[17th June 2023] Bachmann Europe has announced the release of a range of eight all-new OO scale models of the Newton Chambers Car Carriers in its EFE Rail range.
Manufactured in 1961 by Newton, Chambers & Co., these double-deck bogie vehicles were originally delivered to British Railways’ Eastern Region. A total of 14 units were built, each capable of carrying six cars – two on the lower deck and four on the upper deck. They were constructed and registered to the International Union of Railways standards, enabling them to operate on train ferry services to the continent, although they were primarily utilized for Anglo-Scottish train routes.
Equipped with steam heat pipes and vacuum brakes initially, some of the car carriers were modified in the mid-1970s to include through Electro-Pneumatic train heating (ETH) capabilities, with all of them having this feature by the early 1980s when Mk3 Sleeping Coaches were introduced.
The car carriers were originally in BR Lined Maroon livery, showcasing ‘Eastern Region Car Transporter’ lettering. However, after the introduction of ‘Motorail’ services in 1966, they were repainted in BR’s corporate Blue & Grey scheme, featuring ‘Motorail’ branding.
Initially designated as TCV (Two-Tier Motor Car Van), their TOPS code later changed to NVV after the addition of vacuum brakes, and finally to NVX once both vacuum and air brakes were incorporated. Withdrawals of these vehicles began during the 1980s, and by the end of that decade, all of them had been taken out of service.
The models have finely-moulded panel lines throughout and accurate end detailing to capture the vehicles’ distinct character. The models faithfully recreate the unique features of the bogies, including the intricate details of the axle boxes and spring leaf suspension. These bogies are equipped with complete brake gear push/pull rods and safety loops that are individually fitted between the frames.
To guarantee seamless operation, the models are equipped with precise pinpoint metal wheels. Additionally, a tension lock coupling is securely mounted through an-NEM socket, which is integrated into a close-coupling mechanism in the vehicle’s floor.
The initial releases of these models offer two options for buffer beam arrangements. One variant accurately represents the vehicles as originally built, featuring vacuum brakes and through-pipes for steam heating. The other option depicts the car carriers in their dual-braked configuration, equipped with ETH capabilities.
Available as individual models, the models are now in production with delivery expected towards the end of 2023 with an RRP of £59.95 each.
