank engine. This specific class of locomotive was developed for the London Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS).

Understanding Arthur's Locomotive Basis

Arthur's design draws directly from real-world railway engineering, specifically the LMS Ivatt Class 2MT locomotives. These engines were designed for mixed-traffic duties, meaning they were versatile enough to handle both passenger and freight trains.

Here's a breakdown of the key elements that define Arthur's real-life counterpart:

• LMS Ivatt Class 2MT: This refers to the specific design class developed under George Ivatt for the London Midland and Scottish Railway. The "2MT" denotes its power classification within the British railway system, indicating a relatively modest but capable mixed-traffic engine.
• 2-6-2 Wheel Arrangement: This describes the locomotive's wheel configuration:
  • 2 leading wheels (at the front)
  • 6 driving wheels (powered, in the middle)
  • 2 trailing wheels (at the rear)
    This arrangement provides a good balance of power, stability, and speed for varied tasks.
• Tank Engine: Unlike tender locomotives that carry their fuel and water in a separate vehicle, tank engines carry these supplies on board the locomotive itself, typically in tanks on either side of the boiler and in a bunker at the rear. This design makes them well-suited for shunting, branch lines, and duties where frequent reversals are needed, as they don't need to be turned on a turntable.

These robust and versatile engines served an important role in railway operations, and Arthur's character embodies the reliable and hardworking spirit of these real-life locomotives.

Key Characteristics of Arthur's Inspiration