Hornby R30166

British Rail Class 91 91110 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Virgin Trains East Coast Battle of Britain

Contents

Tooling

In 2022, Hornby unveiled a completely retooled Class 91 for OO gauge, representing a major leap forward from previous iterations. This new tooling was designed to meet modern expectations for accuracy, performance, and digital capability. The release coincided with renewed interest in East Coast Main Line operations and the enduring popularity of the InterCity 225 sets, which remain iconic in British railway history.

Tooling Features

  • Construction: Highly detailed plastic bodyshell with separately fitted parts; die-cast chassis for strength and weight.
  • Detailing: Etched nameplates, Brecknell Willis high-speed pantograph (poseable), roof electrical equipment, underframe detail, sprung buffers, and detailed cab interior with driver figure.
  • Working Features: Retractable buffers on No.1 end; poseable pantograph (cosmetic only).

Mechanical & Electrical

  • Motor: Centrally mounted 5-pole skew-wound motor with twin brass flywheels.
  • Drive: All-wheel drive and pickups for smooth performance.
  • Weighting: Heavy die-cast chassis for improved traction.
  • Lighting: Directional LED headlights and tail lights, cab lighting, and day/night modes.

DCC Capability

The 2022 tooling is DCC Ready with a 21-pin socket and provision for a 20x40mm speaker, making sound installation straightforward. Factory sound-fitted versions were also offered in later batches.

Reviews & Commentary

The 2022 retooling was widely praised for its accuracy, fine detailing, and vastly improved running qualities. Reviewers highlighted the smooth performance from the all-wheel drive and flywheel-equipped motor, as well as the inclusion of modern features like LED lighting and DCC sound capability. Social media and forums noted that this model finally delivered the premium specification enthusiasts had long requested, making it a standout in Hornby’s modern electric range.

Interesting Notes

  • The retooling was accompanied by new Mk4 coaches and Driving Van Trailers, enabling complete InterCity 225 formations.
  • Hornby offered commemorative and limited-edition versions, including charity and heritage liveries.
  • Sound installations are simplified thanks to the 21-pin socket and dedicated speaker space.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 91110
  • Name: Battle of Britain Memorial Flight

The British Rail Class 91 represents Britain's most advanced domestic electric locomotive, holding the 161.7 mph national speed record since 1989. Built at BREL Crewe Works between 1988-1991, these 31 locomotives pioneered unique body-mounted traction motors derived from Advanced Passenger Train research. Operating InterCity 225 services with Mark 4 coaches and Driving Van Trailers, the class served six operators across 36 years on the East Coast Main Line. Despite 140 mph design capability, signalling regulations limited operational speed to 125 mph. LNER currently operates 12 examples, with final withdrawal scheduled by end of 2028 when CAF Class 897 tri-mode units arrive. Hornby's exceptional 2022-tooled OO gauge models feature 21-pin DCC, five-pole motors, all-wheel drive, and directional LED lighting across multiple liveries from InterCity Swallow through GNER, Virgin Trains East Coast, and current LNER oxblood claret.

Operator & Livery