Dapol Seeks Support, Proposes New N Gauge LMS Suburban Coaches
Dapol launched a second expression of interest programme on December 10, 2025 to gauge demand for a newly tooled N gauge LMS 57 foot non corridor suburban coach, and set a target production decision by the end of February 2026 if enough interest is registered. The move matters because CAD work and detailed renders are already complete, planned features match modern N gauge layouts, and the proposed price of £39.95 per coach makes it a realistic addition for many modellers.
Dapol opened a second expression of interest programme to test market appetite for a newly tooled N gauge LMS 57 foot non corridor suburban coach. The company said CAD and detailed renders were complete, and laid out a proposed initial range that covers four period liveries and multiple diagram and vehicle types.
The initial lineup includes LMS Period III Crimson Lake, BR Unlined Crimson, BR Unlined Maroon, and BR Lined Maroon. Vehicle forms proposed are Third, Composite, Brake Third, and Driving Brake Third and push pull variants. Planned model specifications aim to meet common layout expectations, with RP 25 profile wheels, pinpoint axle pickups, compatibility with a minimum radius of R2, a sprung close coupling system, NEM pockets, light bar compatibility, and fully modelled interiors.
Dapol listed a proposed price of £39.95 per coach and stated it will publish progress updates every two weeks. Expressions of interest were opened immediately and the firm set a goal to reach a production decision by the end of February 2026 if sufficient support is recorded. This is the second time Dapol has run this kind of programme for a new tooling project, which can shorten lead times when CAD and renders are already finished.
Practical value for modellers is clear. The R2 compatibility and close coupling system make these coaches suitable for tight radius N gauge suburban layouts and for operators who run period train formations. The range of liveries spans late LMS and early British Rail eras, helping modellers build accurate suburban consists from the 1930s through the 1950s. The driving brake and push pull variants expand operational possibilities for timetable and shuttle modelling.
Register your expression of interest with Dapol before the decision deadline to influence whether the models move to production. With the technical work already done and an affordable proposed price, these coaches could become a widely used option for N gauge LMS and early BR suburban layouts if the community response is strong enough.
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