{"title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 Black Beetle","description":"\u003ch1\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 Black Beetle\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShop the legendary \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497\u003c\/strong\u003e, also known as the \u003cstrong\u003eBlack Beetle\u003c\/strong\u003e, at Fusion Scale Hobbies. This unique Kato release brings one of the most unusual experimental railcars in American railroad history to N scale, recreating the New York Central M-497 Jet Powered RDC with the smooth performance, sharp detail, and collector appeal Kato is known for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale NYC M-497 Jet Powered RDC Models\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe New York Central M-497 was a one-of-a-kind jet-powered Budd Rail Diesel Car tested in 1966, famous for reaching 183 mph during high-speed trials. This \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 collection\u003c\/a\u003e includes multiple versions for different operators and collectors, including standard DC, DCC, DCC\/Sound, and interior light equipped options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBuilt for N Scale Collectors and Operators\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you are building a New York Central display, adding a conversation-piece railcar to your layout, or expanding your \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale\u003c\/a\u003e lineup, the Jet Powered RDC is a standout model. With its streamlined 1960s experimental appearance, illuminated jet engine feature, rear KATO knuckle coupler, and smooth running performance, this model is ideal for both display and operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAvailable in DC, DCC, Sound, and Interior Light Versions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis collection includes factory-configured options for modelers who want simple DC operation, upgraded \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, sound-equipped performance, or interior lighting. The DCC\/Sound versions are especially appealing for hobbyists who want the custom jet and swooshing sound experience that makes the Black Beetle even more distinctive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eShop Kato Trains at Fusion Scale Hobbies\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFusion Scale Hobbies carries a wide selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, N scale locomotives, rolling stock, track, accessories, and specialty releases. Browse this NYC M-497 Black Beetle collection along with our full selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e to find premium products for your railroad, collection, or next layout project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","products":[{"product_id":"kat1661966","title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC New York Central NYC #M-497 Experimental Railcar - KAT1661966","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 Black Beetle\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497\u003c\/strong\u003e brings one of the most unusual experimental railcars in American railroad history to your N scale layout. Known as the \u003cstrong\u003eBlack Beetle\u003c\/strong\u003e, the New York Central M-497 was a jet-powered Budd RDC tested in 1966 and famous for reaching 183 mph during high-speed trials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis standard version is a great choice for collectors and operators looking to add a unique piece of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497\u003c\/a\u003e history to their railroad. It features Kato’s smooth running performance, a distinctive 1960s streamlined look, illuminated jet engine detail when moving forward, and a rear KATO knuckle coupler for connecting to compatible rolling stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNew York Central NYC #M-497 Jet Powered RDC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFamous experimental “Black Beetle” railcar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eStandard DC operation\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eJet engine lights up when moving forward\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth Kato running performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRear KATO knuckle coupler\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUpgradable with interior lighting\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCompatible with KATO Soundbox soundcard, sold separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShop more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e at Fusion Scale Hobbies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Kato","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48906353508608,"sku":"KAT1661966","price":87.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/files\/4021661966.jpg?v=1782873133"},{"product_id":"kat1661966dcc","title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC New York Central NYC #M-497 Experimental Railcar - DCC - KAT1661966DCC","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC\u003c\/strong\u003e brings the legendary New York Central \u003cstrong\u003eBlack Beetle\u003c\/strong\u003e to N scale with factory-installed DCC control. This experimental jet-powered Budd RDC was built in 1966 and tested at an incredible 183 mph, making it one of the most unique railcars ever connected to American railroad history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis DCC version is ideal for operators who want digital control without onboard sound. As part of the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 lineup\u003c\/a\u003e, it features Kato’s smooth running performance, illuminated jet engine detail when moving forward, a rear KATO knuckle coupler, and the unmistakable streamlined 1960s appearance of the Jet Powered RDC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNew York Central NYC #M-497 Jet Powered RDC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed DCC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNo sound\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFamous experimental “Black Beetle” railcar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eJet engine lights up when moving forward\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth Kato running performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRear KATO knuckle coupler\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUpgradable with interior lighting\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCompatible with KATO Soundbox soundcard, sold separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShop more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato model railroad products\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale trains\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e at Fusion Scale Hobbies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Kato","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48906358980864,"sku":"KAT1661966DCC","price":152.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/files\/4021661966DCC.jpg?v=1782873433"},{"product_id":"kat1661966s","title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC New York Central NYC #M-497 Experimental Railcar - DCC\/Sound - KAT1661966S","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC\/Sound\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC\/Sound\u003c\/strong\u003e brings the famous New York Central \u003cstrong\u003eBlack Beetle\u003c\/strong\u003e to life with digital control and sound. The real M-497 was a jet-powered Budd RDC built in 1966 and tested at 183 mph, making it one of the most recognizable experimental railcars in American railroad history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis DCC\/Sound version is the ideal choice for modelers who want the full Jet RDC experience, including custom swooshing and jet-inspired sound. As part of the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 collection\u003c\/a\u003e, it features smooth Kato performance, illuminated jet engine detail when moving forward, a rear KATO knuckle coupler, and the unique 1960s streamlined look of the NYC experimental railcar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNew York Central NYC #M-497 Jet Powered RDC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed DCC\/Sound\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCustom jet and swooshing sound effects\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFamous experimental “Black Beetle” railcar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eJet engine lights up when moving forward\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth Kato running performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRear KATO knuckle coupler\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUpgradable with interior lighting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShop more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC\/Sound model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato products\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale trains\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e at Fusion Scale Hobbies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Kato","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48906373464320,"sku":"KAT1661966S","price":219.