Introduction
Herpa announces
Item 094252, VW Crafter Bus High Roof, as a new type;
The current Volkswagen Crafter is now also added to the Herpa range as a bus. The finished model initially comes with a red body, while the Minikit is produced with a white body, ideal for conversions.
Herpa currently catalogues 138 Volkswagens and 13 Crafters.
The Model
VW Crafter Bus High Roof is packed in a form-fitted cradle that is contained in Herpa's red carton with a clear display window. It features a holographic license or Volkswagen on one end.
The model is completely assembled except for a small sprue holding two separate optional mirrors. Assembly is first rate. Molding of parts is, too. The parts are crisp with no flash, sink holes, mold seam lines, or visible ejection circles.
The plastic of the body is smooth and featured raised and recessed detail, as appropriate. Most of the surface detail is molded on. Clear plastic for the windows is clear and not distorted.
Herpa carries their models on a hybrid plastic-rubber material.
Detail
Headlights and brake lights are simulated with clear, and tinted clear lenses.
Interior detail consists of seats for passengers and the driver. A steering wheel is inserted into the dashboard. I can't see if any side consoles or other items are molded.
Tread detail is molded into the shoulder of the tires but not into tread. Good hub detail is present.
Underneath is shallow relief representing everything under the body.
Finish
Smooth glossy plastic was used for the body. The model is primarily molded in color. Black and silver chrome wraps around various components.
The VW emblems are painted on. Herpa does not use decals.
Conclusion
Herpa's VW Crafter Bus is a good looking 1/87 model of this people mover. It features excellent exterior detail and finish. The interior is impressive as well. Herpa cars snap together and it is possible to remove the body to insert figures into the seats, where they will be visible through the clear windows.
Clear and tinted lenses are used for the headlight and brake lights. The model is assembled without flaw. Two optional unattached side mirrors are provided to detail the exterior.
My only complaint is that I would like detail molded into the tread of the tires.
Modelers and collectors of modern buses and vans should appreciate this good looking VW. It will be at home on a display shelf, in a diorama, or on an HO scale model railroad layout. Recommended.
Please remember to mention to Herpa that you saw this item here - on Auto Modeler!
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