Hello Everyone
Over the years of building models for my LBB I have had a number of projects that have sat on the backburner for several years, this happens for a number of reasons that range from availability of parts in a certain colour to waiting around for a whole new part to be released that will open up new building opportunities. This model falls into the latter category, I had always wanted to build a modern styled 3 Car Electric Multiple Unit for several years but struggled to find a design for the cab that I was happy with, for me I like a nice clean build as I have an aversion to unsightly gaps and bumps that in reality should be a smooth transition. Recently my wish came true with the introduction of the part ref 11477 Curved Slope 2 x 1 http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItemIn.asp?P=11477&colorID=5&in=A that compliments the part ref 88930 2 x 4 Bow Plate http://www.bricklink.com/catalogItemIn.asp?P=88930&colorID=5&in=A , this gave me the ability to make a 6 wide cab with a rounded bottom section and I am pretty happy with the results, anyway now lets get to the backstory.
During the mid 1990s it became apparent to the LBB operating division that the ABe 4/12 class of 3 Car EMUs were becoming somewhat tired and increasingly harder and more expensive to retain. The ABe 4/12 units had been in service from the mid 1960s and the decision was made to dispose of the whole fleet and replace them with a more modern design, a total of 12 ABe 4/12 II units were purchased between 1998 and 2003 to facilitate that. The ABe 4/12 have little in common with their predecessors other than the wheel arrangement and 3 Car format, the new design boasts more powerful traction motors as well as air conditioning which provides a far more comfortable and efficient ride for it's passengers.
This model has been inspired by a number of modern EMU designs including the DB Class 423 and Class 425 units.
LBB ABe 4/12 II by Das Steinkopf, on Flickr
LBB ABe 4/12 II by Das Steinkopf, on Flickr
LBB ABe 4/12 II by Das Steinkopf, on Flickr