The first 16 sets were fitted for use on the 750V DC lines and were operated as part of the South Eastern franchise, first by Connex South Eastern, then by South Eastern Trains.
The first 16 sets were fitted for use on the 750V DC lines, entering service on 16 August 1996 for Network SouthEast. Following franchising, they became part of the South Eastern franchise, oeprated from 13 October that year by Connex South Eastern, then by South Eastern Trains.