Hornby R240

Tooling

The Hornby Class 91 in OO gauge debuted in 1990 to coincide with British Rail's East Coast Main Line electrification programme. The prototype locomotives, known as InterCity 225 or "Electras," were designed for 140mph express passenger services. Hornby’s model captured the sleek, modern image of these AC electrics during the late BR sectorisation era, offering enthusiasts a contemporary high-speed electric for their layouts.

Tooling Features

• Construction: Plastic bodyshell with factory-fitted separate details; lightweight chassis incorporating metal parts for strength.
• Detailing: Brecknell Willis high-speed pantograph (poseable, unpowered), roof-mounted electrical gear, cab interior, flush glazing, and underframe representations.
• Couplings: Fixed tension-lock type; no NEM pockets on early releases.
• Working Features: Cosmetic pantograph could collect current from Hornby’s overhead system, though most users operated via track power.

Mechanical & Electrical

• Motor: Ringfield motor mounted in one bogie.
• Drive: 4-wheel drive via powered bogie; pickups on power bogie only.
• Power Collection: 2-rail DC (optional overhead via pantograph).
• Weighting: Incorporated within chassis for adhesion.
• Lighting: No factory provision for directional or cab lighting.

DCC Capability

The original tooling predates digital control standards. It is DCC compatible but has no socket, requiring hard-wiring for conversion. No speaker provision for sound installations.

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 describe it as a “solid performer for its era,” with reliable running when maintained. Lack of lighting and limited pickup were common criticisms. Today, it retains nostalgic appeal and is popular for upgrades, including DCC hard-wiring and lighting retrofits.

Interesting Notes

• The model supported Hornby's overhead catenary system—a rare feature among OO gauge electrics of the time.
• Service Sheet 147 (1989) covered maintenance of the power bogie and wiring arrangements.
• Many examples remain in use on layouts decades later, often as part of full InterCity 225 formations with Mk4 coaches and Driving Van Trailers.

Class & Prototype

No prototype found.

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.