TMN: Zimi Model's SS y45 flatcar & 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f)in 35th scale.

Zimi Model's latest release is the 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f) kit, matched with the T-Model-supplied SSy45 Flatcar. We look at the art, features, the machines & their colours, as well as a test build in our preview...

Zimi Model's SS y45 flatcar & 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f)in 35th scale.

10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f) & German 50-tonne Type SSy45 Flatcar Schwerer Platformwagen

From Zimi Model

1/35th scale

Kit No: ZM35077

Zimi Model Website

The Subject: 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f) on an SS y45 platform truck
The 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f)(Becker) is a German self-propelled gun developed during World War II, based on the French Lorraine 37L artillery tractor. The Lorraine 37L was designed in the late 1930s by Lorraine-Dietrich, featuring a fully tracked chassis that provided excellent mobility. It was originally intended to supply ammunition and fuel to frontline combat units, often under fire. Powered by a Delahaye Type 135 6-cylinder engine, it could reach a maximum speed of 35 km/h (20 mph) and had light armour, with a 12 mm thick front plate.

When Germany invaded France in 1940, the Lorraine 37L was captured and used as a base for various German conversions, including tank destroyers and self-propelled guns. One of the most notable German conversions was the 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f)(Becker), where the Lorraine 37L chassis was reworked to support the 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 howitzer, transforming it into a highly mobile and powerful self-propelled artillery piece.

The Lorraine 37L chassis was repurposed by the German Wehrmacht for a variety of roles, including as a platform for the Marder I tank destroyer. Its versatility and mobility made it an important asset in the German arsenal. The 10.5 cm leFH 18/4 auf Geschützwagen Lr.s.(f)(Becker) was one of the key variants that provided vital artillery support in numerous engagements across Europe.

The Kit from Zimi Model:

Combining the 35th scale (previously Panda Hobby kit) Marder I with the (T-Model) SSy 45 German flatcar. This kit's parts may be familiar to some. Zimi Model puts them together with a decal sheet of five options in four different colour combinations. Model features are next.

Model Features:

1. The kit features individual link tracks, accompanied by a dedicated assembly jig for accurate alignment and shaping.

2. The Lorraine chassis is replicated with a riveted structure, and all rivets are accurately represented, showcasing rich surface detail.

3. The engine deck grille of the SPG is also finely detailed.

4. The fighting compartment is moulded as a single piece, with very thin side armour walls that closely match the thickness of the real vehicle. The interior is also well-detailed, capturing the complexity of the compartment.

5. The main gun is moulded as a single piece for easier assembly.

6. The flatbed railcar kit accurately reproduces the details of the rails and railway ties and can be built as either curved or straight track sections based on preference. The moulding is relatively straightforward, with few small parts, making the assembly process simple and user-friendly.

7. The deck surface of the flatcar features a finely engraved wood grain texture, adding rich visual detail.

Decals & markings:

The decal sheet provides basic Iron Cross markings and tactical numbers, though historical photos suggest that many units operating the Marder I did not prominently display tactical numbers.

The photo etch that comes with the kit.