Motown Models

 Motown Models GP9R Update - December 2021

 
 

It has been awhile since our last GP9R update - but we have exciting developments which we’re happy to present. Take a look at the gallery below with pictures and video showing many of the details and components of this model. Please keep in mind this is still a pre-production model with many obvious details missing (rivets, jacking pads, cab interior, etc). If you have questions about the model, critiques of the sample show, or any other information you think we might find helpful, please feel free to email us at tom@motownmodels.com, or message us on our social media platforms (at the bottom right of the page). More information on pricing and availability can be found below.

Image Gallery

 

Video - Sound Check, Lighting, Slow Speed Performance

Pricing

The pricing for the GP9R is as follows:

  • With LokSound 5 DCC/sound: $750

  • With LokPilot 5 silent DCC: $650

You may be wondering - why does this model cost so much more than other manufacturers’? Below are a few reasons as to why:

  • Hand crafted, painted, and tested in the USA (Detroit)

  • Limited production - 50 units for the first run (each with serial numbers)

  • We are a small manufacturer - this model costs us more than 3 times to make compared to a similarly detailed model from the “big guys”

  • The customer can choose any of the 36 road numbers GTW produced, including all 3 as-delivered schemes

  • Staying true to the prototype means many differences in details and components between different road numbers, causing more variations and complexity per model

  • Only high quality materials and components used, along with 3D printing technology

  • Not having a full factory in China means many more parts need to be purchased instead of being made in-house

Only a few years ago, to get a model as unique as the GTW GP9R, you’d be paying significantly more for a brass model. With a smooth drivetrain, DCC/sound, LED lighting, a plethora of road number specific details, and paint from the factory, our model outperforms that of a brass equivalent - which doesn’t even exist! This is the first time this model is being produced in any scale, in any material, to any degree.

Availability and Ordering

Although we do not have an exact date for release, we are quickly progressing with the model development. Being as the model itself is nearly complete, we are now focusing on things such as artwork, assembly processes, and packaging. Our next “major” update will show all three paint scheme variations fully painted and in “production” guise. When the final major update is released, orders will open and you will be able to reserve your model.

Ordering will be a bit different than a traditional model (can you tell we do things a bit “differently” here?). A date and time will be announced when the ordering page is up on the website. When it is live, you will be able to select the road number(s) you’d like to have built, along with the option of DCC/sound or silent DCC. A non-refundable deposit of $100 will be required per model, which will be paid upon checkout. This locks in your build slot, and your model will be built in the sequence of which orders are placed (the first to order will have #01/50, the last to order will have #50/50). Once your model is complete, pictures and video of the model will be sent to you, along with an invoice for the remainder of the balance.

Questions and Answers

Q: Will there be an option for DC only models?

A: No. Being that our model uses a motherboard designed specifically for DCC use, we do not have a DC only option. However, getting a model with LokPilot 5 allows you to use the model on DC or DCC!

Q: Will undecorated and/or kit versions of the model be available?

A: Not for this first run, but there is the possibility of different options in the future.

Q: Will this model be available outside the US?

A: Yes! We will ship GP9R’s to any country - although the shipping rate might be higher.

Q: Is there a minimum/maximum on models I can buy?

A: No! You can buy 1 or 10. However, once all 50 are sold out, that’s it (for the first run).

Q: I see a problem/error with the model in the pictures. Can you correct this?

A: Sure, and thank you! We want to hear all critiques - but keep in mind this is still a pre-production sample. Email us at tom@motownmodels.com with your concerns.

Q: Will these be available with ditch lights?

A: Yes! You can select “ditch lights” as an option on the ordering form.

Q: Will you do the _____ paint scheme?

A: The first run of 50 models is “as-delivered” only, which includes original GTW, GTW Operation Lifesaver, and CN noodle. Future runs are planned with different paint schemes.

Q: I’m looking at a picture of 4604 and see it has a different louver configuration than 4633. Will this be reflected on the model?

A: Yes! We are doing every possible variation we can find between road numbers - including with or without marker light surrounds, louver styles and locations, long hood reinforcement straps, cab edge “gutters”, flag holders, and so on. These will be as accurate to their corresponding road number as possible.