Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Showbus 2009

Mon Sep 28 2009

Monday 28 September 2009: Pictures taken inside the EFE Marquee at the 2009 Showbus Rally. Pictures include shots of the new models announced, 1:24 Scale RF, and general pictures of he various display cabinets. Click the main picture to show at full size.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Britbus AEC Swifts

Sun Aug 2 2009

Sunday 2 August 2009: Britbus AEC Swifts

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Sunstar Routemaster Models

Sun Aug 2 2009

Sunday 2 August 2009: Sunstar Routemaster Models

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Sunstar Bedford OB Coaches

Sun Aug 2 2009

Sunday 2 August 2009: Sunstar Bedford OB Coaches

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bannarit Rittaporn Specialist Model Maker

Sat Aug 1 2009

Saturday 1 August 2009: Bannarit Rittaporn is a Model Maker and vehicle designer based in Thailand. Some of his coach models are illustrated below, along with the the real vehicles. Bannarit also produces other models of commercial vehicles and Rolls Royce cars, more of his work can be viewed on his www.bannarit.com website.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Ergomatic Cab Lorries

Sun Jun 21 2009

Sunday 21 June 2009: Ergomatic Cab Lorries

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Gilbow Railway Collection Accessories

Mon Jun 8 2009

Monday 8 June 2009: A range of street & station furniture, some of which can also be used a backloads for the EFE range of lorries. Pictures show contents of each pack. All pictures kindly supplied by Exclusive First Editions

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Tube Trains

Fri Feb 6 2009

Friday 6 February 2009: Tube Trains

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Showbus 2008

Mon Sep 29 2008

Monday 29 September 2008: Pictures from inside the EFE Marquee at the Showbus Rally held on 28 Septmber 2008. Please Note must of the models shown are early pre-production samples and may still be subject to changes before final release.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Regent RLH Lowbridge Double Deck Bus

Thu Apr 3 2008

Thursday 3 April 2008: AEC Regent RLH Lowbridge Double Deck Bus

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Forthcoming Models

Thu Mar 27 2008

Thursday 27 March 2008: Official EFE photographs of the forthcoming model releases. Some of these show early Pre-production samples and may differ slightly from the final production models that are released.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bedford TK Lorries

Thu Feb 14 2008

Thursday 14 February 2008: Bedford TK Lorries

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Recent EFE Model Releases

Thu Dec 27 2007

Thursday 27 December 2007: This Collection holds pictures of the most recent EFE model releases, after a period of time these shots will be transfered to the main model type collection folders.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Pre war Leyland STD Double Deck Bus

Wed Sep 26 2007

Wednesday 26 September 2007: London Transport placed an order for 100 double deck buses with Leyland in 1937, the vehicles STD1-100 had metal bodies that were similar to those specified for the earlier STL class despite this there were still a number of subtle differences which included a small window on the rear off-side in the stairwell and a more curved lower edge to the driver windscreen. The STD code is thought to have come from a combination of S from STL and TD from the Leyland Titan TD4 type. Other reports also suggest it may stand for "Short Type Diesel". The first 90 vehicles had the standard Leyland 8.6 litre oil engine and crash 4 speed constant mesh gearbox the remaining 10 had a Lysholm-Smith torque converter. This variation allowed comparison of the two transmissions systems which resulted in the clash box being deemed the superior and leading to the other 10 eventually being converted to match their sisters. The vehicles spent most of their working life on routes operated by Hendon (AE) garage and were easily identified by the distinctive deep throb of their engines. During the war years a number of vehicles were dispatched to the country area to replace Green Line coaches that had been converted into ambulances, however they didn't find favour and were soon returned to the central area where some were eventually allocated to Cricklewood garage. After the war all the STD's returned to Hendon, their original livery of red with white window surrounds and silver roof was replaced by the new style livery of red with cream upper deck windows, in their final years in service this was further simplified to all red with just a cream between decks band. In 1951 Hendon received new RTL's for its route 13 allocation leading to some of its STD being reallocated to Enfield (E) depot where they replaced war time G class utilities. The class remained in passenger service at both Enfield and Hendon until 1954, a few examples survived as trainers until 1955 . On withdrawal some went to other operators and contractors for further service while others were completely scrapped or had the original bodies replaced with truck ones for use in LT ancillary fleet. Sadly none of the vehicles have survived into preservation. The STD class was expanded with additional members during and after the war. 11 examples (STD101-111) based on the TD7 chassis were acquired with utility Park Royal bodies in 1942 and after the war in 1946 a further 65 (STD112-176) almost standard Leyland Titan PD1 vehicles were bought as a temporary measure to cover a vehicle storage that existed before delivery of the new RT's got underway in 1947. The post war vehicles have already been modeled by EFE and form the 202 series.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Showbus 2007

Mon Sep 17 2007

Monday 17 September 2007: A collection of pictures showing the forthcoming model releases announced by EFE at the annual Showbus International Rally. Some of the pictures are bit below par but will hopefully still provide a reference source. To see the full size image use the option button below each image.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Ford Thames Trader Trucks

Thu May 31 2007

Thursday 31 May 2007: The Thames Trader range of trucks were introduced in the late 1950's and remained in production until the mid 1960's. EFE release their first Trader truck model in May 2007. 328xx Ford Thames Trader Short Two Axle Tipper Truck

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Mark V Trucks

Sun Apr 1 2007

Sunday 1 April 2007: AEC Mark V Trucks

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemaster Short Front Entrance RMA

Mon Dec 18 2006

Monday 18 December 2006: The short front entrance Routemaster supplied to B.E.A. and later aquired by London Transport as the RMA class

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemaster Long Front Entrance RMF

Mon Dec 18 2006

Monday 18 December 2006: The long version of the front entrance Routemaster supplied to Northern General

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemaster Short RMC Coach

Mon Dec 18 2006

Monday 18 December 2006: The short version of the Green Line Routemaster Coach (RMC)

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Showbus 2006

Tue Sep 26 2006

Tuesday 26 September 2006: A selection of pictures taken inside the EFE Marquee at the 2006 Showbus. Please note most of these models are pre-production samples and may still be subject to alteration. The truck models show new cab and body combinations planned for 2007. The AEC mark V truck was present but wasn't photographed. The 1/24th Metrobus shown was an early resin pattern. More pictures of the bus & coach models shown at Showbus can be found on the Worldwide Models Buses site -http://worldwidemodelbuses.fotopic.net/p34401635.html

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bristol RELH ECW Coach

Mon Sep 25 2006

Monday 25 September 2006: The coach version of the Bristol RELH introduced to the EFE range in September 2006

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

RTW Pictures

Sun Aug 20 2006

Sunday 20 August 2006: Pictures of a preserved RTW & RT Bus

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Gilbow 1:24th Scale DMS

Mon Feb 27 2006

Monday 27 February 2006: Gilbow's 1:24th Scale London Transport Daimler Fleetline DMS was a joint venture with Drumwell with the first UK release appearing in February 2006

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Atkinson Knight Trucks

Sat Dec 24 2005

Saturday 24 December 2005: Atkinson Knight Truck Models

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Regent (London RT) Double Deck Bus

