The 1903 North Eastern Railway Electric Autocar

The 1903 Electric Autocar Trust has finalised the restoration of a unique wooden-bodied Edwardian autocar and autocoach at Embsay.  The autocar is one of the most important items of historic rolling stock in the country.  It was the first railway vehicle to carry its own internal combustion engine and generator to drive the transmission – it truly is the grandfather of all modern trains – when it was built in 1903 it was well ahead of its time!  It’s restoration from a forgotten holiday home hidden in some bushes to the beautifully restored condition it is in today (with the help of the Heritage Lottery Fund) is one of the most remarkable preservation stories to be told – and you can now hear the story directly from the man who rescued it from a North Yorkshire farmer’s field – Stephen Middleton.

Autocar restoration wins the prestigious Manisty Award

The Heritage Railway Association’s most prestigious award. Awarded by the Board of the HRA on an occasional basis for an exceptional and outstanding contribution to railway preservation.

Drive the Autocar!

Have you ever wanted to drive a diesel locomotive or our historic and unique Autocar?

We’re now offering Diesel Footplate Experience courses where you will be guided through how to drive and have a go for yourself.

We run over the full line and pull a complete service train, rather than just driving the loco only..or you will experience our unique North Eastern Railway Autocar from 1903.

This is a once in a life time opportunity.  It includes

• Safety and technical session (classroom)
• Guided tour of the engine
• Two 9 mile trips driving
• A year’s free membership
• A certificate of participation
• Spaces on the train for your family
• Photo opportunities (emailed to you)
• Guard for 1 trip
• Inclusive tea & coffee and packed lunch
  – Only £350