Hmmmm...
Well, I'm having a hard time trying to spot what's actually going on here, but the Czech Republic does seem to be a bit of a long way to go for brake testing...Especially as it would make much more sense for them to just test it out on sections of the ECML at night, outside of traffic hours!
As for getting a 357 over to the Czech Republic: I don't know what signalling systems are fitted to the Class 357, but assuming the train is compatible with ECTPS, then it would probably be able to run through France, Germany and Poland without problems - So in theory she could get there under her own "steam"! 8)
As for the channel tunnel: I know for a fact that standard diesel and gas turbine trains (And all other fuel burning vehicles) are strictly prohibited from entering the tunnel with their engines running because of the problems caused by build-up of fumes in the tunnel itself. Even Le Shuttle's own Thunderbird diesel units have to have a self-contained exhaust fume "scrubbing" system fitted - Which is so large that it takes up most of a second car, although the air it produces from the engine exhaust fumes is actually cleaner than the air that we breathe! :eek:
IIRC though: The Channel Tunnel uses 25Kv overhead traction, so theoretically a Class 357 should be capable of going from the UK, through the tunnel itself, and as far afield as the German/Polish border under her own steam before needing another unit to tow it! :evil2:
And if what I have said above is actually true and not just speculation: Who can say that Bombardier stock is bad?
Farewell...
>> Death <<