Class 89 for 'OO': project update

Accurascale and Rails of Sheffield today provided an update on their model of the unique Class 89 electric locomotive in OO gauge/4mm:1ft scale. Decorated samples of the forthcoming model have been received by the Accurascale design and development team and have been undergoing assessment ahead of production. Since launch in late June 2022, the project has progressed swiftly.

The Accurascale factory has sought to capture this marvel of Brush Engineering in miniature, with the complex shape around the face of the locomotive matching Accurasacale’s scan and CAD drawings. Utilising the same DCC-operated pantograph mechanism as the much-loved Accurasacale Class 92, the Class 89 has 'tried-and-tested' technology throughout meaning that development of this locomotive has been at a much quicker pace.

Accurascale commented: "The locomotive is an excellent performer with excellent smooth running characteristics, and weighty chassis meaning excellent haulage capacity and of course, with [our] industry-leading specification of Powerbank capacitors, helical gearing and multiple lighting configurations, means it will be a talking point on any layout or in any collection.

Related: Read more about the specification of these models

"Sound will be of course be provided via ESU Loksound 5 DCC sound decoders with a full custom sound file. It will also make use of Accurascale’s much loved ‘Accurathrash’ sound set up with large speaker and smaller sugar cube speaker for maximum sound performance."

Accurascale is anxiously awaiting completion of the repairs of the real locomotive at Brush Loughborough before recording the locomotive in the coming weeks. Delivery will now be in Q4 2023 instead of Q3 2023 as mentioned when first announced.

"With China now returning to normal after its change on COVID policy in early 2023, production is gearing up but has been slightly delayed due to the shutdown of factories earlier this year," it added.

A total of five liveries covering the life of the locomotive from creation to date is available, and can only be ordered via Rails of Sheffield or Accurascale direct via their websites. With production about to commence, Rails and Accurascale advise customers to place their pre-orders soon to avoid missing out.

Related: Read more about the specification of these models

The latest issue of BRM is now out! Order your copy for home delivery