1:35 Kurierwagen Typ 181 ´Bluelight Version´

The Type 181 with a blue beacon in 1:35 scale from Das Werk

An injection-molded kit of the light Volkswagen Type 181 cross-country car in the version for emergency services. Compared with the basic version it adds the equipment with blue roof beacon lights and a three-dimensionally printed radio set with a receiver. The box further holds clear parts, pre-cut masks for the glazing, printed wheels and a fully equipped interior, and the doors and the hood can be built open or closed.

The real subject

In Germany the Type 181 served more than the army. Its simplicity, low weight and good cross-country ability made it a popular car with police forces, the border guard and fire brigades. It was these vehicles that carried blue beacons, a radio set and the conspicuous color scheme of the service. The decals cover four such machines: a military police training car from the early 1970s, a border guard command car from Goslar in 1972, a Lower Saxony police vehicle from Gorleben in 1980 and a fire service car from Bremen in 1982.

Building and painting tips

Bright service colors need a smooth and light base, so unify the surface with a primer and lay the color down in thin coats. Leave the clear beacon covers until last and glue them with an adhesive that does not fog. Finish the interior with the radio set before you seat the body. These cars were kept in good order, so keep the weathering restrained.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of police, fire service and rescue vehicles
• For builders of civilian scenes from the 1970s and 1980s
• For anyone interested in the vehicles of the German security services

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.