Sonic Models has produced an all-new model of the BR VIX Ferry Van for 'OO' gauge. We reveal the new model in our exclusive launch video and you can read the full story here.
SONIC MOELS has revealed it is producing a 'OO' gauge ready-to-run model of the BR VIX Ferry Van with immediate availability from retail partner Rails of Sheffield.
The VIX Ferry Vans were introduced in 1962 with a total 400 built at Ashford Works over the next two years. They were designed for cross-channel freight and were they were much longer than standard BR domestic wagons of the time measuring almost 42ft in length and featuring a 26ft 3in wheelbase - more than double that of a standard BR 12ton van with a 10ft chassis.
The appearance of the vans was similar to European rolling stock of the time and they had a large central sliding door and they were also dual braked from introduction to cater for operation on both sides of the channel. Initially they carried BR bauxite based liveries, but they also carried BR Railfreight red stripe grey in the 1980s.
The life of the VIX vans in revenue earning service came to an end in the late 1970s with the arrival of more modern bogie vans, but their dual brake equipment made them useful for departmental service. The last was stood down in the 1990s with examples having carried BR olive green, Satlink red and yellow and BR Dutch grey and yellow.
The Sonic Models 'OO' gauge Ferry Van models the vans throughout their life span and features small tension lock couplings, turned metal wheels, an injection moulded body and chassis plus separately fitted handrails throughout. Ten versions have been produced in the first batch modelling: GB786873 and GB786930 in BR plain bauxite, B787110 and B787153 in BR early bauxite with Ferry Link logos, B787190 and B786951 in BR late bauxite with Ferry Link logos, B787151 and B786974 in BR Railfreight red stripe grey, DB786944 in BR Railfreight Departmental red and grey and DB876980 in BR Dutch grey and yellow.
All ten versions are available to order from Sonic Models exclusive retail partner, Rails of Sheffield, with prices set at £39.95.
