BCI 65.000 Type-1936 carriage
The ‘Type 1936’ carriages were built between 1938 and 1940 in three variants: 190 second-class-only carriages (classified CI 35.000), 100 mixed 2nd and 3rd class carriages (classified BCI 65.000) and 10 mixed units with a luggage compartment (classified BCDI 65.500). These were an evolution of the open-balcony carriages, with which they shared the chassis and interior layout. The improvements made in this series compared to the previous ones were the closure of the end balconies and the introduction of proper inter-compartment partitions.
The BCI 65.000–65.099 carriages were built in a single batch of 100 units and consisted of two compartments: a third-class compartment with 48 seats and a second-class lounge with 24 seats. Between the two compartments was a toilet and a small folding seat. Originally, they were fitted exclusively with Westinghouse-type steam heating.
In the early 1950s, 26 units were converted for use as shuttle trains and given the designation nBCI; a service intercom line, a control for uncoupling the trailing locomotive and the REC were added. The steam pipe was also removed from some units. From 1956, they were reclassified as ABI-nABI 65.000-65.099. From 1974 onwards, almost all carriages in service were downgraded to second class only, with the marking UIC 83 24-20 200-251 BI.
Initially, these carriages were painted in a chestnut-isabella livery, with class markings in Roman numerals until around 1945 and subsequently in aluminium Arabic numerals. From around 1960 to 1965, the livery was simplified to an all-chestnut scheme, with the exception of the roof, which remained aluminium-coloured. Subsequently, they were repainted in slate grey. The UIC marking was applied exclusively to carriages downgraded to second class only.
They were typically used in short trains (4–6 carriages excluding the locomotive) on secondary lines; however, their use on more important lines such as the Rome–Naples route is also documented. The depots to which the most units were assigned were Rome, Florence (for use on the Faentina line), Padua (for the secondary lines in the Veneto region) and Cuneo/Alessandria on the three-phase lines.
Model features
This model, built to exact H0 scale, is crafted from 0.3mm photo-etched nickel silver. The axles supplied in the kit are RP25 and are supported by micro-machined brass bushings. The coupler is exceptionally realistic, spring-loaded and fully functional. This model aims to represent the real-life prototype as faithfully as possible, with a very limited number of modelling compromises.
The assembly kit is intended for experienced modellers.
Available in our online shop exclusively as an assembly kit.
Versions and variants
The BCI 65.000 carriage is available exclusively as a assembly kit, and the following numbering options can be created (all included in the kit). Each variant is consistent with the period and era in which it is set.
