05/27/2026
This is going to be expensive for us.
Introducing our next all-new Canadian series of freight cars, the National Steel Car 89’ Bi-Level and Tri-Level open Autoracks in HO scale!
In 1962, Canadian National and Canadian Pacific began acquiring their first 89’ tri-level autoracks. The tri-level autorack was designed to transport automobiles across three compact levels or “racks”. The cars were driven onto the racks and then tied down for transport. The racks were built by Whitehead & Kales of Detroit, Michigan, while the 89’ flat car was produced by National Steel Car of Hamilton, Ontario.
After the first orders in 62, both CN and CP followed up with more orders throughout the 1960s. Over 400 tri-levels were produced for CN while CP accumulated over 300 of these autoracks.
To transport light trucks and utility vehicles, the bi-level version of this autorack was created in 1964. 202 bi-levels were purchased by CP while CN rostered 125.
Despite more modern autoracks coming in the 1970s, these cars enjoyed very long service lives. Operating alongside the more common enclosed racks, many of these ran well into the early 2000s, equipped with screens and carrying modern vehicles! Operating throughout Canada extensively in the USA, these will look at home on any layout covering the 1960s right into the early 21st century.
The Rapido HO Scale NSC 89’ Autorack Features:
- All-new design created from original blueprints and measurements
- Full underbody details and airline piping
- Separate metal grab irons
- Etched-metal safety mesh screen on appropriate cars
- Semi-scale metal knuckle couplers
- Free-rolling trucks with profiled metal wheelsets
- Available as single car or six-packs unless noted
- Suggested minimum radius: 22”
Our HO scale racks cover all eras of service with CN and CP and include:
- CP Script Lettering in both small and large panel variations
- CP Rail Multimark Large Panel
- CP Rail Action red small panel
- CP Rail Black with mesh screens
- CN Noodle delivery and later versions with screens
- Plus, painted/unlettered brown and black cars
Our HO scale NSC Bi and Tri level autoracks are a conditional release. Order through your dealer or direct by September 15 to get this model off the ground!
Canadian/International orders: https://buff.ly/QbfTmBn
US orders: https://buff.ly/OxPSE6F
