There is an unusual story behind Accurascale’s latest Class 66 release. Announced on 16 September 2026, GBRf No. 66694 has emerged from a production mix-up, with Rainbow Railways providing the finishing touch.
Accurascale explains that it ordered 600 examples of No. 66794 ‘Steve Hannam’ for the Hornby Magazine/Key Model World exclusive, although the edition was intended to comprise 300. The surplus presented a problem, but a change to the real locomotive supplied a solution.
A new number for the surplus models
The prototype became 66694 in September 2025. With Key Model World’s agreement, Rainbow Railways has hand-renumbered the extra models to depict that later identity. They are offered in standard Accurascale packaging with the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.
Both versions were announced as in stock: £179.95 for DC/DCC-ready and £279.95 with DCC sound.
For the contemporary freight modeller, the appeal is that specific identity and its place on a layout set after the renumbering. It is a pleasing reminder that even a small change to a familiar locomotive can give us a fresh modelling subject.
Source and photograph: Accurascale’s announcement, 16 September 2026. Details checked 17 September 2026.
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