As a prelude to Model World Live at the NEC Birmingham on Saturday, 26th and Sunday, 27th April, Bachmann Europe has announced new models of Class 66 diesel locomotives for its Bachmann Branchline OO-scale range.

Although Bachmann has produced OO scale Class 66s since 2005, these new models have been completely redesigned to incorporate the latest technology and the features that are now standard in Branchline range models.

To eliminate stalling, light flicker, and sound cut-outs, the models have a Bach-Up Stay Alive System that provides uninterrupted power when used on DCC.

SOUND FITTED DELUXE models have an auto-release coupling system fitted as standard, as well as tinted windscreen glazing.

A Plux22 DCC decoder socket is fitted, and is accessed through a removable, magnetic roof panel, which also gives access to the light control switches for analogue users.

Externally, the models have ribbed bodysides and industrial-looking solebars, with separately fitted pipework and cabling. The bogies have full relief detail, with each axle end fitted with a rotating axle head.

Versions are being produced of both the original four-door locomotives and low-emission five-door machines built from 2004 onwards, with original three-piece cab-side windows with separate quarter lights and later two-piece double-glazed, aluminium-framed versions.

There are four versions of headlight cluster and another four options for the top light with different depths of light box and light fittings.

Each model has a full complement of working lights, whilst for analogue users there are directional lights, independently controlled at either end, and a choice of day or night mode. DCC versions incorporate individual cab lighting and machine room lights.

There will be 12 locomotives in the range, with each available as SOUND FITTED and SOUND FITTED DELUXE versions and prices starting at £229.95. The following variants will be available:

• Class 66/0 66015 EWS.
• Class 66/0 66096 EWS.
• Class 66/3 66304 DRS Compass (Small Logo).
• Class 66/4 66422 ‘Max Joule 1958-1999’ DRS Compass (Small Logo).
• Class 66/5 66501 Freightliner 60 1965-2025 Freightliner Orange.
• Class 66/5 66515 Freightliner Green.
• Class 66/6 66601 Freightliner 60 1965-2025 Freightliner Green.
• Class 66/6 66606 Freightliner Green.
• Class 66/7 66761 ‘Wensleydale Railway Association’ GBRf Europorte.
• Class 66/7 66777 ‘Annette’ GBRf Europorte.
• Class 66/8 66847 ‘Terry Baker’ Colas Rail Freight.
• Class 66/8 66850 ‘David Maidment OBE’ Colas Rail Freight

The new models follow the release of OO scale models of Class 74 electro-diesel locomotives and Isle of Wight Steam Railway rolling stock and station for Bachmann’s EFE Rail range.