Fri Nov 25 2005

Friday 25 November 2005: London RT Bus 101 AEC Regent III RT Double Deck Bus 102 Open Top AEC Regent III RT Double Deck Bus 164 Roof Box AEC Regent III RT Double Deck Bus

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leeds Horsefield Trams

Thu Nov 3 2005

Thursday 3 November 2005: Leeds Horsefield Double Deck Trams 134xx Leeds Horsefield Tram with Bow Collector 143xx Leeds Horsefield Tram with Pole Collector

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bristol Lodekka FLF Double Deck Buses

Thu Nov 3 2005

Thursday 3 November 2005: Bristol Lodekka FLF Double Deck Buses 139xx Bristol Lodekka FLF Double Deck Bus (Late Radiator, No CBC Vents) 140xx Bristol Lodekka FLF Double Deck Bus (Late Radiator, CBC Vents) 141xx Bristol Lodekka FLF Double Deck Bus (Early Radiator, CBC Vents) 142xx Bristol Lodekka FLF Double Deck Bus (Early Radiator, NoCBC Vents)

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Highbridge Leyland Titan PD1 & PD2

Thu Nov 3 2005

Thursday 3 November 2005: Leyland Titan PD1 & PD2 Highbridge Double Deck Buses 159xx Highbridge Leyland Titan PD1 Double Deck Bus 161xx Highbridge Leyland Titan PD2 Double Deck Bus 202xx Highbridge Leyland Titan PD1 Double Deck Bus With Roof Box 311xx Highbridge Leyland Titan PD2 Double Deck Bus With Roof Box

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Lowbridge Leyland Titan PD1 & PD2

Thu Nov 3 2005

Thursday 3 November 2005: Leyland Titan PD1 & PD2 Lowbridge Double Deck Buses 158 Lowbridge Leyland Titan PD1 Double Deck Bus 160 Lowbridge Leyland Titan PD2 Double Deck Bus

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemasters (RM Class)

Sun Oct 30 2005

Sunday 30 October 2005: Short AEC Routemaster Double Deck Buses 156xx Short AEC Routemaster (RM) Double Deck Bus 178xx Short Open Top AEC Routemaster (RM) Double Deck Bus (Without Route Blinds) 179xx Short Open Top AEC Routemaster (RM) Double Deck Bus (With Route Blinds) 31501 Retooled Short AEC Routemaster (RM) Double Deck Bus

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Daimler Fleetline MCW & Park Royal Double Deckers

Sun Oct 16 2005

Sunday 16 October 2005: Both versions covered here first appeared in the range in 1994. The models all share the main body casting from the Leyland Atlantean (165), the only variation being a different casting for the rear engine. The MCW version has a engine bustle, while the Park Royal version has engine shrouds producing a flush rear side profile. 180xx MCW Daimler Fleetlie Double Decker 182xx Park Royal Daimler Fleetlie Double Decker The Fleetline was Daimler's first rear engined double deck chassis. Introduced in the late fifties the Fleetline was to continue in production until the mid 1970's, by which time Daimler had been absorbed into the state owned Leyland Truck and Bus organisation. The early MCW and Park Royal bodies shared similar designs and were popular choices for many operators experimenting with one man operated buses, or replacing older rear entrance crew vehicles. These particular body designs remained in production until the late 60's. In 1965 London Transport decided to carry out an experiment comparing the Fleetline and Leyland Atlantean rear engined double deckers. Only eight Park Royal bodied Fleetlines were purchased, and these were allocated to the Country area's East Grinstead garage where they operated route 424. These XF class vehicles all passed to London Country Bus services in 1970, where they continued to operate mainly on route 424 until their withdrawal in the early 1980's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland Atlantean MCW / Park Royal Double Deckers

Sun Oct 16 2005

Sunday 16 October 2005: The only difference between the Park Royal and MCW versions of the model is the type of rear engine bustle castings used. The Park Royal version has additional side shrouds giving a smooth rear profile. The MCW model was launch into the range during December 1993 followed six months later by the first Park Royal version. 165xx MCW Leyland Atlantean Double Deck Bus 181xx Park Royal Leyland Atlantean Double Deck Bus The Leyland Atlantean was the first successful rear engined bus design to be developed, like the Daimler Fleetline that appeared shortly after, it was a popular choice, of what has become known as the first generation of rear engined buses. The Atlantean remained on Leyland books for well over 20 years with the last examples appearing in the early 1980's, in all over 15,000 examples were built. MCW were one of the first body builders to offer bodywork for this new type of bus, however in the life of the Atlantean most body builders supplied bodywork at some time or other. During the mid 1960's London Transport carried out trials of both the Atlantean and Fleetline, both versions being bodied by Park Royal with bodywork closely resembling the MCW design. The 50 Atlanteans bought by LT formed the XA class, following the trails LT decided to adopt the Fleetline as their standard rear engine type, the 50 XA's were withdrawn and all subsequently ended up in Hong Kong.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Metro-Cammell Orion Double Deckers

Sun Oct 16 2005

Sunday 16 October 2005: The EFE Orion models are all based on the early 27 feet 6 inch variant, with the traditional open rear platform. The AEC Regent V (197) and the Daimler CVG6 (198) both have full width tin radiator cowls, while the Leyland Titan PD2/12 (200) has the older style exposed radiator. All three EFE versions share the same upper, and main lower deck castings, the only difference being the casting used for the bonnet or tin radiator cowl. All three versions had their debut in 1995, with a steady flow of models following until 1999, after which only the occasional issue has occurred. 197xx AEC Regent V Metro-Cammell Orion Double Decker 198xx Daimler CVG6 Metro-Cammell Orion Double Decker 200xx Leyland Titan PD2/12 Metro-Cammell Orion Double Decker The M.C.W. Orion double deck body design was introduced in the late 1950s and remained in production until the late 1960s. The design was popular mainly with smaller provincial operators, although some larger better known operators also choose the type. The body design could be fitted to number of different chassis, which included products from AEC, Daimler, Guy and Leyland amongst others. Most of the bodies incorporated a 'tin radiator cowl' which was basically a full width bonnet and front panel. However the Leyland Titan could also be supplied with the older style exposed radiator. The radiator cowls varied in design depending on the chassis manufacturer, each having its own distinctive look. The original Orion bodies were built to the then maximum length of 27 feet 6 inches, but later versions were increased to the new legal limit of 30 feet. The Orion was available with the traditional open rear platform or could be supplied powered platform door.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bristol VRT Double Deck Buses

