Instead, the tiny trucks are destined to decorate executive desks or add realism to model train and road layouts.
The die-cast replicas are being made by internationally-famous model-makers Schuco of Germany, following a trademark licensing agreement with Pilkington. Two versions are being produced - one, for collectors, on a scale of 1:87 and a second, for Schuco's Junior Line, on a scale of 1:43. The smaller version is compatible with the HO scale for model trains.
"Schuco already have one floatliner in their range so we were aware of the vehicle's special design and construction," said Schuco product manager Markus Weigand. "When I saw a Pilkington floatliner on the motorway, I was impressed by the way it looked and decided it would make a good model."
The floatliners will be available in stores in 2005.
Mini fleet for Pilkington
A fleet of thousands of new Pilkington floatliners is about to start rolling off the production line. But at just a few inches long, these wagons won't be carrying their usual 20-tonne loads of Pilkington glass to customers worldwide.