Accurascale has announced a new model of the ClassâŻ142 ‘Pacer’ DMU, featuring a selection of liveries and a detailed specification.
The model represents one of the most recognisable secondâgeneration diesel multiple units to serve Britain’s regional network. Introduced in the midâ1980s, the twoâcar units became a common sight across the North of England, Wales and the South West, running a wide range of commuter and rural services. The new model continues Accurascale’s expansion into British Rail multiple units, concentrating on everyday passenger operations.
For the initial release, the ClassâŻ142 will be available in a range of liveries that reflect various points in the unit’s service life. These include:
- BR Provincial
- Western Region ‘Skipper’ chocolate and cream
- Greater Manchester PTE
- Northern Rail
A selection of running numbers will be offered within each livery, enabling modelers to assemble prototypical twoâcar sets or recreate specific regional allocations.
Despite its compact layout, the model incorporates a full interior in both vehicles and a lowâprofile motor for smooth operation. Both cars are fitted with a single DCC decoder and magnetic BSI couplings, allowing compatibility with forthcoming ClassâŻ153 and ClassâŻ155 models.
The lighting design includes directional headlights with selectable day and night settings, as well as independent interior and cab lighting. A StayâAlive system is also integrated to maintain uninterrupted power supply during runs.
The ClassâŻ142 was part of British Rail’s railbus programme, conceived as a costâeffective solution for lightly used routes. Its design combined busâderived bodywork with a simple twoâaxle chassis, evolving from experimental vehicles of the late 1970s. Service commenced in 1985 and the class operated widely across the North West, Yorkshire, Wales and the South West. Early improvements in the early 1990s addressed engine, gearbox, ride quality and braking issues through upgrades such as Cummins engines and enhanced transmissions.
Following privatisation, the fleet passed through several operators and liveries. Although withdrawal was anticipated by 2019, delays in replacement stock meant the units remained in service until 2020, with final retirements occurring during the COVIDâ19 pandemic. Several examples have since entered preservation, where their simplicity and low operating costs suit heritage operations.
Delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
Prices start at £199.98 for the DC and DCC ready version, rising to £299.99 for the DCC soundâfitted variant.