Fri Oct 7 2005

Friday 7 October 2005: The EFE VRT can be produced as either a mark II or mark III version this is achieved by using different castings for the front grille and engine compartment. The closed top versions were the first to appear with the mark II making it's debut in December 1995 followed in March 1996 by the mark III. The Open top versions both share the same top deck casting with the first issue of mark III coming in April 1997 followed by the mark II in July 1998. 185xx Bristol VRT Series 2 Open Top Double Deck Bus 186xx Bristol VRT Series 3 Open Top Double Deck Bus 203xx Bristol VRT Series 2 Double Deck Bus 204xx Bristol VRT Series 3 Double Deck Bus The Bristol Commercial Vehicle Company developed the VR rear engine design in the mid 1960's. The first VR's were however somewhat trouble some, the in-line vertical engine proving a major problem. Thankfully these VRL's were soon replaced by a more reliable transverse engine version which was classified the VRT. The VRT was produced in three versions, the mark I that had a flat windscreen, the mark II that featured a curved windscreen, and the most popular mark III version that featured a redesigned radiator grille and rear engine cover. Bristol VRT's were the standardized double deck type for most operators within the National Bus Company, however examples of the type also found favour with several municipal operators. Almost all the VRT's were bodied by Eastern Coach Works, although some operators specified small batches with body designs by other builders. Convertible open top versions of the ECW bodied VRT were popular with several National Bus Company operators who operated coastal services. Southdown had several batches of such vehicles that operated seasonal open top services during the summer period, and then had the roofs re-fitted during the winter months allowing operation of normal services.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

London RTL Double Deck Bus

Wed Oct 5 2005

Wednesday 5 October 2005: EFE's third double deck model is a simple modification of the original RT. The only difference between the models is the baseplate and the replacement of the AEC radiator with a Leyland one. The first three releases came in the RTL Bus Set 19903 which was released in mid 1990. The roof box version made it's debut in 1996 in a London Transport Commissioned set. Surprisingly to date no standard issue versions have been released. 111xx London RTL Double Deck Bus 228xx London RTL Double Deck Bus with Roofbox London Transport in the post World War II period standardized it's double deck fleet on the RT. However in a bid to speed up delivery of new vehicle, a decision was taken to find another chassis supplier to supplement AEC. Leyland was chosen and a special version of the manufactures successful Titan PD2/1 chassis was produced. This was known as PD2/7RT and was fitted with the same bodywork as the RT. The combination was given the class code RTL by London Transport and between 1948 and 1954 a fleet of 1631 examples were delivered. The RTL's provided almost 20 years of service in the capital with the last examples being withdrawn from service in 1968.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Manchester Style MCW bodied Leyland Atlantean & Daimler Fleetline

Wed Oct 5 2005

Wednesday 5 October 2005: These models are very similar to the original MCW Fleetline and Atlantean castings (165 & 180) the only major differences between the two types being a new curved windscreen and the redesigned front panel below it. The only difference between the Fleetline & Atlantean versions is the type of engine bustle fitted. Both versions of the model made there first appearances in the range in 1998, 24701 in June and 25401 in August. 247xx MCW Manchester Style Leyland Atlantean 254xx MCW Manchester Style Fleetline he Manchester MCW double deck body was a revised version of the bodybuilders original rear engine design. The name came from the fact that this new style was originally built for the City of Manchester Transport Department. Manchester was not however the only operator to purchase such vehicles, both Devon General and Plymouth City Transport also operated sizable numbers in the South West. A number of other varied operators across the country also purchased small quantities of this design.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemaster Buses (RML)

Wed Oct 5 2005

Wednesday 5 October 2005: The RML entered the range 1998 and like the other London models, has proved a popular choice for commissioned releases. The RML casting is expected to under go a major retooling during 2006. 255xx Long AEC Routemaster (RML) Double Deck Bus The RML made it's first appearance on the streets of London in 1961 when a trail batch of 24 vehicles (RML880-903) entered service from Finchley Garage. The only major difference between the RM and the RML was the addition of a centre half bay which allowed seating capacity to be increased from 64 to 72. The trails were deemed a success and from fleet number 2218 to 2760 all production switched to the lenghtened design. The RML class vehicles under went a major modernization programme in the early 1990's and the class was to remain more or less intact until 2003 when Transport for London finally decided to to make a start on replacing all the remaining Routemasters. It is now expected that the last of the type will disappear for the streets of the capital sometime in late 2005.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemaster Coaches (RCL)

Wed Oct 5 2005

Wednesday 5 October 2005: The first RCL model was released in 1998, the RCL can be produced with either single or twin head lamps although only one example of the lformer has so far been released. Like the other London models, this has proved a popular model with commissioners. The RCL along with the other Routemaster models are expected to under go a major retooling during 2006. 256xx Long AEC Routemaster (RCL) Double Deck Coach The RCL class consisted of one batch of vehicles (RCL2218-2260) which were produced to replace the remaining RT's on Greenline services. These vehicles were fitted with power operated rear doors, and also had more comfortable seating and twin front head lamps. The green RML's and RCL's passed to the National Bus Company subsidy London Country at the beginning of 1970. However in the early 1980's many of these RML's & RCL's were re-purchased by LT for further service in the capital. The RCL vehicles lost there distinctive twin head lamps before re-entering service however.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

War Time Utility Double Deckers

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: EFE have chosen to model four Utility types. The Guy Arab I / II, Bristol K, and Daimler CW, the difference between each of the models, is limited to the radiator, front mudguards, and bonnet area, while all versions share the same upper and main lower deck castings. The Guy Arab II has proved the most popular version, which reflects the situation with the real vehicles. All the versions first appeared in 1999. 262xx Guy Arab I Utility Double Decker 263xx Guy Arab II Utility Double Decker 264xx Daimler Utility Double Decker 265xx Bristol Utility Double Decker The utility double decker was a product developed during the Second World War to counter the growing shortage of double deck buses. Most bus production had been halted or highly restricted during the early war years, with bus chassis manufactures and body builders being instead involved in production of essential military equipment. However it soon became clear that the combination of enemy action, aging vehicles, and shortages of parts was affecting operators ability to maintain services. The Ministry of Supply thus allowed selected manufactures, including Guy, Bristol, Daimler and Leyland to produce bus chassis', while a limited number of bodybuilders were allowed to build bodies to a highly restrictive specification. These bodies were built using un-seasoned timber, limited interior paneling, and the design also omitted any non essential radiussed sections, allowing a saving in scarce materials and labour time. From the passengers point of view, comfort wasn't a high priority, as most of the vehicles were supplied with rather basic wooden slated seats. These buses were allocated by the Ministry to operators on a need to have bases, with various combinations of body and chassis types appearing in many urban fleets across the country. The poor quality materials used in the utility bodies, meant that most had a short life in their original form. During the 1950's many operators re-bodied or withdraw these vehicles has soon as possible. The Utility type was used by London Transport between 1942 and the the early 1950's. Deliveries included 9 Bristol K5, 281 Daimler CWA6 / CWD6, and 435 Guy Arabs, some of the later deliveries had less austere styling, which allowed radiussed rear roof domes. Virtually all the London vehicles were used on Central Area routes, although some Daimlers did find their way onto the Greenline network when it was re-introduced following its wartime suspension.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Daimler Fleetline DMS Double Deck Buses

