I just noticed that Bachmann came out with one in HO.
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Williams by Bachmann would be likely importer.
They already have the drawings and just have to enlarge the molds to O scale size.
They may want to see how well the HO model sells first.
@totrainyard posted:Williams by Bachmann would be likely importer.
They already have the drawings and just have to enlarge the molds to O scale size.
They may want to see how well the HO model sells first.
The economy will dictate the demand in addition to the presence of the new chargers in the coming years with Amtrak. If MTH does become Menards Train House and continues to produce Amfleet and Superliner passenger cars that would help the demand for the Charger no matter who would make it in O-Scale.
@totrainyard posted:Williams by Bachmann would be likely importer.
They already have the drawings and just have to enlarge the molds to O scale size.
They may want to see how well the HO model sells first.
It sold out instantly and they're doing another run already.
Rumors from the HO boards are that Bachmann has the exclusive licensing with Siemens.
I really do like this engine. I have yet to see it in person. I'm here close to Nashville TN where we do not have Amtrak service, so I probably won't get to see it for a while.
Short Answer: Williams by Bachmann
Long Answer: It is going to be a while before we see a Charger made in O Scale. From what I have heard, Bachmann does have an exclusive deal to make the Chargers in HO but they did jump the gun a bit. The Chargers that will be rolled out on Amtrak's nationwide route network will have a different nose cone shape (to make it easily interchangeable in the case of a collision) and larger fuel tanks. Additionally, Amtrak announced five of the Charger's Phase VI paint scheme to honor the company's 50th anniversary, another heritage unit that has yet to be announced, and the normal Phase VII scheme these units will wear has also yet to be announced. Maybe we know in May during Amtrak's 50th-anniversary celebrations what they will all look like. Siemens charges model makers a pretty penny to make their locomotives and that is why we have yet to see(n) MTH or Lionel take the plunge into making the ACS-64. Bachmann already having a deal in place to produce them in HO gives me hope that they will produce them in O Scale. My only hope is that they will be detailed models.
Challengers, Chargers...does anyone else see the pattern?
@AMCDave posted:THE factor in todays hobby......a license.
The killing of the goose laying golden eggs. I can see the company making sure the model of the locomotive looks right, and presented right. And have some pocket change. But one would think if someone wanted the model, that person would want to ride the real thing. That in turn would increase sales.......
@Dominic Mazoch posted:But one would think if someone wanted the model, that person would want to ride the real thing.
Well, I doubt a mere mortal modeller is going to get a cab ride on an SC-44... Amtrak service isn't ubiquitous, it may not be convenient for a modeller in certain parts of the country to even ride Amtrak, let alone hope there's an SC-44 on the point of the train he's booked on.
Rusty
@D500 posted:Challengers, Chargers...does anyone else see the pattern?
'Cuda's?
3rd Rail might consider the new Charger once it comes out to go with the current Viewliner cars in production. Bachmann may do it, but a lot of their wonderful HO and N offerings have not materialized in O such as the ACS64. I'd really enjoy that locomotive as well.
Amtrak runs some on the Pacific Surfliner (with the sporty rear spoiler). If WBB released one in O scale, it would be nice to have some scale-length Surfliner commuter cars and Superliners to go with it.
I may very well be Bachmann. I've only ever had one WBB item (about 8 years ago) but would be excited to see this in O Scale and would buy an Amtrak one in a heartbeat. Now if they did the would do an optional nose cone for the SCB-40 and put one in Brightline colors, I would buy one in half a heartbeat.
That being said, as Jonathan said, maybe 3rd Rail would do it. I'll jump on that one too.
It's on the site and list now!
@Engineer-Joe posted:It's on the site and list now!
Indeed, and they're doing MARC! Very cool.
@Engineer-Joe posted:It's on the site and list now!
And shown here:
http://www.3rdrail.com/reservation.html#CHARGER
Stu
The current listing only shows Phase VI. Hopefully they'll offer Phase VII as well.
Who has already put in an order.
I put in for two Amtrak and one WSDOT.
So I take this to mean more people wanted the chargers than the SDP40F's!
I would prefer the Charger. I'm not sure if I'll attempt a direct order. I contacted a dealer who referred me back to the manufacturer's site.
I hate to make a comment here and have it taken literally. I like the offering. I hope it sells well.
I would buy if offered by Lionel, Atlas, or 3rd Rail (only).
@Allan Miller posted:I would buy if offered by Lionel, Atlas, or 3rd Rail (only).
It is being offered by 3rd Rail. See above comments. Great news for O scale!
I wonder if all of the CHICAGO area model railroad stores will order the AMTRAK Chargers?
Andrew
Oh boy! I’m in for two Amtrak, whichever matches the Surfliner and a Coaster.
But I hope they’ll follow up with some Coaster passenger equipment!
@prrhorseshoecurve posted:So I take this to mean more people wanted the chargers than the SDP40F's!
It sure surprised me !!! I thought SDP40F’s were going to be offered soon. 😳🤔
The only down side to this is I don't think 3rd Rail will be able to offer accurate sounds for these. As far as I know there is know easy to incorporate custom sound with TMCC and the Cummins QSK95 sounds different that a GE Dash 9.
@falconservice posted:I wonder if all of the CHICAGO area model railroad stores will order the AMTRAK Chargers?
Andrew
Have you ever seen any store order Sunset/3rd rail engines for stock?
Just preorder one from Sunset/ 3 Rail Trains!!!