The Budd Company has long been held synonymous with passenger car construction. Yet Budd proved to be very revolutionary in the design of self-propelled passenger cars as well. One of their most unique designs came from a project commissioned by the Chicago Burlington & Quincy Railroad, who simply asked for a stainless steel train, powered by a diesel engine and capable of travelling 100 miles per hour. The consist needed to be equipped with a Railway Post Office compartment, contain space enough for 25 tons of baggage and express and be capable of seating 70 passengers. The CB&Q left it up to the Budd Company to determine how they would accomplish the task.

The 3-unit articulated consist that Budd ultimately delivered employed the use of lightweight stainless steel construction that borrowed on aircraft fuselage technology. By using a tubular shape, Budd was able to disperse the cars' weight over fewer trucks while creating a stronger design than traditional car bodies afforded. The final design was unique not only in appearance but in function as well. The low, sweeping design and rounded 'shovel' nose made Zephyrs a popular attraction and frequent subject of railfan shutterbugs all over the country.

M.T.H. is proud to introduce the Pioneer Zephyr to our Premier lineup in O scale proportions. Its sleek look and smooth operating performance are sure to please both the operator and collector. The Zephyr is available with the features shown.