Hornby Accessories - LNER, Mk4 Open First, Coach

Discover the Hornby Accessories - LNER Mk4 Open First Coach, the perfect addition for enthusiasts and collectors of scale model railways. This meticulously crafted model represents the iconic LNER (London North Eastern Railway) coaches that revolutionized train travel in the UK. Built at the renowned Metro-Cammell's Washwood Heath factory, the Mk4 coaches feature a stunning array of details that truly bring your layout to life. Functional elements like push-button operated plug-type doors and fully sealed gangways enhance its realism, while the sleek aerodynamic design allows for impressive speeds of up to 140mph. Whether you're a seasoned model railway hobbyist or just starting, this open first coach is a must-have for your collection. The Hornby R40148 LNER Mk4 Open First Coach is compatible with other Hornby products and fits perfectly into Era 11 setups for an authentic railway experience. Elevate your railway operations with this exquisite piece that reflects British rail heritage and reflects the quality craftsmanship that Hornby is known for. Perfectly suited for display or operational running, this model is ideal for both collectors and railway enthusiasts alike. Complete your LNER fleet today with this high-quality Hornby accessory, designed for those who appreciate the intricacies of model railroading.

HOR R40148 Hornby R40148 LNER, Mk4 Open First, Coach K, 11284 - Era 11
Built at Metro-Cammell's Washwood Heath factory, 314 Mk4 coaches were produced between 1989 and 1992. They were built specifically for use on the newly electrified East Coast Main Line, along with hopes that a second order for the West Coast Main Line would be placed at a later date, although this second order never transpired. Mk4 coaches featured many improvements over the Mk3s such as push-button operated plug-type doors, fully sealed gangways and a designed top speed of 140mph. Much of the Mk4 design was based upon the Advanced Passenger Train. In particular, Mk4 coaches feature sides profiled to allow a tilt of up to 6° with newly fitted tilting bogies.
Mk4s entered service in 1989 and helped drive a significant increase in passenger traffic. With privatisation in 1996, all Mk4 coaches were sold to Evershot Rail Group who have since leased them out to the holder of the InterCity East Coast Franchise. The franchise was initially awarded to Great North Eastern Railway (GNER) and has since been operated by National Express East Coast, East Coast, Virgin Trains East Coast and London North Eastern Railway (LNER) owned by the Department for Transport.
Between October 2003 and November 2005 Bombardier Transportation, under contract from GNER, commenced refurbishment of the Mk4 stock, fitting new seating arrangements and introduced onboard Wi-Fi, a first for British rail services. This refurbishment programme was called 'Project Mallard' named after the Mallard steam locomotive, built in the 1930s by the London & North Eastern Railway and holder of the world speed record for steam locomotives.
Although Mk4 coaches have spent most of their lives on the ECML, there are plans to cascade them down to other lines due to the introduction of the Class 800 and Class 801 IEPs.