As fast as a speeding Bullet, but a lot longer and heavier, a revolutionary locomotive is heading to York.

The longest stage of its journey is complete, and it is still yet to touch the rails.

The world famous Japanese Bullet, capable of speeds of almost 200mph, will go on display at the National Railway Museum (NRM) this summer - the first rail vehicle built and run outside Britain to enter the York-based collection.

It arrived in Southampton after its 10,000-mile journey from Hakata Port on March 16 and now the 54-tonne locomotive faces a road trip to York.

Once it reaches the historic railway capital it will be put on to rails and, with the help of Thrall Europa and Railtrack, will be placed in the museum's collection.

The Japanese Series O will open the next chapter in the story of the train and herald a new international era for the world's biggest railway museum.

Joining icons like the Mallard, Duchess of Hamilton and City of Truro, the 82ft leading vehicle, built in 1976 and pulled out of service last year, will be on display in July.

"There is no doubt visitors to the NRM will be able to explore one of the most impressive and recognisable rail icons of all time," said Andrew Scott, head of museum.

"Instead of struggling within the confines of an essentially Victorian network like the rest of the world, the Japanese started from scratch and reinvented the railway."

"The concept of new special railways for high-speed passenger transport has already spread across Europe and in to America, Australia and Korea, where similar networks are planned."

The train will be part of a major new exhibition and visitors will be given access inside.

Updated: 11:36 Tuesday, May 15, 2001