RAPIDO TRAINS UK has selected the VIX ferry van as its first modern era wagon for 'OO' gauge with 12 different versions due for release across winter 2022/2023.
The VIX ferry vans were introduced in 1962 for use on cross-channel goods services. They were 42ft long with a 26ft 3in wheelbase and had both air and vacuum brakes. The diagram 1/227 fleet consisted of 400 vehicles built by Pressed Steel and BR which had a similar appearance to continental freight vans. Their use on cross-channel freight was short-lived as during the 1970s they were replaced by larger bogie vehicles, but the VIX fleet continued in service on domestic services as well as being used as barrier vans and for departmental duties.
The first of the VIX ferry vans were withdrawn in the 1980s with a number continuing in service in different forms as departmental vehicles. The last were removed from the national network in 2018 when the final three ex-Fastline vans were craned out of Peterborough yard.
Rapido's new VIX van will model the diagram 1/227 vehicles and feature all-new tooling for the body and underframe with extensive detail, NEM coupling pockets on sprung cams, opening sliding side doors, tooling for both original and later end styles and two types of wheel.
The price per wagon is set at £45.95 with 12 different vans being offered. They are:
- B786873 in BR bauxite - Cat No. 910001
- VIX GB787298 in BR bauxite - Cat No. 910002
- VIX B787213 in BR bauxite with Ferry Link logos - Cat No. 910003
- RBX B787170 in BR bauxite - Cat No. 910004
- VIX GB787252 in Railfreight red and grey - Cat No. 910005
- ZSX DB787181 in Railfreight red and grey - Cat No. 910006
- RBX B707178 in Railfreight red and grey - Cat No. 910007
- VIX 21 70 2380 249-9 in Railfreight International red and grey - Cat No. 910008
- ZSX B786980 in BR engineering Dutch grey and yellow - Cat No. 910009
- ZRX DB787218 in S&T olive green - Cat No. 910010
- ZYX LDB786913 in engineers olive green - Cat No. 910011
- ZJX KDB787210 in S&T Satlink red and yellow - Cat No. 910012
Rapido Trains UK has received the first engineering sample of the new ferry van model which is subject to revisions before it progresses to production.
Visit www.rapidotrains.co.uk for more information.