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: EFE have so far produced seven versions of the DMS, the original London two door version with engine shrouds, two post London Transport single door versions, either with or without engine shrouds and two open top versions. A B20 version with a new modified engine bustle was introduced in late 2005. The first three versions were all added to the range in 1999 with the shroud-less single door version following in 2002. The fifth version released in 2000 is based on the original London dual door version, but was produced without upper deck seats as a code 2 model for China Motor Bus in Hong Kong. This and more surprisingly the open top versions, have so far been limited to just single releases. 257xx Daimler Fleetline Daul Door with Shrouds 258xx Daimler Fleetline Single Door without Shrouds 261xx Daimler Fleetline Dual Door Open Top with Shrouds 274xx Daimler Fleetline Dual Door with Shrouds (No upper deck seats) 279xx Daimler Fleetline Dual Door Open Top without Shrouds 280xx Daimler Fleetline Dual Door without Shrouds 291xx Daimler Fleetline Single Door without Shrounds 313xx Daimler Fleetline Dual Door with B20 Engine Bustle The Daimler Fleetline with M.C.W. or Park Royal bodywork was London Transports first standardized front entrance, one man operated double decker. The DMS class was first introduced in 1971, and over the next seven years 2646 examples followed, mainly being used to replace the crew operated RT class. The design was almost unique to the London area, with only South Yorkshire PTE taking similar new vehicles in any quantity. However this situation was set to change as London Transport soon found its DMS buses to be less reliable than had been hoped, indeed early examples of the class were already being withdraw before the final new deliveries had completed. With the introduced of the M and T class second generation rear engine vehicles, LT began full scale replacement of the DMS class in the early 1980's, the final London Fleetlines being withdrawn from normal stage services in the early 1990's. Operators facing de-regulation in the mid 1980's were quick to snap up these youthful London rejects. Many of the ex London examples were converted to single door layout, with examples appearing in fleets large and small across the whole of the UK. Some vehicles were even exported to Hong Kong. Open top conversions of the DMS vehicles were popular with a number of London Sightseeing Tour operators, who between them converted and operated sizable fleets until the late 1990s.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland Titan TD1 Double Deckers

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: Currently the oldest double deck type represented in the range, the Leyland Titan TD1 models are currently available in three versions. The open staircase version first appeared in February 2000 followed in January 2001 by the enclosed staircase model. Finally in September 2003 a third version with enclosed staircase and high piano front was added to the range. The most recent version resembles more closely the vehicles operated by some larger operators, such as Southdown. The TD1's were the first double deck models to include starting handles and interior lower deck ceiling detailing. 272xx Leyland Titan TD1 With Open Staircase (Low Piano Front) 273xx Leyland Titan TD1 With Enclosed Staircase (Low Piano Front) 273xx Leyland Titan TD1 With Enclosed Staircase (High Piano Front) The Leyland Titan TD1 was launched at the 1927 Commercial Motor Show, initially only available with Leylands own low height Open staircase body. The model was a instant success with major operators across the United Kingdom placing orders. The extra low overall height design was achieved by using an upper deck sunken gangway on the off side with four across bench seating. The lower deck also featured a centre gangway which was slightly recessed between the chassis frames. However this design was less than ideal, with unsuspecting lower deck passengers in danger of receiving a painful reminder of the intruding gangway over the off side seats. By 1929 vehicles were being built with Leyland's less draughty enclosed staircase body, and this soon became the standard for the type. The TD1 chassis was also available to a wide variety of other bodybuilders who fitted their own distinctive designs of body. Although the TD1 version only remained in production until 1931, it was the first of a long line of Titan models. The last TD7 was built in 1942, but the Titan PD series which followed, continued in production in various versions until 1968.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Regent STL Double Deck Buses

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: The first EFE STL was released in May 2001, initally only available with a roof box, it wasn't until June 2003 that a version without was released. All but one of the releases so far have depicted the models in London Transport liveries. Like other London double deck models in the range the STL has proved a popular base for serveral commissioned releases. The versions available are as follows : 277xx AEC STL without Roof Route Number Box 278xx AEC STL with Roof Box Number Box The first STL's entered service in London in 1933, by the end of production in 1942 over 2600 had been built. Early examples lacked the distinctive roof route number box. The STL's were mainly replaced by the new post war RT's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Alexander 'A' bodied Leyland Atlanteans & Daimler Fleetlines

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: Versions 235 and 237 of the Atlantean Alexander 'A' were both introduced to the range in during 1997, with 224 and 281 following in 2000 and 2002. All the versions of the Fleetline released so far, were introduced during 1997/8. Three versions of the body can be produced with different front grille designs (Type A, B or C), in addition each can be poduced with either a flush rear or engine bustle giving a total of 12 possible varations in all. 224xx Alexander A Atlantean with Flush Rear (Type B) 235xx Alexander A Atlantean with Flush Rear (Type A) 237xx Alexander A Fleetline with Rear Bustle (Type A) 238xx Alexander A Atlantean with Rear Bustle (Type A) 242xx Alexander A Fleetline with Rear Bustle (Type C) 244xx Alexander A Fleetline with Flush Rear (Type A) 245xx Alexander A Fleetline with Rear Bustle (Type B) 281xx Alexander A Atlantean with Rear Bustle (Type C) Walter Alexander the Scottish bodybuilder has a long history of producing successful designs. The 'A' type double decker was introduced in the mid 1960's and was originally supplied to Glasgow Corporation, the design employed curved glass and fibre glass panels to improved the vehicles looks. Although the design was popular with traditional Scottish operators, it was soon to appear in many different fleets across the UK. The 'A' type under went several design revamps during it's time in production, this externally was most visible around the front and rear panels. The Falkirk factory continued to offer the 'A' type until the late 1970's when it was finally replaced by the new 'AY' series.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland Titan Dual Door Double Deckers

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: The dual door version of the Titan first appeared in the range in 2002, a single door version based on a converted version of the original London dual door bus was added to the range in May 2007. 288xx Leyland Titan TN15 Dual Door Double Deck Bus 292xx Leyland Titan TN15 Single Door Double Deck Bus The Leyland Titan was developed in close collaboration with London Transport. The prototype entered service with LT in 1976 and after successful trials LT placed a major order for the type. First production vehicles entered service in 1978, with LT eventually building up a fleet of just over 1120 of the T class. Unfortunately for Leyland the Titan proved very unpopular with other operators. Only a handful of operators bought small trial batches, with none choosing to purchase anymore. The last of the London Titan's were withdrawn from the capitals streets in 2003, however many of the type have found their way into the fleets of independent operators up and down the country, some of these have been converted to single door layout.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

GM Standard Atlanteans & Fleetlines

Sun Oct 2 2005

Sunday 2 October 2005: EFE have chosen to model three version of the GM Standard double decker, both the Daimler Fleetline and Leyland Atlantean mark 1A versions, and also the final 'Light Alloy' version of Leyland Atlantean bodywork. The differences between the Fleetline and Atlantean models are restricted to the rear engine bustles, however the two Atlantean versions only have a subtle difference, this being the shape of the centre pillar between the two upper deck front windows. All three versions were added to the range in late 2002 or early 2003 286xx GM Standard Leyland Atlantean Double Decker (Type A) 289xx GM Standard Leyland Atlantean Double Decker (Type B) 290xx GM Standard Daimler Fleetline Double Decker (Type B) The GM Standard became the main double deck design adopted by Greater Manchester PTE in the early 1970's. Initally the mark 1 version of the bodywork was built by both Park Royal and Northern Counties on the two most popular chassis' of the time, the Leyland Atlantean and Daimler Fleetline. The curved windscreen version modeled by EFE is known as the mark 1A and the majority of this version were built by Northern Counties, however Park Royal built 160 between 1977-9. In all over 1000 1A versions were built, the Northern Counties versions accounted for 815 this total and were built between 1974 and 1980. These were split between Leyland Atlanteans (559) and Daimler Fleetlines (256). A third version of the Northern Counties body was introduced in 1981 and this is known as the 'Light Alloy' as the name suggests this featured the use of lighter materials in it's construction. By the end of production in 1984 nearly 400 of this type had entered service in Manchester. After de-regulation in the mid 1980's Greater Manchester PTE found it necessary to down size it's fleet, many of the older GM Standards were thus withdrawn from service in Manchester. This glut of relatively cheap second hand double deckers proved a popular choice with both large and small operators across the UK, who around this time were looking for suitable stock to either start new services, or defend existing routes.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland Olympian Double Deckers

