At the International N Gauge show, Dapol provided a short update on the status of the long awaited SR West Country / Battle of Britain class Light Pacifics.
First announced in 2012, the Light Pacifics have had a somewhat protracted development, but new CAD images have now been released by Dapol which suggests progress is being made, although release is expected to be 2024 at the earliest.
Dapol will initially be producing the the as built locomotives with airsmoothed casing, the rebuilt locomotives will follow in a later run.
The models promise to be Dapols first 'Next Generation' steam locomotive, with entirely re-deigned chassis & electronics. The models will also incorporate Dapol's new locomotive mounted motor for "excellent slow running and pulling power".
The full list of features is as follows:
Powerful new locomotive mounted motor
Electrical pick up from all locomotive and tender wheels
Diecast chassis and locomotive body, injection moulded tender body
Partial chassis compensation for smooth running and to aid electrical pickup
Stainless steel running gear
Standard NEM couplings
Detailed body & fittings
Printed name plates
Accessory bag with etched nameplates and details buffer beam fittings
Proposed liveries:
2S-034-001 21C164 'Fighter Command' SR Malachite green
2S-034-002 34055 'Spitfire' BR green, late crest
2S-034-003 34110 '66 Squadron' BR green, early crest
2S-034-004 21C113 'Okehampton' SR Malachite green
2S-034-005 34030 'Watersmeet' BR green, late crest
2S-004-006 34001 'Exeter' BR green, early crest
The RRP for DCC ready versions is £206.95, for DCC fitted £238.00 and for DCC sound fitted £341.55