HJ2458 SNCF, BB 436013 "Bonnencontre", green livery, ep. VI

The HO scale (1:87) model of the SNCF BB 36000 electric locomotive is one of the most highly regarded pieces of rolling stock among railway modellers. Jouef first released a detailed replica of the BB 36000 in 1999. Since then, this model has been regularly reissued with updated liveries, revised running numbers, and technical improvements such as factory-fitted DCC decoders and full sound functionality (DCC Sound).

Over the years, various versions have been produced, including several of the ten “Astride” locomotives that were officially named after cities. These named locomotives have become especially desirable among collectors, with many modellers aiming to complete full sub-collections within the class.

In the early days of French railways, it was common practice to name locomotives after towns along their routes—an approach that lasted until the late 19th century. When the BB 15000 electric class was introduced, a proposal was made to revive this tradition by applying municipal coats of arms. This was supported by the city of Metz, and on 2 June 1973, BB 15006 was ceremonially named, marking the return of this custom. Since then, over 630 SNCF motive power units have carried town emblems or logos, either as cast aluminium plaques or adhesive decals affixed to the bodysides. These locomotives serve as mobile ambassadors for their respective cities.

On 21 May 2001, BB 436031—assigned to cross-border freight services between France and Italy under Fret SNCF—was officially named “Bons-en-Chablais” and “Castione della Presolana,” commemorating the twinning of these two European municipalities.

The Italian HO model railway market is also of key importance to Jouef and its parent company, UK-based Hornby, which now owns the iconic French brand. Given its symbolic significance, the BB 436031 (in its unbranded form prior to naming) became an essential addition to the Jouef catalogue. Since 2024, the model is available in HO scale under reference numbers HJ2458 (standard DC version) and HJ2458S (DCC Sound-fitted version).