Sat Oct 1 2005

Saturday 1 October 2005: The first Olympian model 29602DR was released at the 2003 Showbus Rally. The EFE Olympian can be produced in three versions, version A & C are based on the Roe version of the bodywork the only major difference between the two being the shape of the front windscreen. Version B is based on the ECW design which following the closer of the bodybuilders Lowestoft factory was adopted by Leyland as the basis for it's own version of the bodywork. 293xx Leyland Olympian Double Decker (Type A - Roe) 296xx Leyland Olympian Double Decker (Type B - ECW/Leyland) 297xx Leyland Olympian Double Decker (Type C- Roe) The Olympian was a simplified design based loosely on Leyland Titan. The chassis was produced in various versions by Leyland and later Volvo from the 1980's until the late 1990's. The Olympian was only dropped by Volvo when low floor buses became the standard. The Olympian was bodied by a wide range of third party body builders, however a standard ECW and Roe design was a common choice, particularly with the National Bus Company. With the closure of these long established concerns in the late 1980's the body design was adopted by Leyland's own bodybuilders.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Routemaster Prototypes (RM Class)

Sat Oct 1 2005

Saturday 1 October 2005: Two versions of prototype Routemaster were introduced into the range during 2004, to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of the famous London bus. These models have the original bonnet designs which were used on the first two experimental prototypes, RM1 and RM2. 302xx Prototype Routemaster (RM) Double Decker (No Radiator Grille) 303xx Prototype Routemaster (RM) Double Decker (With Radiator Grille) 316xx Retooled Prototype Routemaster (RM) Double Decker (No Radiator Grille) The first prototype Routemaster made it's debut in 1954, this new vehicle was designed by LT and was intended to build on the success of the earlier RT, RM1 originally appeared with a solid front grille, however by the time it and the second prototype finally entered passenger service in 1956, both had received a revised front radiator grille that bore a closer resemblance to the actual production vehicles. The Routemaster was the successor to the RT, and like in predecessor it was designed by London Transport to handle the rigours of service in the capital. The first production vehicles entered service in 1959, replacing trolleybuses at Popular and West Ham garages. In all over 2100 standard length Routemasters entered service between 1959 and 1964.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Mammoth Major Mark III Trucks

Sat Oct 1 2005

Saturday 1 October 2005: EFE AEC Mammoth Major Mark III Diecast Model Trucks

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

ERF KV Trucks

Sat Oct 1 2005

Saturday 1 October 2005: The latest truck casting from EFE is the ERF KV, the first release of which occured in late September 2005. EFE intend to produce more vehicles using the full range of existing truck bodies. 312xx ERF KV 4 Axle Flatbed Truck The ERF KV range was introduced in the 1950's and was built at the companies Cheshire plant in Sandbach with the KV remaining in production until the 1960's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Foden S24 Trucks

Sat Oct 1 2005

Saturday 1 October 2005: This was the first of the four new truck cabs announced at the 2004 London Toy Fair to be released. The first version appeared in September 2005 in the form of the 4 axle flatbed truck 31001. It is expected that the existing range body and chassis types will over time be used for future releases of this truck. 310xx Foden S24 4 Axle Flatbed Truck Edwin Foden perfected a compound steam traction engine in 1880 and continued to experiment with steam wagons until 1900 when he produced the successful overtype boiler vehicle. This was the forerunner of a long line of successful steam vehicles which were produced until 1931. The first diesel lorries were added to the range in 1931 and were like many of the vehicles produced since were fitted with Gardener engines. The Foden S24 cab was introduced in the 1960's and remained in production at Sandbach until the early 1970's. Foden trucks are still in production today although production ended at the original Sandbach factory in 2000. Foden was acquired by the American PACCAR Inc group in the late 1970's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Showbus 2005 (NEW MODELS)

Sun Sep 18 2005

Sunday 18 September 2005: A selection of photograph's taken in the EFE Marquee at the 2005 Showbus Rally. Pictures show all the new forthcoming model samples, the newly announced B20 version of the DMS casting, plus a couple of pictures of an early version of the surprise 1:24th scale DMS that will be released in the Gilbow range later this year.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Renown Double Deckers

Sun Sep 18 2005

Sunday 18 September 2005: EFE latest bus casting is the AEC Renown which comes in three versions. The first model was released at the 2005 EFE Showbus Rally (30701) this was followed by the first releases of the second version in November (30601/2). A Roe bodied version followed in May 2007 this lacks the rear emergency door found on the original pair of Park Royal bodied versions. 306xx AEC Renown Double Deck Bus (Type A - Sliding Cab Door/ Park Royal bodywork) 307xx AEC Renown Double Deck Bus (Type B - Hinged Cab Door / Park Royal bodywork) 308xx AEC Renown Double Deck Bus (Type C - Hinged Cab Door / Roe Bodywork) The AEC Renown was AEC's last front engined half cab, when bodied it bore a close resemblance to the earlier Bridgemaster although beneath the body the Renown used a traditional chassis whereas the Bridgemaster used an integral system similar to that developed for the Routemaster. Unfortunately for AEC the Renown like it predecessor the Bridgemaster proved less successful than had been hoped. The era of the half cab was fast drawing to a close by the 1960's with the new rear engined Atlanteans and Fleetlines finding favour with more & more operators who now wanted buses suitable for one man operation.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Harrington Grenadier Coaches

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The Grenadier Coach was introduced into the EFE range in November 1991, it was the second single deck coach in the range and followed a few months after the Cavalier coaches. The model comes in two versions - 122xx Harrington Grenadier with Roof Destination Box 123xx Harrington Grenadier without Roof Destination Box The Grenadier design was Harrington's last new coach body being introduced during the 1960's. The Hove based Harrington business closed down in the late 1960's

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Harrington Cavalier Coaches

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The Harrington Cavalier coaches were the first single deck model in the EFE range with the first two releases appearing in August 1991. A Harrington Grenadier model followed a few month's later. The Cavalier model comes in two versions : 119xx Harrington Cavalier with Roof Destination Box 121xx Harrington Cavalier without Roof Destination Box The Cavalier coach bodies were built by the Hove based Harrington's and fitted to chassis's from a range of different manufacturer's during the 1960's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland National Short Mark 1 Buses

