5 inch gauge GWR Railcar

A 5 inch gauge battery-electric Great Western railcar, modelled on the stylish, streamlined vehicles introduced by the GWR in 1933, with a total of 38 built. Originally designed to run as a standalone unit, their popularity with passengers led to later batches being built with standard buffers and couplings, allowing a coach to be attached, the resulting two coach set giving greater capacity.

In running order, fitted with a pair of 50Ah batteries showing 75% and 84% capacity when tested, driving a pair of 24 volt motors.

The remote handset, fitted with a "dead man's handle" switch, allows control of speed and horn. Fitted with working cab and running lights, with a switch under the front of the cab to change between the single headlight and twin lower lights at the front.

There is a soundcard fitted, although not of terribly convincing quality.

Three railcars have survived into preservation with one operational, running at the Didcot Railway Centre (highly recommended if you've never been).