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31.10.2025 Press Release: PIKO presents numerous new products at “Faszination Modellbau” in Friedrichshafen

Sonneberg, October 2025 – This coming weekend (October 31 to November 2, 2025), the Friedrichshafen exhibition grounds will once again transform into a paradise for model building enthusiasts from all over Europe – “Faszination Modellbau” is opening its doors! PIKO will be on-site again this year, showcasing numerous new products and exciting activities, warmly inviting all visitors to experience the world of model railways up close.

At the PIKO booth in Hall A1, booth 1230, guests can discover the latest models and highlights from the Sonneberg model railway manufacturer. The focus will be on the first series sample of an exclusive surprise new item that will enrich the PIKO H0 range from the end of November: the electric locomotive 144 188-0. This exceptional representative of the E44 series was developed from the conversion of the former Höllentalbahn locomotive E 244 11 and differs in many details from the standard locomotives.

During development, PIKO placed great emphasis on authentically reproducing the locomotive’s distinctive features — including two instead of three cab windows, newly constructed DBS 54 pantographs, and faithfully recreated sides featuring five double-louver ventilation grilles on one side and three on the other. Precise positioning of doors, main switches and protective equipment completes the coherent overall appearance. The digital versions also feature cab and engine room lighting that perfectly showcases the detailed interior. This makes the Expert model of the 144 188-0 an absolute must-have for model railway enthusiasts and collectors.

In addition, PIKO will present other current tooling highlights in Friedrichshafen, such as the Polish steam locomotive TKt48, the electric locomotive E669.1 of the ČSD, and the Dutch diesel locomotive series 500. For garden railway fans, the “Neuffen” station building will be an eye-catcher – ideally paired with the high-gloss chemical tanker wagon. N and TT scale enthusiasts will also be delighted and can admire numerous models in the display cases or on various layouts.

A special highlight for visitors are the lovingly designed play areas in G scale and H0, where children can unleash their creativity. Those who want to get hands-on can paint their own G-scale or H0 wagon and take home a unique souvenir.

At the PIKO booth, visitors can also look forward to two popular G-scale building models, the “Kesselhaus” and the “Botschaft,” available exclusively at the trade fair at special prices. The PIKO team will also provide information about the next “Tag der Offenen Tür” (Open House Day) in Sonneberg, taking place on June 20, 2026 – a highlight for anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at the PIKO model railway world.

And for those looking for a special Christmas gift for themselves or loved ones, the new PIKO G-scale Christmas set is a must-see. The festively designed locomotive with two beautifully printed freight cars is much more than a model train – it becomes a magical decorative highlight during the Advent season. The set is now available in a high-quality gift box and can be ordered with free shipping at www.weihnachtslok.de. Those who are quick will even have the chance to purchase one of the first sets directly at the PIKO trade fair stand.

Younger visitors are also taken care of: the new starter sets for children aged 8 and up offer the perfect introduction to the world of model railways – with a robust diesel locomotive (BR 218 or Rh 2016), two colorfully designed freight cars featuring glow-in-the-dark graffiti, plus tracks and controller in a complete package for €139.99. The sets are fully compatible with the PIKO H0 DC system and encourage creative, ever-growing model railway worlds.

Anyone who shares a passion for detailed model building should not miss the PIKO booth at “Faszination Modellbau” in Friedrichshafen – where technology meets passion and model railways become a truly emotional experience.