The Class 73 electro-diesel is a former Lima model which they released in 1986. It is generally considered to be one of the best of the Lima locomotives inherited by Hornby in 2004. Its inclusion in the Hornby catalogue was a high priority. Since Lima ceased production we have seen the real locomotives appear in many new liveries, including GBRf, Eurostar, Fragonset, Network Rail and SouthWest Trains, mainly as emergency rescue locomotives. With a decimation of the main line fleet, more than 20 have passed into preservation.

Electro-diesels are dual-powered machines being able to operate from third rail power or by auxiliary diesel motors. This gives them important flexibility of use, especially on the Southern Region where they operated. The first ones were constructed in 1962 and the last in 1967 - with a total of 49 being commissioned.