Bring the fascinating world of British Rail's Research Department to your OO Gauge layout with this special three-model bundle, featuring our exclusive 'Test Unit Gemini' alongside two matching BR Railway Technical Centre Mk1 coaches!
During the 1970s and early 1980s, British Rail's Railway Technical Centre (RTC) at Derby was home to an incredible variety of experimental vehicles, test trains and specially converted coaching stock. These distinctive vehicles, many wearing the eye-catching BR Research Department red and blue livery, played an important role in developing the technology behind the modern railway.
This special bundle brings together three of our exclusive Bachmann releases, representing some of the most interesting vehicles associated with the RTC.
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What's Included in the Set?
Bachmann 32-515Z – 'Test Unit Gemini' – A highly unusual two-car battery electric multiple unit (BEMU), originally built as a Derby Lightweight DMU before being converted for experimental battery operation. Following its earlier career in Scotland, it became 'Laboratory 16' at Derby, where it remained in departmental service until 1984.
Bachmann 39-001S – Mk1 BSK 'Test Car 5' (ADB975051) – A specially converted Research Department coach that was used in various testing programmes, including supporting the development of the Advanced Passenger Train (APT).
Bachmann 39-001V – Mk1 BSK 'Laboratory 12' (RDB975136) – Another distinctive RTC vehicle, used primarily for acoustics testing and research associated with the APT programme during the 1970s.
A Fascinating Piece of Railway History
Although 'Test Unit Gemini' and the two Mk1 research coaches did not operate together as a single train, all three represent vehicles associated with the Railway Technical Centre at Derby during the same period.
Their matching red and blue liveries make them a particularly attractive collection, perfect for recreating the atmosphere of the RTC, a railway research facility or a departmental depot scene.
Whether you're modelling the BR Blue era, building a collection of unusual departmental vehicles or simply looking for something different, this exclusive bundle is a fantastic way to celebrate a fascinating chapter of British railway innovation.
All three models are produced by Bachmann in OO Gauge and are exclusive to Rails of Sheffield.