Dinky Toys BEV Truck - 14a/400

From the Meccano Magazine in 1948:

"THE B.E.V. (British Electric Vehicles) Electric Truck, No. 14a, which was illustrated on the inside cover of last month’s “M.M,” is an addition to the Dinky Toys series that undoubtedly will give delight to thousands of enthusiasts. Trucks of this kind are coming into use on an ever-increasing scale for a variety of purposes in such places as works, warehouses, docks and railway yards. They are battery driven, with batteries that can be charged overnight to ensure that the trucks are available for a full day's work every day. Control is simple, and the trucks have the great advantage of handiness, as they can turn sharp corners and move about easily in confined spaces because of their small turning radius. They are made in all sizes, from small 10 cwt. models to large ones capable of carrying 3 tons.

The Dinky Toys model is a lifelike reproduction of the B.E.V. platform truck in which every important external feature is clearly displayed. There is a wide platform of ample length, providing the maximum space for a load: underneath is a representation of the battery box; and at the front is the driver’s platform, where the driver himself has one foot on the brake pedal and controls the power and steering by means of the levers provided. The driver is pressing on the brake pedal because the brake is applied by a spring when he lifts his foot, so that when the truck is standing the brakes are on. They are not released until the pedal is pressed down, and electrical interlocks ensure that the power cannot be applied until this is done."

The BEV Truck was in the Dinky Toys range from 1948 to 1960. From 1948 to 1954 the number was 14a and it was either mid blue with blue hubs or grey with blue, grey or red hubs. This latter colour carried on after 1954 when the model number changed to 400, the later model was also available in light or mid blue with blue grey or red hubs. The driver, standing on the platform at the front, is always all-over tan.