Hornby R3053

British Rail Class 90 90021 First ScotRail Blue

Contents

Tooling

Hornby launched a major retooling of its British Rail Class 90 in 2008, replacing the earlier versions with a significantly improved model aimed at meeting modern expectations for detail and digital capability. This upgrade coincided with growing demand for accurate representations of contemporary electric traction and was positioned as a premium offering in Hornby’s range.

Contemporary reviews praised the improved body detailing, flush glazing, and accurate roof equipment. The addition of NEM coupler pockets and DCC readiness was welcomed, though some criticism remained regarding the single-bogie drive and lack of lighting or sound provision. Enthusiasts often describe it as “a solid mid-range model” that looks excellent but offers only modest mechanical sophistication compared to later high-spec competitors. Social media and forums highlight its reliability and ease of digital conversion, making it a popular choice for modern layouts.

Detailing: Factory-fitted separate details including Brecknell Willis high-speed pantograph (poseable), roof electrical gear, bufferbeam detail, front valance, cab interior, flush glazing, and underframe equipment such as battery boxes and electrical housings. Chemically blackened wheels for enhanced realism.

Class & Prototype

  • Running Number: 90021

The British Rail Class 90 electric locomotive, built 1987-1990 at BREL Crewe, delivered 5,000 hp from 25kV AC overhead supply through sophisticated thyristor control. Fifty locomotives served BR InterCity, Virgin Trains, Greater Anglia, and freight operators across 37 years. Pioneer of Time-Division Multiplexing push-pull operations, the class worked West Coast and East Coast main lines at 110 mph with Mark 3 coaching stock. Over 35 liveries span InterCity Swallow through privatisation operators to contemporary Freightliner freight. Bachmann's 2019 OO gauge tooling features world-first servo-operated pantograph; Graham Farish offers excellent N gauge versions. Approximately 30 remain operational.

Operator & Livery