Arnold HIN2687S FS E444 1st Series Electric Locomotive IV (DCC-Sound) N Gauge

FS E444 1st Series Electric Locomotive IV (DCC-Sound) 1:160 scale model produced by Arnold. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection. Features: DCC Sound Model Best suited to Epoch IV Model Railways Decorated in FS company markings Best suited to 192mm radius curves Flywheel Fitted Details The FS Class E.444 is an iconic class of Italian electric locomotives built for Ferrovie dello Stato (FS) between 1965 and 1975. It was developed in the 1960s as Italy’s first locomotive capable of sustained 200 km/h (125 mph) operation, at a time when high speed rail was just emerging worldwide. The first four prototypes debuted in 1967–68, proving Italian industry could design a true fast locomotive. Series production soon followed, with improved motors and bogies enabling the full 200 km/h top speed. 117 locomotives were built to a Bo'Bo' wheel arrangement with powerful DC traction motors under 3 kV DC overhead. They were nicknamed “Tartaruga” (Italian for “Tortoise”) after a naming contest, and early examples even carried a cartoon tortoise motif, a playful contrast to their high speed. E.444s became the backbone of Italy’s express passenger and fast InterCity services, hauling trains across the national network. From 1989 onward, most of the fleet underwent a major modernisation programme and were reclassified as E.444R, with updated cabs, improved systems and refinements to keep them competitive into the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Although they have now been retired from regular service, several units survive in preservation and remain beloved by enthusiasts for their elegant lines and historical importance.