Most modern HO Scale locomotives have nice big and relatively powerful motors to move them and pull acceptable amounts of cars. They are robust and dependable. However, they are big, take up a lot of space and do not pull as many cars the prototype.

Kato is working to change that. For the first time since DCC was introduced, there is a truly new development in the works that is going to change the way mode locomotives work. Check out this video for more details:

This new motor technology offers:

• Smaller motors with less maintenance requirements
• More available space in the locomotive body
• Better sound options and performance
• Higher weight for better pulling performance

Kato has begun to use this new mechanism in some of their Japanese prototype locomotives and will soon be bringing it to the North American market. And if you notice the end of the video, there just might be a clue about what the first North American locomotive to get this new drive is going to be.

JMP