Rapido Trains UK has announced another run of the APT-E in OO. Originally produced as part of the National Collection In Miniature range (see June 2016 issue for review), the National Railway Museum has given the manufacturer permission to produce another batch as a standalone Rapido Trains UK product.
The APT-E is an iconic four-car gas-turbine tilting train which set a British railway speed record of 152mph on August 10th 1975. It marked the beginning of British Rail’s quest for faster trains, which ultimately led to the likes of the HST, Pendolino and Hitachi’s IEP. This importance of this revolutionary design was finally recognised in May 2013 when the APT-E won the prestigious Engineering Heritage Award.
Two new four-car train-packs have been announced; £379.95 for DC / DDC ready, and £479.95 for DCC sound fitted. Specifications include; two five-pole motors with flywheel (located in each power car), working tilt mechanism, provisions for ‘P4’ and ‘EM’ scale wheelsets, directional and interior lighting (including illuminated test instrumentations).
Additional trailer cars with seats and one intermediate bogie (a what-if design had the APT-E had entered revenue earning service) will also be available; priced at £119.95 each.
Pre-orders can be placed through all Rapido Trains Uk stockists, including Locomotion Models and the National Railway Museum, as well as direct from the manufacturer’s website;
https://rapidotrains.co.uk/
