Railway Models UK

Key Publishing has commissioned an exclusive collection of Hornby IIA-D biomass wagons carrying the original Drax Powering Tomorrow livery for 'OO' gauge. The new collection of four twin packs was launched at the 2025 Great Electric Train Show, with pre-orders now open.

The IIA-D biomass wagons were introduced in 2013-2014, with an initial fleet of 225 wagons built by WH Davis for transporting biomass pellets from docks to Drax Power Station in North Yorkshire. A further 30 wagons have since been built, bringing the fleet to 255. The hopper wagons were designed to maximise volume while keeping the biomass dry, with a unique body profile to utilise the full UK loading gauge.

The wagons were initially liveried in a silver base with green and blue 'swooshes' and Drax Powering Tomorrow text, with the livery wrapping across pairs of wagons. They are used to transport biomass from terminals at Liverpool, Immingham, Tyne, Redcar, and Hull to Drax Power Station. Over the years, haulage has included EWS and DB Cargo Class 66s, as well as GBRf Class 60 and Class 66 fleets.

The exclusive Hornby 'OO' gauge IIA-D twin packs each feature a pair of uniquely numbered biomass wagons. The models include:

R60318: 83 70 0668 052-2 and 83 70 0698 003-6
R60319: 83 70 0668 026-7 and 83 70 0698 056-4
R60320: 83 70 0668 019-2 and 83 70 0698 018-4
R60321: 83 70 0668 025-9 and 83 70 0698 021-8

The models feature turned metal wheels, NEM coupling pockets with small tension locks, optional buffer beam brake pipes, and an accurate body profile with internal equipment visible through the cutouts in the bodysides.

Delivery is expected in Spring 2026, with prices set at £89.99 per twin pack. Pre-orders can be placed with a £10 non-refundable deposit, with restricted quantities of each of the four twin-packs available. Visit the Key Model World Shop to place your pre-order.

Exclusive Hornby Drax IIA-D biomass wagons for 'OO' gauge

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