Rails of Sheffield have received the production samples of their forthcoming Brown-Boveri gas turbine prototype 18000 in 00, produced in collaboration with Danish based manufacture Heljan, plans of which were first announced our January 2020 issue.
Three liveries are being produced: BR black with silver trim (c.1949 - 56); BR lined green with early emblem and orange waistband (c. 1956 - 57); BR lined green with late crests and orange waistband (c.1957 - 60). Detail differences between the locomotive ‘as built’ and as subsequently modified during the 1950s has been incorporated into the tooling, with roof, cab front and grille detail varying between the BR black and green versions.
Priced at £199.99, the model specifications include; easy access 21-pin DCC socket and space for provision for DCC sound speaker, directional and interior lighting (including cab and engine room), heavy die-cast metal chassis with central motor and flywheel, spoked wheels etched grilles, sprung buffers and flush glazing. Optional Western Region style train reporting number frame and numerals will also be included.
Production is now in the final stages, with an expected delivery pinned for June 2021. Pre-ordering is strongly recommend, with certain liveries close to selling out to pre-order. Models can be secured for £30.00 deposit from the retailer’s website:
