Accurascale Announces New OO Class 089 Family, Prototype Progress Shared

RailwayModels.uk reported on November 21 that Accurascale has moved its new OO scale Class 08/09/10 family, marketed under the Class 089 name, into engineering prototype stage. The announcement set out a launch line that will include a mix of Class 08, 08/9 Gwendraeth variants and Class 10 versions presented in a range of period liveries and numbers that will appeal to modellers focused on British diesel shunters.

The models are being developed as ready to run items and the specification reflects features now expected by serious hobbyists. Factory details published with the announcement list a five pole motor paired with twin flywheels for improved low speed control, all wheel drive for traction, and a 21 pin DCC socket for decoder installation. Lighting provision will include working directional and shunting lights. Body and finishing touches include etched grilles, sprung metal buffers and separate metal handrails, while the cab will have opening doors and a removable magnetic roof section to simplify access to the decoder and electronics.

Accurascale has indicated pricing guidance on the announcement with DCC ready versions shown at about £159.99 and sound fitted examples around £249.99 depending on the version chosen. The company is targeting early 2027 for initial availability, a timetable that will be watched closely by those who track new tool releases in UK OO.

For layout builders and roster collectors the combination of modern running gear and detailed bodywork promises a useful addition to shunter fleets, particularly for operators modelling industrial and freight workings where realistic low speed running and lighting effects matter. Notes on tooling and sample progress included in the announcement will help modellers assess likely delivery and finish, and the mix of Class 08, 08/9 and 10 options increases the appeal across era based collections. Enthusiasts tracking Accurascale new tool programmes should monitor further updates as final production samples and exact livery details are confirmed.