Published 27 May 2025
OPEN access rail operator, Lumo, has partnered with prestigious model train manufacturer Hornby, to recreate its distinctive Hitachi 803 fully electric train – the ultimate collector’s item for model rail fans.
The model train comes with two model power cars, one motorised, one dummy and three coaches, allowing buyers to replicate Lumo’s five-car fleet. It also contains the option for the latest HM7000 Control System, which combines Bluetooth technology and app-based control, designed to revolutionise the controlling of a model railway.
Lumo’s real-life fleet is comprised of all-electric passenger trains, built by Hitachi at its Newton Aycliffe factory in County Durham.
While the Lumo Class 803 shares the same bodyshell as earlier UK A-train models, it sets itself apart by operating without any backup diesel engines. Instead, it uses batteries to power the onboard facilities, such as lighting and air conditioning, making it a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option of modern rail travel.
Lumo’s services produce 25 times less carbon emissions per customer per kilometre than air travel and 40 times less than air travel between Edinburgh and London.
Founded in the early 1900’s, British manufacturer Hornby Trains has been creating iconic model trains for over 104 years and are a staple in any model railway fan’s collection.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said: “It’s a privilege to be able to work alongside such an iconic British business and bring our services to life in a way that can be treasured and enjoyed for years to come. This comes as we celebrate 200 years of the passenger railway, and having a Lumo model introduced alongside trailblazing locomotives like Stephenson's Rocket shows a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The Lumo train is sure to be a stand out piece in any model railway collection.”
Martyn Weaver, Hornby Railways Brand Managing Director, said: “We are honoured that we have been able to work with Lumo on this project. As a brand we are always looking for ways to capture the attention of younger audiences, modelling modern trains is essential for this and when you have one with a striking livery such as the Lumo Class 803 that travels the length of the country, we know we are onto a winner!”
The new Lumo model is priced at £549.99 and can be purchased directly from Hornby here.
The model train comes with two model power cars, one motorised, one dummy and three coaches, allowing buyers to replicate Lumo’s five-car fleet. It also contains the option for the latest HM7000 Control System, which combines Bluetooth technology and app-based control, designed to revolutionise the controlling of a model railway.
Lumo’s real-life fleet is comprised of all-electric passenger trains, built by Hitachi at its Newton Aycliffe factory in County Durham.
While the Lumo Class 803 shares the same bodyshell as earlier UK A-train models, it sets itself apart by operating without any backup diesel engines. Instead, it uses batteries to power the onboard facilities, such as lighting and air conditioning, making it a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option of modern rail travel.
Lumo’s services produce 25 times less carbon emissions per customer per kilometre than air travel and 40 times less than air travel between Edinburgh and London.
Founded in the early 1900’s, British manufacturer Hornby Trains has been creating iconic model trains for over 104 years and are a staple in any model railway fan’s collection.
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said: “It’s a privilege to be able to work alongside such an iconic British business and bring our services to life in a way that can be treasured and enjoyed for years to come. This comes as we celebrate 200 years of the passenger railway, and having a Lumo model introduced alongside trailblazing locomotives like Stephenson's Rocket shows a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The Lumo train is sure to be a stand out piece in any model railway collection.”
Martyn Weaver, Hornby Railways Brand Managing Director, said: “We are honoured that we have been able to work with Lumo on this project. As a brand we are always looking for ways to capture the attention of younger audiences, modelling modern trains is essential for this and when you have one with a striking livery such as the Lumo Class 803 that travels the length of the country, we know we are onto a winner!”
The new Lumo model is priced at £549.99 and can be purchased directly from Hornby here.