Rails of Sheffield has announced a new ‘OO’ gauge exclusive model from Bachmann, modelling the experimental ‘Test Unit Gemini’ Battery Electric Multiple Unit.
The British Rail two-car unit was a purpose-built Derby Lightweight Battery Electric Multiple Unit (BEMU) running initially in Scotland on the Deeside Railway from Glasgow to Ballater. It was powered by numerous lead acid batteries.
After withdrawal and time in storage the unit was transferred to departmental use as a test train. It was known as ‘Test Unit Gemini’ or ‘Laboratory 16’ and saw use at the Railway Technical Centre at Derby, being repainted into red and blue livery. The unit was withdrawn in 1984 and bought for preservation. The unit is currently at the Royal Deeside Railway in Scotland where it is being refurbished.
Rails of Sheffield’s exclusive 'OO' gauge model represents the prototype when it was in departmental use as ‘Test Unit Gemini’. The model is set to feature a three-pole motor, interior and directional lighting, numerous separately-fitted detailing parts and more. Two eight-pin Digital Command Control (DCC) decoders will be needed for full lighting control.
Decorated samples of the exclusive two-car unit have been received by Rails of Sheffield and pre-orders are being accepted now.
Priced at £269.95 per two-car set, delivery is anticipated during December 2024.
◘ Visit www.railsofsheffield.com for more information.
