The LNWR electric units were ordered by the London and North Western Railway for its suburban services in London.

The trains were formed into 3-car units, with first- and third-class accommodation in open saloons. Following the 1923 grouping and absorption of the line into the LMS, similar LMS electric units, but with accommodation in compartments, were purchased to run with the Oerlikon units in 1926 and 1932. 

38 three-car sets and 5 spare motor cars were produced, The Oerlikon stock trains were replaced between 1957 and 1960 by Class 501 units. The Oerlikon units were all withdrawn by 1960. The LMS electric units were withdrawn in 1963. One Oerlikon Driving Motor Brake is the only survivor and is a part of the national collection.