Main Lines: 17th January 2026
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
Over the past seven days, the network has been in the spotlight, with a major £45 billion commitment announced to transform rail connectivity across northern England, ambitious plans unveiled for a multi-billion-pound overhaul of one of the country’s busiest stations, and renewed focus on safety following high-profile British Transport Police action against large-scale vandalism. Debate has also continued around the cost and direction of the Great British Railways rebrand, keeping rail firmly in the public eye as investment, infrastructure and identity all vie for attention at the start of 2026.
Model Railway news has also seen some big announcements, with the Hornby group topping the table. Fleischmann and Roco have also released information on their 2026 ranges, and Peco and Kato have announced items too.
In This Issue:
British Model Railway Announcements
2026 Range Announcement
This latest announcement brings together an extraordinary cross-section of new releases, spanning steam, diesel and electric locomotives, complete train packs, authentic coaching stock, and a richly varied range of wagons. From legendary steam icons and modern high-speed traction to era-defining passenger vehicles and characterful freight stock, this collection covers every corner of British railway history. For fans of operating accessories, this year also sees the reintroduction of the operating mail coach, this time in Royal Mail livery.
An Old Favourite Wagon Returns
A much-loved model returns, now enhanced with a host of refinements. This latest version features sharper, more comprehensive printing, with added detail along the solebars and tank ends, and upgraded smooth-running metal wheels. The tank body is finished in silver, paired with red solebars and complemented by striking red and yellow highlights on the Timken roller bearing covers.
Continental Model Railway Announcements
2026 Range Announcement
Fleischmann’s latest N scale announcements span European railways from the golden age of steam to today’s high-speed and intermodal networks. Steam favourites from ÖBB, DB, DR, SNCF and ČSD include the BR 44, BR 52, BR 86, BR 92 and the striking SNCF 150 Y, many with factory-fitted DCC sound, alongside classic electric traction such as SBB Re and Ae series and ÖBB Rh1020 and Rh1110. Modern rail is equally strong with Vectrons, TRAXX variants, Flixtrain and Railadventure liveries, ICE 1 anniversary sets, Nightjet coaches and contemporary EMUs and DMUs. A vast range of wagons, from intermodal flats to tanks and hoppers, completes a release.
Kato Europe Announcements
Four new EMUs join the Kato Europe range this month, including an Unbranded DB Regio ET425.
Märklin O Scale and Gauge 1 Announcements
Start 2026 in grand scale with Märklin’s latest O Scale and Gauge 1 releases! From powerful shunters to display accessories, this month’s announcements bring exceptional presence and detail to both the O Scale and the larger, highly collectable Gauge 1 models.
Märklin HO Scale Announcements
Get ready, HO modellers, Märklin has unveiled a fantastic array of new additions for 2026! From classic steam giants and modern diesel powerhouses to elegant electric locomotives, versatile bi-mode units, sleek multi-car sets and an impressive range of rolling stock, this January’s announcements showcase Märklin’s commitment to variety, detail and authenticity in the beloved 1:87 scale. Whether you’re expanding a period layout or adding new centrepieces to your modern roster, there’s something here to inspire every modeller’s next project!
Märklin Z Scale Announcements
Kick off 2026 with Märklin’s latest Z Scale releases! Proving that great things really do come in small packages, Märklin’s January announcements deliver an exciting collection of finely detailed models in the remarkable 1:220 scale. From characterful locomotives and compact railcars to perfectly matched train packs and eye-catching rolling stock, these new additions bring authentic railway operation to even the smallest layouts. Whether you are creating a portable project or maximising a limited space, Märklin’s Z Scale range continues to set the benchmark for precision, performance and realism in miniature.
Roco HO Scale Announcements
Roco’s latest HO scale announcements offer something for every modeller, blending classic steam, proven diesel power and modern electric traction across a wide range of European eras. Highlights include the special edition ČSD Class 477 “Papagei”, revised Fleischmann steam favourites, Austrian classics from the 310 and 109 series, and a new BR 86 for Usedom’s island lines. Modern layouts are well served with new electric and diesel models such as the Re 4/4 III, BR 145, redesigned V 90 / Class 290 and Austrian Class 2143, alongside headline trainsets including the Stadler FLIRT 3, new Railjet and returning Swiss ICN. A themed wagon programme, fresh Vectron liveries and a new Collector’s Edition series complete a release rich in variety and formation-building appeal.
Roco HOe and TT Scale Announcements
Roco’s latest H0e and TT scale announcements bring narrow-gauge charm and alpine character to the forefront, capturing the distinctive atmosphere of Austrian and Central European light railway operation. Headlining the range is a complete DR BR232 diesel freight train set in TT scale, offered DCC-fitted for instant operation, while the H0e releases focus on the evocative world of ÖBB and regional mountain railways. From characterful Rh2095 diesel and Rh1099 electric locomotives, available in both analogue and DCC-sound forms, to authentic coach and roll-wagon sets, these models are perfectly suited to compact layouts rich in operational interest.
Other Model Announcements
2026 Range Announcement
As part of the larger announcement, Corgi have released information on their next range of O Scale Vanguard models. These beautifully finished die-cast models celebrate everyday heroes of the road, from much-loved classics such as the Ford Escort, Capri, Cortina and Fiesta, to performance favourites like the Astra GTE and RS2000, and modern vehicles including the Ford Ranger Raptor. With a strong emphasis on authentic colours, fine detailing, and collectability, the 2026 range captures the spirit of Corgi’s heritage while appealing to both long-time enthusiasts and new collectors alike.
Check out the new items that have arrived into stock since the last Main Lines update. The list might be a bit long, but it's packed with exciting finds we think you'll love.
End Of The Line
That's the end of the line for this week. We will be back next week with another packed edition of Main Lines.
Until then, Happy Modelling
Before You Go...
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KITS & BITS
Your Monthly Model Kit Newsletter
Published First Friday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything plastic kit related, including news from Airfix, Tamiya, and Revell.
PIT STOP
Your Monthly Slot Car Newsletter
Published Second Sunday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything slot car related, including news from Scalextric, SCX and Carrera.
THE CABINET
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This newsletter will focus on everything collectables related, including Corgi, Oxford, and Herpa.