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Oxford OR76TKA002

Class A Tank ESSO 4311 Class A Revised Suspension

Manufacturer catalogue image - please note that pre-release images may be CAD renders or CGI/AI images rather than photographs

Prototype Eras
Era 6 (1967 to 1972) British Rail Blue (Pre-TOPS)
Era 7 (1972 to 1982) British Rail Blue (TOPS)

Manufacturer description

The 1955 British Railways modernisation plan recognised the fact that the UK rail system required a new high capacity tanker wagon to cater for the growing demand of petroleum products. Working with the Charles Roberts Railway Wagon Works and the Esso Petrol company a modern design capable of higher speeds was developed. Subsequently a large number of users operated the same vehicles - with their use lasting into the 1990's on commercial traffic and longer in engineers use. Our model will feature the Class A, and shorter Class B tanks . Class B tanks featuring a heater unit for heavier oils. Both original and upgraded suspension styles will be offered.

Catalogue listing

Model details

Prototype information

Oxford Class A Tank ESSO 4311 – Revised Suspension model (Manufacturer Part Number OR76TKA002) represents a British Rail Blue (pre‑TOPS) wagon from the 1950s modernisation era.

The 1955 British Railways modernisation plan identified a need for a high‑capacity tanker capable of handling the growing demand for petroleum products. In partnership with Charles Roberts Railway Wagon Works and the Esso Petrol Company, a design was produced that allowed higher running speeds and greater payloads. The model includes the standard Class A tank and the shorter Class B variant, the latter equipped with a heater unit for the transport of heavier oils.

Both the original suspension and the later upgraded suspension styles are offered, reflecting the vehicle’s long service life – commercial use continued into the 1990s and engineering use persisted for an even longer period.