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The short mark I National models are all based on a 10.3 metre long bus. The first models were produced as single door versions with the first model appearing in late 1992. The first dual door version followed a year later. 16605DR is a long dual door version of the mark I National which was issued in this series by mistake. It should have been in the 150xx series. 16702DR was issued in the series for models with long roof pods but has the shorter pod and should therefore have really been in the 166xx series. 144xx Leyland National Short Mark 1 (Single Door with Short Roof Pod) 146xx Leyland National Short Mark 1 (Single Door without Roof Pod) 166xx Leyland National Short Mark 1 (Dual Door with Short Roof Pod) 167xx Leyland National Short Mark 1 (Dual Door with Long Roof Pod) The Leyland National single deck bus was developed as a joint venture between British Leyland and the National Bus Company during the late 1960's. The First production examples entered service in the early 1970's, and soon became the standard single deck bus for almost all the National Bus Company fleets. The modular design of the National allowed for easy modification of the vehicle spec, allowing various lengths and door options to be produced. The original Leyland National design was updated during the early 1980's resulting in the National mark II. The earliest production vehicles had a large roof mounted air conditioning pod which was soon replaced by a more compact version. A cheaper version of the original design was also produced which omitted the expensive roof air conditioning pod, this was known as the Series B.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland National Short Mark 2 Buses

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The single door version of the short Leyland National mark II made it's first appearance in mid 1993 with first dual door version following at the end of the same year, all the model variations are based on an 10.6 metre version of the real National. 147xx Leyland National Short Mark 2 (Single Door with Short Roof Pod) 149xxLeyland National Short Mark 2 (Single Door without Roof Pod) 169xx Leyland National Short Mark 2 (Dual Door with Short Roof Pod) The Leyland National single deck bus was developed as a joint venture between British Leyland and the National Bus Company during the late 1960's. The First production examples entered service in the early 1970's, and soon became the standard single deck bus for almost all the National Bus Company fleets. The original Leyland National design was updated during the early 1980's resulting in the National mark II. The main difference was the re-positioning of the radiator from the rear to the the front grille, which gave the vehicles their distinctive front bustle. The National production finally ceased in the late 1980's when following de-regulation, the demand for large single deck vehicles was at an all time low.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Plaxton Panorama Elite Mk 2 Coaches

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The first release occurred in 1993 followed in the next 12 months by 9 more, there have only been a handful of new releases since, however the first seven were all re-worked and re-issued in the De-luxe Series. A second version with a front roof mounted destination box (often called a Bristol Dome) was introduced into the range in February 2004. 157xx Plaxton Panorama Elite Mk II Coach 295xx Plaxton Panorama Elite Mk II Coach with Bristol Dome The Panorama mark II was introduced by Plaxton's in the early 1970's and was one of the first designs to take advantage of new legislation allowing 36ft long vehicles. The design was mounted on various chassis including Leyland Leopard, Bedford and AEC Reliance. Both independent and major operators bought the design in large numbers until the Plaxton Supreme suspended it in the later part of the 1970's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bristol MW ECW Coaches

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: This model was the first in the range to feature cove roof windows, it first entered the range in 1993, and a steady flow of releases has continued since. Two models have been released as Bristol LS versions, although the only difference with these is the description on the box! 163xx Bristol MW Single Deck Coach The Bristol MW coach was a familiar sight on the roads of England and Wales during the 1960's, used mainly by the Tillings group of companies over 2000 were built in the ten years of its production. The vehicles were used mainly on long distance express routes. The famous Royal Blue network centered on the south west of England was a regular haunt for these classic vehicles.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bristol LS ECW Single Deck Buses

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The Bristol LS single deck bus was produced around the same period as the Bristol MW. The vehicle was adopted as the standised single deck type by the Tilling group of companys. The vehicles entered service in the 1950's with many remaining active well into the 1970s. 163xx Bristol LS Single Deck Bus The Bristol LS model was added to the range at the end of 1993. The majority models have been issued in the somewhat plain Tillings red and green style liveries, this has resulted in most issues looking almost identical apart from fleetnames and route details. However within this mass of red and green several more distinctive releases can be found, such as those for Wilts & Dorset and Midland General.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland National Long Mark 1 Buses

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The Long mark I is based on an 11.3 metre vehicle and was originally available as a dual door version with first issue appearing in 1992. The first single door version followed two years later in 1994. The long mark I versions have been by far the most popular issues of all the various National models. NOTE : Model issue 17401DR is a Long Mark II version which should have been correctly issued in the reserved 177xx series. 15107DR has a short roof pod and should therefore have been issued in the 150xx series along with 16605DR which ended up in the series for short versions! 150xx Leyland National Mark I (Long Dual Door with Short Roof Pod) 151xx Leyland National Mark I (Long Dual Door with Long Roof Pod) 172xx Leyland National Mark I (Long Single Door with Short Roof Pod) 173xx Leyland National Mark I (Long Single Door with Long Roof Pod) 174xx Leyland National Mark I (Long Single Door without Roof Pod) The Leyland National single deck bus was developed as a joint venture between British Leyland and the National Bus Company during the late 1960's. The First production examples entered service in the early 1970's, and soon became the standard single deck bus for almost all the National Bus Company fleets. The modular design of the National allowed for easy modification of the vehicle spec, allowing various lengths and door options to be produced. The original Leyland National design was updated during the early 1980's resulting in the National mark II. The earliest production vehicles had a large roof mounted air conditioning pod which was soon replaced by a more compact version.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Leyland National Long Mark 2 Buses

Sat Sep 17 2005

Saturday 17 September 2005: The dual door version of the long Leyland National mark II made it's first appearance in 1999 with first single door version following in 2001, both model variations are based on an 11.6 metre version of the National. NOTE : The first example of the single door version without roof pod was issued incorrectly in the 174xx series, however subsequent releases have correctly been given catalogue numbers in the reserved 177xx series. 153xx Leyland National Long Mark 2 (Dual Door with Short Roof Pod) 175xx Leyland National Long Mark 2 (Single Door with Short Roof Pod) 177xx Leyland National Long Mark 2 (Single Door without Roof Pod) The Leyland National single deck bus was developed as a joint vehture between British Leyland and the National Bus Company during the late 1960's. The First production examples entered service in the early 1970's, and soon beacme the standard single deck bus for almost all the National Bus Company fleets. The original Leyland National design was updated during the early 1980's resulting in the National mark II. The main difference was the re-positioning of the radiator from the rear to the the front grille, which gave the vehicles their distinctive front bustle. The National production finally ceased in the late 1980's when following de-regulation, the demand for large single deck vehicles was at an all time low.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

BET Style Half Cab AEC Regal & Leyland Tiger TS8 Single Deckers

Thu Sep 15 2005

Thursday 15 September 2005: These models are currently the oldest single deck subjects in the range, both the Leyland Tiger TS8 versions were first released in 1994. A modified model with a new AEC Radiator and front mudguards was added to the range in 1996. Two versions of each model are possible with either a small or large front destination blind box, the AEC Regal has appeared in both versions, but these have both been issued in the same 205 series unlike the TS8 which uses two separate series. 183xx Leyland TS8 Half Cab BET Style Single Deck Bus (Small Destination) 184xx Leyland TS8 Half Cab BET Style Single Deck Bus (Large Destination) 205xx AEC Regal Half Cab BET Style Single Deck Bus (Large Destination) This classic half cab single deck design was during the 1930's a sight commonly seen on the roads of Britain. The BET (British Electric Traction) owned many well known operators across the country, and these types of vehicles were particularly popular with companies based in the north, where they were often to be found on rural services feeding into larger towns. Leyland & AEC were two of the leading chassis suppliers during the 1930's, the TS8 & Regal were competing designs and were popular with both large & small operators a like. These vehicles were bodied by various body builders, and as such there was only a low level of standardization in the design, with each builder having their own distinctive features.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bedford OB Duple Vista Coaches

