Details on the 73: The British Rail Class 73 is a class of electro-diesel locomotive built throughout the 1960s (to a total of 49), which is unique as it can operate on the Southern Region's 650/750 V DC third rail power supply, or an onboard diesel engine to allow it to be used on non-electrified yards or sidings, and nowadays some eveen make appearances on heritage railways such as the Bluebell and Spa Valley (both of which i happen to volunteer for myself) the latter of which has had their 73 recently moved elsewhere though. Other than heritage railways though they are still in common use on the Mainline, specifically with operators such as GBRF and some modified ones around too, which have had larger Diesel Engines fitted, for wider use on a larger variety of routes. However this post focuses on the GBRF locos, for the main reason that they are commonly situated at Tonbridge West Yard, which you may know has been a recent addition in Firefly's wonderful Medway Valley line (applause to them for creating such a masterpiece). These class 73s are a very common sight across Kent and Sussex throughout the year with various Network Rail engineering trains (notably RHTT runs and Test/Track recording runs) Why i think the 73 would suit TSW: I think a class 73 loco addon would suit TSW for multiple reasons, such as being a much wanted add on amongst many in the community, being unique for it's type and (correct me if I'm wrong) would be the first locomotive of dual power source in the game. It's multiple uses and the fact it covers a very large amount of the Southern Region could give it plenty of uses in game on a multitude of routes, notably Medway Valley and Southeastern high speed, but could also be a very nice addition to ECW and London Commuter too, on a multitude of services and free roam possibilities, meaning there would be plenty of things to use it for and plenty of possibilities, even WSR with it's little compact diesel engine! Final thoughts: I could go on forever about the 73 but overall, I think it would be a fantastic little addition to Train Sim World, and I'm sure would make many others happy too aswell as myself of course. So I would love for it to be considered by any of the developers, and I hope you've enjoyed reading this! Have a good day all. 73961 at Tonbridge 04/04/26