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/files\/4021661966S.jpg?v=1782873599"},{"product_id":"kat1661966s1","title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC New York Central NYC #M-497 Experimental Railcar - DCC\/Sound + Interior Lights - KAT1661966S1","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC\/Sound with Interior Lights\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC\/Sound with Interior Lights\u003c\/strong\u003e is the fully upgraded version of Kato’s legendary Black Beetle model. Based on the New York Central M-497, this jet-powered Budd RDC was tested in 1966 and reached 183 mph, becoming one of the most unusual high-speed rail experiments ever built.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis version combines factory-installed DCC\/Sound with interior lighting for the most complete operating experience in the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 collection\u003c\/a\u003e. With custom jet and swooshing sound effects, illuminated jet engine detail when moving forward, smooth Kato performance, and interior lights, this Black Beetle model is built to stand out on any N scale layout or display shelf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNew York Central NYC #M-497 Jet Powered RDC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed DCC\/Sound\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed interior lights\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCustom jet and swooshing sound effects\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFamous experimental “Black Beetle” railcar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eJet engine lights up when moving forward\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth Kato running performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRear KATO knuckle coupler\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC\/Sound trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato model trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale products\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e at Fusion Scale Hobbies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Kato","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48906377658624,"sku":"KAT1661966S1","price":294.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/files\/4021661966S1.jpg?v=1782873860"},{"product_id":"kat1661966dcc1","title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC New York Central NYC #M-497 Experimental Railcar - DCC + Interior Lights - KAT1661966DCC1","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC with Interior Lights\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 DCC with Interior Lights\u003c\/strong\u003e is a standout version of Kato’s famous Black Beetle release. Based on the New York Central M-497, this experimental jet-powered Budd RDC was tested in 1966 and reached 183 mph, securing its place as one of the most unusual and fascinating railcars in railroad history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis DCC and interior light equipped model is perfect for N scale operators who want digital control plus added lighting detail. Part of the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 collection\u003c\/a\u003e, it combines smooth Kato operation, illuminated jet engine detail when moving forward, factory-installed interior lighting, and the distinctive streamlined profile of the NYC Black Beetle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNew York Central NYC #M-497 Jet Powered RDC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed DCC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNo sound\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFactory-installed interior lights\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFamous experimental “Black Beetle” railcar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eJet engine lights up when moving forward\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth Kato running performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRear KATO knuckle coupler\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCompatible with KATO Soundbox soundcard, sold separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFind more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e at Fusion Scale Hobbies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Kato","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48906634068224,"sku":"KAT1661966DCC1","price":209.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/files\/4021661966DCC1.jpg?v=1782874089"},{"product_id":"kat16619661","title":"Kato N Scale Jet Powered RDC New York Central NYC #M-497 Experimental Railcar - Interior Lights - KAT16619661","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 with Interior Lights\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 with Interior Lights\u003c\/strong\u003e captures the unforgettable New York Central experimental railcar known as the \u003cstrong\u003eBlack Beetle\u003c\/strong\u003e. Built from a Budd RDC and fitted with jet engines, the real M-497 reached 183 mph during 1966 testing, making it one of the most memorable high-speed railroad experiments in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis interior light equipped version adds extra visual appeal for display cases, passenger stations, and operating N scale layouts. It is part of the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497\"\u003eKato N Scale Jet Powered RDC NYC #M-497 collection\u003c\/a\u003e and features smooth Kato performance, illuminated jet engine detail when moving forward, and the unique streamlined appearance that makes the Jet RDC stand out from any standard passenger consist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNew York Central NYC #M-497 Jet Powered RDC\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFamous experimental “Black Beetle” railcar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eStandard DC operation with interior lights\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eJet engine lights up when moving forward\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth Kato running performance\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRear KATO knuckle coupler\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCompatible with KATO Soundbox soundcard, sold separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse more \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato\"\u003eKato trains\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale\"\u003eKato N Scale models\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/dcc\"\u003eDCC model railroad products\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/trains\"\u003emodel trains\u003c\/a\u003e at Fusion Scale Hobbies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Kato","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48907157602560,"sku":"KAT16619661","price":125.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/files\/40216619661.jpg?v=1782874594"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/collections\/40216619661.jpg?v=1782874861","url":"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/collections\/kato-n-scale-jet-powered-rdc-nyc-m-497.oembed","provider":"Fusion Scale Hobbies","version":"1.0","type":"link"}