TOOLING UP FOR A NEW HST

Dapol will produce its proposed ‘N’ gauge prototype HST – but only if enough modellers sign up to the scheme. What makes this announcement more significant than the aborted 2015 prototype HST power car launch (MR215) is that Dapol plans to produce the full 12 cars. The train will be split into four distinct packs. The two power cars, 41001 and 41002, will come as a pack, with one powered and one unpowered. They will feature controllable lights and a Next18 DCC socket. The powered model will feature Dapol’s Supercreep motor. Dapol will produce all-new tooling for the four Trailer First and four Trailer Second coaches. They will feature recessed door handles, correct windows and roof and will lack the door locking indicators of the contemporary Mk 3 range. The Mk 3s will come in two packs: one pack contains TFS 11000 and 11001 and TSS 12000 and 12001 and the other will include TFS 11002 and 11003 and TSS 12002 and 12003. The final pack will contain Trailer Buffet 10000 and Trailer Kitchen 10100. However, due to the costs involved, these will be standard Dapol Mk 3 buffet cars finished in prototype HST livery. A fifth pack will be available containing the two power cars but in Departmental livery with yellow noses and the numbers 975812 and 975813. This model is only available to order via the Dapol website (www.dapol.co.uk) and will only go ahead if enough orders are placed. Prices have yet to be confirmed.