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APT-E

D0260 'Lion'

D0280 'Falcon'

HS4000 'Kestrel'

'DELTIC'

DP2

DHP 1

APT-E (Advanced Passenger Train - Experimental) is a four car gas turbine/electric multiple unit used as a test bed for next generation trains. The major feature was the tilt mechanism allowing the train to go around curves on the existing railway at higher speeds. It is now preserved by the National Railway Museum at Shildon.

I have always wanted a model of this stunning futuristic looking train since I saw it on test runs in the 1970's on the Western Region. Fortunately, the NRM and Rapido Models of Canada are producing one! I have one on order and delivery is expected early 2016.

Well, here it is! Finally arrived on the 5th April 2016. Nicely packaged in a presentation box, the model came with a specially commissioned book on the APT-E as well as an instruction manual, written in a refreshingly light hearted and humorous manner.

I have only pictured one car here, PC1. Coupling up the other cars, TC1, TC2 and PC2, is very fiddly with multi-way connectors, body couplings and the side panels between cars. The manual recommends not to couple and uncouple the unit too often as it is delicate.

Rapido Trains have done an excellent job in capturing 'the look' of the prototype. This is where laser scanning comes in useful. The detail and finish is also first class, apart from one thing. It doesn't show on this photograph, but the shade of yellow on the end part of the nose cone is a different shade to that under the window. Also the fit of the nose cone could have been better.

My model is factory fitted with sound, mastered by Legomanbiffo. Running performance is very smooth, quiet and controllable. The headlights and tail lights seem to fade up and down when changing direction, which does look good. The sound is very good as you would expect from Legomanbiffo, if not a bit loud! Think I might turn that down a bit. I do like the way the gas turbines spool up before the train moves, brings back a few memories.

One thing to be careful of is the prodigious overhang of the cab section. The model is correct, it really is like this, but if you're going to run it around train set curves, beware of it hitting platforms, bridge abutments and tunnel mouths, not to mention side swiping other trains!

All in all, an excellent model that I can see perhaps winning Model of the Year. It is a bit pricey on the face of it, but you are getting a four car train manufactured to a very high standard with DCC sound included, that's £100 odd just by itself!