Production is also moving to a different factory and is expected to be completed in late 2025. Revised specifications include a die-cast chassis and bogie frames with rotating axle centres, etched grilles with representation of the radiator equipment, interchangeable buffer beam detailing with autocoupler option. The entire buffer beam assembly can be swapped out if desired.
Electrically these models will feature a raft of lighting options, with operational head and tail lights at both ends, day and night running modes, plus cab, control panel and engine room lighting. Models will be powered by twin motors with dual PLUX22 decoder sockets and the option of twin or quad speakers.
Models will be available in Digital Command Control (DCC) Ready, DCC fitted, DCC sound fitted and DCC spatial sound. DCC sound fitted versions will feature one ZIMO sound decoder and one Dapol Imperium decoder and be fitted with twin speakers whilst spacial sound models will have two ZIMO sound decoders and four speakers: models will also feature Dapol’s ‘real drive’ feature.
Six models form the initial range, starting with 66001 in English Welsh & Scottish Railway (EWS) red and yellow (Cat No: 7D-066-001), 66504 in Freightliner Powerhaul (7D-066-002), 66709 in GB Railfreight (GBRf) Sorrento MSC livery (7D-066-003), 66421 Gresty Bridge TMD in revised Direct Rail Services ‘compass’ (7D-066-004), 66789 British Rail 1948-1997 in GBRf BR large logo blue (7D-066-005) and 66783 The Flying Dustman in GBRf Biffa red (7D-066-006).
In addition two exclusive models are set to be produced, 66009 in DB Cargo red as part of the Gaugemaster Collection (GM7210404) and last-built 66779 Evening Star in GBRf BR lined brunswick green (7D-066-007DS), the latter as a Rails of Sheffield exclusive.
Due to the revised specification and increased costs since the initial announcement, the models’ price has been increased. Prices are set at £395 for DCC Ready models, £460 for DCC fitted models, £540 for DCC sound fitted models and £615 for DCC Spatial Sound fitted models. Decorated samples are anticipated in early 2025, with delivery anticipated towards the end of the year.
◘ Visit www.dapol.co.uk for more information.
