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Driving School Models - Page 1

Documents and stories about driving school models:
Information from fahrschulmodell.com
Driving School Models (PDF)
Oldtimer Magazine, February 1995

Many of the items on display here are from European Driver's Schools. The early driving schools there taught the car owners and/or chauffeur how to work on, as well as how to drive, their automobiles. This was originally accomplished on the actual vehicles, although it was messy, uncomfortable, and less than ideal. In the late 1930s, Emil Hohm, on Opel dealer in Germany, developed the first instructional models which could clearly demonstrate the function of the motor vehicle. The German military made extensive use of instruction models during World War II.

In the post-war era, driving schools flourished in Europe and the functioning instruction model became a part of their basic curriculum. Some of these models were complete frames with all of the attendant systems while others were of specific systems.

The Hohm Company built approximately 1000 of the complete frames and system instruction models after the war. The engines could be turned over (some with the engine hand cranks), driving a 3-speed + reverse transmission through a functioning clutch. This drove the rear wheels through a fully operational differential. Both the foot and hand brakes were functional, as were the steering, suspension, and lights. Four-wheel drive models were constructed as well as the more common two-wheel drive versions. Trailers with surge brakes were another item often modeled.

These instruction models have little use in modern driver's schools and have turned into rare and valuable collectors items.

This large half scale driving school model was made in Germany in the 1950s by Werner Degener. It is very rare, and fully operational. Originally built with 220 volt power, we have converted it to run on 110 volt. This model features a 4 cylinder engine with a cutaway that clearly demonstrates the functions of the motor as well as the transmission, clutch, rear end, etc. All of the car’s lights work, including high and low beams, brake lights, as well as the turn signals. Ron Sturgeon added this wonderful model to his collection in 2003.

This driving school model is an excellent example of a German-made four piece cut away training model from the 1950s. Cleverly designed, the motor snaps to the clutch which snaps to the transmission back to the rear end. It is powered by a 220 volt electric motor. Ron Sturgeon acquired this very rare replica for his collection in 2005.

Pictured here is a showcase full of different model toys, including motorcycles, scooters, cars and trucks of all makes. The model on the top of the showcase is a 1950s VVR electric German-made driving school model. Above on the wall are two other driving school models; one features a motor with moving piston and valves, and the larger one shows how an air brake system functions and was used for the training of truck drivers.

Shown here are two display cases with eight Hohm driving school models from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, all made in Germany. Each of these delightful demonstration models are 220 volt powered. They form part of an acquisition made by Ron Sturgeon in 2003.

In this showcase are many different toys. Two VVR driving school models sit on top. On the wall behind is a large air brake system demonstration model which shows how an air brake system functions; it was used for truck driver training.