Dapol Class 59 206 DB Schenker [N Gauge]
Item No: 2D-005-002

An icon of modern UK freight, the Class 59 was the first US-built locomotive designed for British rails, introduced in 1986 after quarry firm Foster Yeoman sought a more reliable alternative to BR’s underperforming Class 56s. Built by EMD, these Co-Co diesels proved highly successful, with No. 59005 famously hauling a record-breaking 4,639-tonne load. Their performance led to follow-on orders from ARC and National Power, resulting in the 59/1 and 59/2 subclasses. This early success laid the foundation for EMD’s Class 66, now a mainstay of UK and European freight. Today, DB Schenker (formerly EWS) and Mendip Rail operate most of the surviving Class 59s, with 59206 among those in active use. Dapol’s model of 59206 in DB Schenker red showcases their latest Next Generation Diesel platform, featuring a die-cast chassis and a smooth-running 5-pole iron-core motor shared with their acclaimed Class 50 and 68 models. The mechanism offers full all-wheel drive and pickup, plus refined low-speed control. Lighting functions include independent front/rear control with day/night mode, usable in both DC and DCC, and override switches for analogue users. The model is DCC sound-ready via a Next-18 decoder socket, and factory sound-fitted versions include a Zimo decoder with authentic sounds. Additional features include RP25 wheels, clip-fit body shell, self-centring close couplings with NEM pockets, fine detailing, printed and etched nameplates, and buffer beam accessories. A rugged and powerful modern freight loco for Era 9 layouts.