We're delighted to share another progress update on our EXCLUSIVE range of LNER Robinson Class A5 4-6-2T (GCR Class 9N) steam locomotives in N Gauge from Sonic Models!
We have just received additional early decorated samples in the British Railways black liveries - which give you a great indication as to how the final models could look. The full range is available to pre-order now for release in Q1 2027 - representing this fascinating large tank locomotive in Great Central Railway, LNER and BR liveries.
As with Sonic's other releases in both OO and N Gauge, this new A5 is set to feature an impressive specification, with intricate detailing, a powerful mechanism, digital capability and even a firebox flicker glow effect!
A £30 upfront deposit is required for these locomotives, with the final balance being taken when they arrive into stock.
About These Decorated Samples
While there are some changes yet to be made and refinements to make, these new decorated samples represent progress since our last update with various enhancements made to the model during this time. We hope to have further updates for you soon prior to release.
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Product Features
Highly detailed model with separately fitted parts
Accurate tooling variations for different domes, whistles, smokeboxes, coal bunkers, cab sides/ windows and sandbox wrappers
Digital capability - 6-pin right-angled decoder
Powerful mechanism with driving wheel pickups and rear pony truck pickups
Working firebox flicker effect
NEM Standard N Gauge Couplings
Intricate livery application and printing
Prototype Information
44 of these powerful locomotives were built over a 15 year period from 1911-1926 and the last was withdrawn in 1960.
Designed by the Great Central Railway’s Chief Mechanical Engineer John G Robinson to tackle suburban trains operating from the company’s London terminus at Marylebone, they were originally designated Class 9N, however after grouping the LNER reclassified them A5.
The last-built locomotives, built after grouping, were assigned to north east England and under the LNER other members of the class were used more widely – on suburban services from King Cross, around Bradford and on the former London Transport lines between Aylesbury and Rickmansworth.
Following nationalisation those A5s still on Marylebone trains were transferred to Lincolnshire and on to Darlington and Hull. The last was withdrawn in November 1960.