Hero of the Rails/Behind the Scenes

Character/Building Models
In 2009, the series introduced Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) as a replacement for the show's long-standing live-action models. Characters, buildings and locations were recreated from scratch in CGI by Nitrogen Studios. The models were "hand-sculpted" in Maya, a 3D animation and modelling software. However, test footage was created by Stardust Pictures as they recreated scenes from Thomas and the Stinky Cheese. The original gauge 1 models on display at Nitrogen Studios (They are currently stored by the Hara Model Railway Museum.) or the production measurement reference and photographs of each characters were used for reference. According to Greg Tiernan, every detail of the original television series models for each character is carefully reproduced in the CGI model. The models are subjected to many rounds of review before they are submitted to HiT Entertainment for final input and approval.

Faces
As reference for merchandise makers, the production team made moulded faces of the engines, explaining why the merchandising faces for Victor, Kevin and Hiro are so similar. These faces were designed by model maker, John Lee.

Pipeline Videos
Three videos from Nitrogen Studios’ defunct YouTube channel showcased the storyboards, pre-visualization and animation of the chase scene.