Accurascale ACC2283

British Rail Class 89 89001 British Rail InterCity Swallow

Contents

Tooling

The British Rail Class 89 was a unique prototype electric locomotive built in 1986 by Brush Traction for high-speed services on the East Coast Main Line. Nicknamed the "Badger," only one example (89001) was produced, making it a cult favourite among enthusiasts. In 2022, Accurascale, in partnership with Rails of Sheffield, announced an all-new OO gauge model of this distinctive Co-Co locomotive. This marked the first ready-to-run representation of the Class 89 in 4mm scale, with delivery commencing in 2025 after extensive development and tooling work.

Early reviews from Model Rail and online platforms praise the model’s exceptional detailing, smooth running, and innovative features such as the DCC-controlled pantograph and lighting suite. Social media and YouTube channels (e.g., Piccadilly Model Railways, New Junction) highlight its premium specification and accurate representation of the prototype. While priced at a premium (£229.99 DCC-ready, £329.99 sound-fitted), feedback suggests strong value given the bespoke nature and limited production run.

The tooling accommodates subtle prototype variations across liveries, including rooftop aerials and removal of unused TDM jumper cables. Each model is supplied in a collector’s presentation box, reflecting its status as a one-off locomotive in British railway history.

Detailing: Includes wire handrails, Brecknell-Willis high-speed pantograph, underframe tanks, pipework, bufferbeam detail, and cab interior with painted controls and glazing. Screw-link couplings for display.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 89001

The British Rail Class 89 represents Britain's only six-axle AC electric locomotive, built as a production prototype at BREL Crewe Works in 1986. Locomotive 89001, nicknamed "The Badger," featured innovative Co-Co wheel arrangement delivering 4,286 kW (5,748 hp) and 125 mph capability for mixed-traffic operations. Though designed for East Coast Main Line electrification, policy changes favouring InterCity 225 fixed formations left the locomotive an orphan prototype. After BR service (1988-1992) and GNER ownership (1997-2000), the locomotive entered preservation with the AC Locomotive Group. Comprehensively restored, 89001 successfully returned to mainline running in September 2025. Accurascale's exclusive OO gauge models, available through Rails of Sheffield, offer five authentic liveries spanning InterCity Executive, InterCity Swallow "Avocet," GNER variants, and current preservation appearance in DCC Ready (£229.99) and DCC Sound (£329.99) specifications.

Operator & Livery

British Rail InterCity was the premium express passenger brand that operated from 1966 to 1997, transforming long-distance rail travel across Britain. Initially launched as a marketing brand for high-speed services, InterCity became an autonomous business sector in 1982 under the sectorisation programme, operating profitable express services from London to Scotland, Wales, the West Country, and extensive cross-country routes.

The brand pioneered revolutionary rolling stock including the iconic InterCity 125 HST (High Speed Train) from 1976, which achieved 125mph operations on existing infrastructure, and the electric InterCity 225 sets from 1989, capable of 140mph but limited to 125mph in service. InterCity also developed the ground-breaking Advanced Passenger Train (APT) with tilting technology that influenced modern high-speed trains worldwide.

Distinguished by its evolving livery schemes - from Rail Blue and Grey through the sophisticated Executive livery with dark grey upper bodies and red stripes - InterCity became synonymous with quality, speed, and reliability. All day services featured buffet cars and the majority operated at 100mph or above, making British Rail one of the world's most intensive high-speed operators.

The brand was divided among multiple operators during railway privatisation in the 1990s, but its technical innovations, operational excellence, and commercial principles continue influencing modern rail services. InterCity remains hugely popular with railway modellers, with extensive ranges of locomotives and coaching stock available in all major scales from manufacturers like Hornby, Bachmann, and Heljan.