Corgi Diecast Model

Vintage Bus Lines Series

Birney Safety Car Trolley - Chicago Surface Lines, destination: Division / Austin

1:48 Scale (O Gauge).  Length: 7"


Limited Edition

In 1921, Chicago Surface Lines took delivery of six single-truck, single-door Birney Cars. They were the first modern one-man cars to operate in the city and were assigned to lightly traveled routes. But, even in light service, they were considered unsatisfactory due to the bumpy ride.

The Birney Safety Car was an electric trolley developed in the 1910s by Charles O. Birney and Joseph M. Bosenbury. The small and lightweight cars were intended to provide frequent service at a lower infrastructure and labor cost than conventional streetcars. The Birney was popular in small cities because they were economical. For larger cities, Birney cars were used on lightly traveled routes where larger cars were not justifiable. The Birney car was approximately 28 feet in length and typically had seating for up to 32 passengers.


Corgi is a leading manufacturer of high quality, pre-built, diecast models. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using the specifications of the original vehicle. Corgi models are constructed with precision-made diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of a Birney Safety Car Trolley features: