We're delighted to reveal final production samples of our upcoming BR Mark 1 RTC Coaches 'Laboratory 12' and 'Test Car 5' from Bachmann in OO Gauge!
These models pair together perfectly to recreate test trains and engineers workings. These two new coaches are set to arrive between April and May 2026 and join a growing range of these popular Research Department vehicles in OO Gauge - including our own exclusive Bachmann model of ' Test Unit Gemini' - the experimental Battery electric multiple unit.
Pre-Order Now - 'Test Car 5'
This exclusive release of Bachmann’s Mark 1 coach represents BR’s Railway Technical Centre coach ‘Test Car 5’ (RDB975051). Converted in late 1972 from a standard BSK coach, this vehicle spent several years in use with the Research Department, including a spell used as a support vehicle for testing the Advanced Passenger Train (APT) power cars.
Pre-Order Now - 'Laboratory 12'
This model represents BR’s Railway Technical Centre coach ‘Laboratory 12’ (RDB975136). Converted in late 1972 from a standard BSK coach, this vehicle spent several years in use with the Research Department, mainly used as an acoustics testing vehicle and also in the development of the APT (Advanced Passenger Train) in the late 1970s.
Product Features
Highly detailed model with separately fitted parts including handrails, buffers and underframe relief
Fully detailed interior
Metal wheels and axles
Intricate livery application & printing
NEM tension lock couplings
ALSO CHECK OUT OUR OTHER RTC EXCLUSIVE
This train was powered by many lead-acid batteries, and was used on the Deeside Railway from Aberdeen to Ballater in Scotland from April 1958 until it was finally withdrawn in December 1966. The train then spent a short time in storage at Inverurie Works, and at Hyndland Shed in Glasgow, before being transferred to departmental use as test train "Gemini" (or "Laboratory 16") for use at the Railway Technical Centre, at Derby. It lasted in this role until it was withdrawn in 1984. Our EXCLUSIVE model is based on Bachmann's original 2011 Derby lightweight DMU tooling.
Our BEMU model is as close as possible to replicating this unique prototype as the tooling will allow. You can order this fascinating piece of experimental railway history now in pristine or weathered forms!