The first delivery of eagerly-anticipated EFE Rail Class 74 electro-diesels has arrived for 'OO', with the first three examples Nos. E6101 (E82006), E6104 (E82007) and 74007 (E82008) leading these superb additions to Southern Region collections.

EFE Rail has further refined its tooling to deliver an even better final model since prototypes were shown earlier this year. Key improvements include a corrected front bufferbeam, cleaner handrail and better glazing fit. Subtle prototype variations are replicated across the range, ensuring each example looks right for its individual history — for example, later-fitted cab ventilators in the A-pillars are faithfully modelled on the appropriate examples.

Detail and specification

These Class 74s combine high levels of exterior fidelity with reliable running and modern control features. Highlights include:

  • A high-quality coreless motor
  • Drive to both bogies and every axle for positive traction
  • Electrical pick-up from every wheel for reliable lighting and sound performance
  • A 21-pin DCC socket with space for a speaker (sound-fitted factory versions planned)
  • Cab lighting available for both analogue and DCC users
  • Illuminated blinds at each end, supplied with a selection of interchangeable route blinds
  • Lighting features switchable by DCC; analogue users can operate cab lights and blinds via chassis-mounted switches (including a separate switch to turn off the illuminated blinds at the trailing end)
  • NEM coupling pockets, sprung buffers, etched metal grilles, separate metal handrails, and an authentic complement of cab-end cables and bufferbeam pipework
  • An accessory pack with optional parts for modellers who want to add finishing touches, including loco-to-bogie brackets and additional pipework.

What’s next?

Two further examples — 74010 (E82009) and 74009 (E82010) — are due to arrive imminently. Notably, 74009 has a factory-weathered BR blue finish, offering an immediately realistic, in-service appearance right from the box. This model (and others) can be further enhanced with our professional Deluxe weathering service, available on checkout.

Collectors – take note

The Class 74s make an excellent focal point for Southern Region and early BR blue era layouts. The combination of accurate tooling, era-correct detailing, modern running gear and flexible lighting/DCC options means these models suit both display collectors and active operators. With subtle prototype variations modelled across the range and sound-ready provision, the new EFE Rail Class 74s represent one of the most compelling contemporary releases for OO scale enthusiasts this year.

Get yours, here