Thu Sep 15 2005

Thursday 15 September 2005: After introduction into the range in 1995, nearly 20 releases appeared within the first 2 years, making this the must numerous of the coach models. The number of releases has now reduced to 2 or 3 per year. 201xx Bedford OB Duple Vista Coach The Bedford OB very much represents the heyday of British Coach Travel, this small 29 seat coach proved the ideal vehicle for many operators in the early post World War II years. The classic coach was a popular choice from the late 40's until the early 50's, many active examples still exist in the hands of preservationists today.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Dennis Dart (Volvo B6) Plaxton Pointer Buses

Wed Sep 14 2005

Wednesday 14 September 2005: The 9.8 metre Dennis Dart with Plaxton Pointer bodywork was the first single deck model of a then current production vehicle to appear in the range. One model has been released depicting a Volvo B6 bus, the Mainline model remains unique in this repect. The original design which is represented by model 206 was replaced by the Super Low floor Plaxton Pointer 2 shortly after the model made it's debut. The low floor Dennis Dart was produced in conjunction with New World First Bus and so far this has remained the only version. It is intended however that this model will eventually become part of the standard range. 206xx Dennis Dart Plaxton Pointer Single Deck Bus 269xx Dennis Dart SLF Plaxton Pointer 2 Single Deck Bus The Dart produced by Britain's only remaining chassis builder Dennis is mostly found combined with a Plaxton Pointer body. This combination has become one of the most common types of single deck vehicle in use in the UK today. The original version was replaced by a new low floor Dennis Dart SLF with revised Plaxton Pointer II body in 1997 and this remains in production today. These particular vehicles can be found operating with both large and small operators across the UK. The Dart was originally designed as a midibus available in 8.5, 9, and 9.8 metre lengths, but the vehicle lengths have grown as operators demanded more capacity, the SLF version is now available in lengths ranging from 8.9 to 10.2 metres.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

BET Style 1950's Single Deck Buses

Wed Sep 14 2005

Wednesday 14 September 2005: The first release of this model was made at the September 1997 Showbus Rally. The releases have so far featured a good selection of operators both large & small, with a colourful variety of liveries. The original version (243xx) was joined in 1999 by a Willowbrook version (271xx), the only difference between the models is the windscreen fitted. However the Willowbrook issues have so far been somewhat inaccurate, as both the real vehicles depicted were built on a longer chassis. 243xx 1950's Style BET Single Deck Bus (Roe / Weymann) 271xx 1950's Style BET Single Deck Bus (Willowbrook) The British Electric Traction group was by the 1960's one of the major forces within the UK bus industry. Like it's rival the Tillings Group it also developed a vehicle programme which standardized types across it's various operating companies. The BET style bodywork was built to almost indistinguishable designs by various body builders including Roe, Weymann & Willowbrook. Various chassis manufacturers were chosen by different operators, the Royal Tiger and Tiger Cub were supplied by Leyland, while rival AEC offered the Regal IV & Reliance. Albion were also popular with many operators. These vehicles remained in service well into the late 1960's and after withdrawal by their original owners many provided several more years service with independent operators.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bedford SB Duple Vega Coaches

Tue Sep 13 2005

Tuesday 13 September 2005: The model entered the range in 1995, clever use of tempo printing allows several different styles of side paneling to be represented. Tempo printing is also used on some releases to represent front or side cove roof windows. After an initial flood of 11 releases in 1995 and early 1996, only a couple new variants have appeared since. 187xx Bedford SB Duple Vega Coach The Bedford SB Chassis and Duple Vega Coach body proved another winner for the manufactures when introduced in the mid 1950's, This coach with around 40 seats was in many ways a replacement for the earlier OB Coach. The higher capacity vehicles were welcomed by many operators during the late 1950's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Mercedes Benz 609D & Dodge S56 Minibuses

Tue Sep 13 2005

Tuesday 13 September 2005: Both versions of the Mercedes Benz 609D first made an appearance in 1998, with the Renault S56 following in 1999. The Dodge versions are some of the rarest releases, to date only two have appeared, both with large destinations. 248xx Mercedes Benz 609D Reeve Burgess Mininus (Large Destination) 249xx Mercedes Benz 609D Reeve Burgess Mininus (Small Destination) 259xx Dodge S56 Reeve Burgess Minibus (Small Destination) The minibus was seen as the revolutionary way to deal with the de-regulation of services and the privatization of the National bus Company, Passenger Transport Executives and many municipal operators in the mid 1980's. Various minibus designs were produced and all were originally based on conversions of commercial light vans such as the Ford Transit, Mercedes Benz and Dodge (later re-branded Renault). Minibuses offered a cheap way to try out new services, and after de-regulation a cost effective way to counter the new competition in the industry. Many operators such as Thames Transit, Badgerline, and Devon General built up large fleets, numbering hundreds of such vehicles. The Mercedes Benz 609D was one of the more popular types, with Reeve Burgess developing the Beaver conversion for this and also the Renault / Dodge S56 chassis. The parent Plaxton named replaced Reeve Burgess in the early 1990's. The minibus revolution however lasted less than 10 years, the vehicles proved to have a short life span and operators soon found that passengers preferred better designed vehicles which offered extra comfort and easier access. The development of custom built vehicles like the MCW Metrorider, and the Dennis Dart allowed operators to opt for more robust and larger capacity vehicles. By the turn of the millennium the small minibus was becoming a rare sight in the fleets of UK bus operators.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Bristol RE ECW Buses

Tue Sep 13 2005

Tuesday 13 September 2005: The Bristol RE had been a model high on many collectors wanted list. EFE answered the requests in 1998 with the launch of three versions of the Bristol RELL. The Eastern Coach Works body style with the flat windscreen was the first to appear followed shortly afterwards by the single head lamp curved windscreen version. The third and so far most popular release has been the twin head lamp version with curved windscreen which made its first appearance at the 1998 Showbus Rally. EFE produced a fourth version in the form of a Bristol RELH Coach which was added to the range in 2003. This version has a single rear window and high backed coach seats. 250xx Bristol RELL ECW Single Deck Bus (Flat Windscreen) 251xx Bristol RELL ECW Single Deck Bus (Curved Windscreen) 252xx Bristol RELL ECW Single Deck Bus (Twin Headlamps) 294xx Bristol RELG ECW Dual Purpose Single Decker Bus The Bristol RE series of buses were the last single deck vehicles to carry their manufactures famous name. The model first introduced in the 1960's was purchased in large numbers by the Tillings group, and became the standardised single deck type in many fleets. The most popular choice of bodywork was built by ECW (Eastern Coach Works) of Loftstoft. The early vehicles had a flat windscreen, which was later modified to incorporate a more stylish curved version, the vehicles were also available with either single or twin head lamps. The Bristol RE was replaced by the Leyland National in the early 1970's, however examples continued to operate with some of the larger operators into the early 1990's. Many of these hardy vehicles were also popular second hand choices with a number of independent operators who continued to use these vehicles well into the late 90's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Plaxton Paramount Coaches

