Although Bachmann has been involved with British N-Gauge since they took over Graham Farish they have never before ventured into European N-Gauge. That has now changed with the introduction of their first 1:160 model, the Swiss-built FLIRT electric multiple unit.
The prototype train has been a big success in Europe with versions being sold to many different countries and it looks like the Bachmann/Liliput FLIRT is also going to be a success as the German and Swiss versions, so far released, have both sold out at the factory.
The model has two motors, one at each end of the train and comes complete with factory fitted LED interior lighting. It also has directionally controlled white/red headlights/tail-lights and an illuminated destination panel.
Straight out of the box the model ran smoothly and quietly with very good slow speed control. My layout is DC but the model can easily be DCC chipped and comes with full instructions on how to do it.
I know we already have some Bachmann fans on the forum and if this model is anything to go by I will be joining them.
Below are a few pictures of the Swiss FLIRT on my layout. The model carries the Basel Regional version of the SBB livery. As per the prototype the model is equipped with two pantographs (Swiss and German) as these trains often operate cross-border services.
I shouldn’t think that I will be converting many of you to Mainland European modelling but I thought you might like to see what a familiar name is doing on the other side of the Channel.
DSC_1098_large.jpg
DSC_1099_large.jpg
DSC_1101_large.jpg
DSC_1102_large.jpg