Hornby R062

British Rail Class 90 90018 British Rail Rail Express Systems Red & Graphite Grey

Contents

Tooling

The Hornby Class 90 in OO gauge was first introduced in 1988, representing British Rail’s modern AC electric locomotive designed for mixed-traffic duties on the West Coast Main Line. The model coincided with the prototype’s entry into service and was aimed at capturing the sleek, contemporary image of InterCity and sectorised operations during the late BR era.

Tooling Features

  • Construction: Plastic bodyshell with factory-fitted separate details; lightweight chassis incorporating metal parts for strength.
  • Detailing: Brecknell Willis high-speed pantograph, roof-mounted electrical equipment, bufferbeam detail, front valance, cab interior, footplate, and flush glazing. Underframe includes battery boxes and electrical gear representations.
  • Finish: Chemically blackened wheels for improved realism.

Mechanical & Electrical

  • Motor: Ringfield motor mounted in one bogie.
  • Drive: 4-wheel drive via the powered bogie; pickups on the power bogie only.
  • Power Collection: 2-rail DC, with a working pantograph for optional overhead supply.
  • Weighting: Incorporated within the chassis to aid adhesion.
  • Lighting: No factory lighting provision.

DCC Capability

The original tooling predates digital control and has no DCC socket or speaker provision. Conversion requires hard-wiring a decoder.

Liveries Produced

The 1988 tooling was used for a wide range of liveries reflecting BR sectorisation and later privatisation, including:

  • InterCity Executive and Swallow schemes (1980s–1990s).
  • Parcels Sector red/black.
  • Rail Express Systems (RES).
  • Railfreight Distribution grey.
  • Special “Freightconnection” promotional liveries (SNCB, DB, SNCF).
  • Virgin Trains, GNER, EWS, and other post-privatisation schemes.

Reviews & Commentary

At launch, the model was praised for its accurate outline and distinctive pantograph feature, though later reviews noted limitations such as basic underframe detail and the dated Ringfield motor. Enthusiasts often highlight its nostalgic appeal and suitability for upgrades, with many examples still running reliably decades later. Online forums and video reviews frequently describe it as a “solid performer for its era,” albeit lacking modern refinements like all-wheel pickup and DCC readiness.

Interesting Notes

  • The model included a functional pantograph, allowing operation from Hornby’s overhead catenary system—a rare feature among OO gauge electrics of the time.
  • Service Sheet 146 (issued in 1989) covered maintenance of the power bogie and wiring arrangements.
  • Despite its age, the tooling remained in production for many years, underpinning numerous limited editions and special promotional releases.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

Operator & Livery