Mon Sep 12 2005

Monday 12 September 2005: EFE picked the high floor mark II 3500 version of the Paramount Coach for the bases of it model. The standard version with the rear window is modeled along with the Expressliner version, which was designed for use on National Express Rapide Services. Only a few releases of this version have appeared so far however. These models feature interior roof detailing with lockers and air conditioning . The first release of model 266 was at the Showbus Rally in 1999 with the second version 267 following in mid 2000. 266xx Plaxton Paramount 3500 Coach (Rear Window) 267xx Plaxton Paramount 'Expressliner' Coach (No Rear Window) Plaxton introduced the Paramount coach design in the early 1980's. The mark II version was introduced in the late 1980's and featured minor re-styling of the original design. A third version of the design was also introduced at this time for use on National Express Services, this 'Expressliner' version lacked a rear window. The Paramount range was replaced by the Premiere and Excalibur coach range in the early 1990's.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Duple Half Cab Coaches

Mon Sep 12 2005

Monday 12 September 2005: The Windover version of this model (207 , 208 , 209) was originally planned to be released in a version with solid valences, however the reserved catalogue numbers have either not been issued or re-allocated, whether this model is that version or an additional version is open to some speculation. 253xx AEC Regal Half Cab Duple Coach 268xx Leyland Tiger Half Cab Duple Coach Duple acquired the Hendon, London based Windover coach builder in the 1950's with it came the popular and stylish Huntingdon coach design. Duple continued to supply this bodywork in slightly modified form into the mid 50's. The Leyland Tiger PS1 and AEC Regal were in the early post war years two of the most popular chassis, favored by both the small independent and large group operators. Several of these coaches are still active in the hands of preservationists today, indeed 25303 can often be seen at rallies in Southern Britain.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Low Floor Wright Single Deck Buses

Mon Sep 12 2005

Monday 12 September 2005: The Scania Access version of the model made it's debut at the EFE Showbus Rally in September 2000, this was followed by the Volvo Renown in 2001 and the Dennis Pathfinder in 2003. All three versions share the same basic single door body casting, but different window arrangements can be produced by varying the tempo printed side window glazing bars. This model was the first in the range to feature wing mirrors, glazed destination screens front and rear, and interior ceiling detailing. The only differences between the three castings occurs on the rear where engine covers, registration plate and destination screen positions are varied. 275xx Wright Low Floor Scania Access Single Deck Bus 276xx Wright Low Floor Volvo Renown Single Deck Bus 298xx Wright Low Floor Dennis Lance Single Deck Bus Wright Brothers based in Ballymania Ireland were the first body builders to produced a true low floor single deck bus. The first Pathfinder bodied Dennis Lances were supplied to London Buses in 1994 forming the LLW class. These buses were all dual door examples, where as most provincial operators choose the single door option. The body style was also modified for use with the Scania L113CRL chassis, this version being named the Access Ultraflow. A third version named the Renown was also available on the Volvo B10BLE chassis. The success of this design has propelled Wright Bros from a small Irish bodybuilder specializing in Welfare type vehicles, to one of todays leading suppliers of both single and double deck low floor buses in the UK.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Guy Vixen Special GS Class Single Deck Buses

Sun Sep 11 2005

Sunday 11 September 2005: The GS model was announced in early 2004 at the annual London Toy Fair however the first release did not occur until the Spring 2005. EFE plan to eventually produce models in the liveries of most of the independent operators who acquired them after their life with London Transport. The first such model appeared in late 2005 in the maroon & red livery of Hampshire operator Southern Motorways. 305xx Guy Vixen Special Single Deck GS Class Buses London Transport purchased 84 Guy Specials in 1953, for use on lightly used country area routes. These unique vehicles were a mix of the Guy Motors Vixen and Otter models, which where combined with an attractive 26 seat Eastern Coachworks body design. The rear of the GS shared a close resemblance to the RF, which had already become the new LT standard single deck type. The majority of vehicles remained in service until the mid 1960's when LT's desire for standardization finally resulted in the replacement by the RF type. Three examples were retained as staff buses until 1973, while another GS was used by the London Transport St John's Ambulance Bridge as a mobile dressing station for many years. A small number of buses also passed to the new London Country Bus Services when London Transport's country area passed to the National bus Company in 1970. The last vehicles were withdrawn by LCBS in April 1974. Many of the cast off GS buses found further service with independent operators which among others included Tillingbourne Valley Services, Southern Motorways and West Bromwich Corporation. The GS has also proved to be a popular choice with preservationists, with a surprisingly large number of vehicles from this small class, still active today.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

AEC Regal 10T10 Single Deckers

Sun Sep 11 2005

Sunday 11 September 2005: The AEC Regal 10T10 or London Transport T type was introduced into EFE's range in 2004, first in coach form in April, and then is bus form in September. The only difference between the two versions is the type of front wheel hubs fitted. Some coach models also have side mounted roof destination boards. 299xx AEC Regal 10T10 Coach 300xx AEC Regal 10T10 Bus The 10T10 was originally designed for use in London Transports Country area where they provided the backbone for the Green Line network before and after the 2nd World War. During the war while the Green Line network was withdrawn, many of the coaches were converted in to Ambulances and used by the US Army. Later in life some vehicles did spend a short period working on a number of Central (red) area routes. The majority of the class once withdrawn by London Transport were sold overseas.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

RF (AEC Regal IV) Single Deck Buses

Sun Sep 11 2005

Sunday 11 September 2005: Both RF models appeared 1997 with the modernised version appearing first. Both models can be fitted with side roof route boards if required. Not surprisingly the standard RF model has proved the more popular issue. Surprisingly, considering the popularity of London Transport related models, only a handful of the modernised coach versions have been issued. 232xx Modernised AEC Regal IV Metro-Cammell RF Class Single Deck Bus 233xx AEC Regal IV Metro-Cammell RF Class Single Deck Bus The AEC Regal IV with Metro-Cammell bodywork was chosen by London Transport as it's standardized single deck bus. The vehicles were given the RF classification and between 1950 and 1953 some 700 examples joined both the Country and Central areas of London Transport. Early versions were delivered without doors for crew operation, but doors were soon fitted to allow the vehicles to work one man operation services. The RF was also used to upgrade the the Green Line network. Although these buses appeared outwardly identical to the normal version, they were fitted with better seating and luggage racks. During 1966 London Transport decided to upgrade 175 of the Green Line vehicles, outwardly these were fitted with twin headlamps and new curved windscreens, the remaining Green Line vehicles were transferred to normal bus services. The last RF's remained in service with London Transport until March 1979. Like the RT Class many vehicles have been preserved and are a familiar sight at bus rallies up and down the country.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery

Miscellaneous Models

Wed Sep 7 2005

Wednesday 7 September 2005: A selection of non EFE models in my collection and some plastic kits I've built.

Published in Model Bus Zone Fotopic Gallery