¹⁄35

One of the pleasanter surprises from Tamiya a year or so ago was the announcement of the quarter-ton Austin 'Tilly' in quarter-scale. Now, a COMPLETELY new kit, in 1/35th...

Before I begin this report, a big thanks to Marcus Nicholls, the editor of Tamiya Model Magazine who very kindly sent me the photos.

So Tamiya have confirmed the release of

308 - British Light Utilty Car

So, before the pantomime of the pantograghs begins let me lay something to rest. This is a COMPLETELY new model. It was designed from the ground up and is NOT an upscaling of the 1/48th scale one. The research work was done by Michael Shackleton who operates the The Tilly Register (LINK). In Michael's own words, from Missing Lynx:

Now that Tamiya have broken their silence about this cute little vehicle, I can give you some information. I had the privilege of helping Tamiya with the research for this little model and have also had a couple of test shots in my hands for the last week or so. Having started to put one of them together, I can make the following comments.

Firstly, it is not a larger version of their previous 1.48 model, but a completely newly-designed kit.

It has many options such as doors (and the tilt flap) that can be positioned open or closed, optional hubcaps, electric trafficators or the later manual indicator arm, wood or metal tailgate, alternative exhaust pipes, alternative headlight set-ups and alternative radiator grilles, rear seats in up or down positions. The bonnet can be positioned raised to show a nice representation of the engine. A driver figure is included. Decal options are for three home-front Tillys and one Dutch Brigade Austin which is featured on the box top, plus one bonus set (see below), all in different camouflage patterns.

Included in the kit, although they dont appear on the instruction sheet, are markings of the famous Tilly that Princess Elizabeth learnt to drive on. This particular Tilly needs a single, larger, early production headlight not included in the kit, so the decals are an unofficial bonus.

So, once again, thanks to Marcus for the images and to Michael for clearing any possible confusion!