VA15701 Range Rover, The First Production Range Rover, Tuscan Blue, (British Motor Museum)

This exceptional 1:43 scale CORGI Vanguards diecast model celebrates an automotive icon, the Range Rover Classic Velar YVB 153H, a historically significant vehicle that played a pivotal role in the launch of one of Britain's most legendary 4x4s. Ready to display straight from the box, this meticulously crafted collectible captures the Tuscan Blue finish of chassis number 35500003A, the first Range Rover built to final production specification. Perfect for discerning collectors of British automotive heritage, this model represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Range Rover history.

Key Features

• Ready to display with no assembly required
• Premium 1:43 scale diecast construction
• Authentic Tuscan Blue launch specification paintwork
• Historically accurate detailing and markings
• Represents chassis number 35500003A from British Motor Museum collection

History

Chassis number 35500003A holds a unique place in automotive history as the first Range Rover completed to final production specification. Among 28 pre-production chassis built ahead of the model's launch, YVB 153H was hand-finished by December 17th, 1969, earlier than the two preceding chassis numbers, specifically because photographer Alan Luckett required a blue vehicle for the official launch photography. This historically important car also starred in the dealership launch film, aptly titled 'A Car for All Reasons', helping to introduce the revolutionary Range Rover to the world.

After serving Rover's promotional needs until early 1972, the vehicle was sold to William Ellis Garages in Oswestry before eventually finding its way to Norwegian photographer Per Lochen by the late 1980s. Recognising the significance of this early Range Rover, the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust tracked down the car in 1991 and successfully negotiated its acquisition, despite its deteriorated condition. A painstaking restoration in 2006 returned YVB 153H to its original launch specification, allowing this automotive treasure to feature in anniversary celebrations, television programmes and magazine features, where it continues to captivate enthusiasts and preserve an important chapter of British motoring heritage.