Following many months of trials, including operating a Class 357 on the Velim test track in the Czech Republic to obtain certification, c2c has now modified its entire fleet of 74 Class 357 Electrostar sets to operate with fully re-generative brakes, the process commenced in March. Meaning that when the driver applies the train brakes from above a low speed threshold, the power 'generated' during speed retardation is returned to the electric system via the pantograph.

Operator c2c are first UK train operator to have an entire fleet operating in a re-generative mode. The official launch at Southend at 11.45 and London Fenchurch Street station at 14.00 on 4 June, on the eve of World Environment day, saw c2c Managing Director unveil set No. 357010 in a revised green livery. c2c engineers say that around 20-21% of energy is saved by using the modified braking system.

Statistics show that the Bombardier built Class 357 fleet are some of the most reliable EMUs in the UK, allowing c2c to give a 94.5% performance figure of on time running in the four weeks ending 26 May 2007.

The green liveried set will operate throughout the c2c network enforcing the operators commitment to lowering CO2 emissions.