Category: news

Pro-Line Toyota HiLux SR5 Body for SCX24

In response to the high demand from enthusiasts, Pro-Line has released the Toyota HiLux SR5 body for the Axial SCX24 mini crawler. Although it’s a smaller-scale body, the attention to detail is uncompromised!

PRO363600

Pro-Line has meticulously crafted this body to feature precise scale details and the iconic 1980s vintage look. Whether you’re hitting the trails or embarking on micro-adventures, this body is sure to please, bringing back those classic memories. Made from clear and durable polycarbonate material, this soft body comes with high-quality stickers, including fender stripes and window masks. The body is delivered in an unpainted, transparent state. Product number: PRO363600.

Tamiya 1/14 Scania 770 S 8×4/4 Gun Metal Edition

Tamiya has released the 1/14 Electric RC Tractor Truck Series No. 76, featuring the Scania 770 S 8×4/4 (Gun Metal Edition), which comes pre-painted and fully assembled from the factory.

Scania is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of large trucks. This RC model replicates the top-tier S-series Scania tractor truck, equipped with a 770-horsepower 16.4-liter V8 turbo diesel engine. It features an 8-wheel configuration with the front two axles providing steering and the rear two axles providing power. The Tamiya model comes with an assembled 3-speed transmission, allowing for gear changes via the remote control while driving. The rear of the cabin includes a detailed equipment tower, accurately representing the fuel tanks and air tanks, giving the model a robust and realistic appearance. The interior has been designed to accommodate the optional Multi-Function Unit (sold separately) and a driving battery. The second axle has a manual lift function, enabling the tires to be lifted off the ground when towing lighter loads, enhancing driving efficiency and delivering a real-world driving experience. The cabin is richly detailed with a circular dashboard, seats, and comes with a 1/14 scale driver figure to enhance realism. The overall dimensions are 610mm in length, 196mm in width, and 320mm in height. Product number 56376, scheduled for release in December 2024.


Key Features:

•   Body Characteristics: The cabin, front bumper, front fenders, and roof are all pre-painted in gun metal and coated with a clear protective layer to ensure a flawless finish.
•   3-Speed Assembly Transmission: Equipped with a 3-speed transmission as standard, it provides the thrill of remote-controlled gear shifting during operation when paired with a 4-channel transmitter.
•   Chassis Design: Features a trapezoidal frame with aluminum side rails and plastic cross members, including a coupling device for connecting semi-trailers.
•   Power System: The front axle is powered by the TR Mighty Tune motor, with power transferred to the rear axles through a 3-speed transmission and drive shaft. Differential gears ensure smooth handling during turns.
•   Steering System: The front two axles are controlled by a single servo, with different steering angles for each axle to deliver a realistic steering experience.
•   Lift Axle Function: The second axle includes a manual lift function, simulating real-world design to improve driving efficiency.
•   Suspension System: A realistic suspension system consisting of metal leaf springs and friction dampers.
•   Customizable Accessories: The model features detailed accessories such as a roof light bar, grille guards, and side steps. The equipment tower at the rear of the cabin accurately replicates fuel tanks and air tanks.
•   Interior Details: The model includes detailed interior features such as a circular dashboard and seats, along with a driver figure, enhancing the realistic feel.

Tamiya 1/10 Porsche 956 Chassis Release​

Tamiya has revealed the chassis details for their new 1/10 Porsche 956 model, product number 47508. The overall chassis length is 483mm, with a width of 207mm and a height of 108mm. The composite frame is primarily a bathtub design, with a space frame at the front and rear, and an FRP plate on the bottom. The front suspension features an independent kingpin and coil spring design, while the rear suspension is controlled by a 1.5mm thick FRP T-bar and CVA oil dampers. The drivetrain is a 2WD direct-drive system, where the motor power is transmitted directly to the main gear, which includes a built-in ball differential. The body is made from polycarbonate (soft-shell), accurately replicating the sleek, aerodynamic appearance of the Porsche 956. This product is expected to be released in November 2024, with a price of 23,980 yen. The images show the assembled and painted model version.

Team Associated SR27 Ready-To-Run

Team Associated (AE) has launched the all-new SR27 Ready-To-Run (RTR) 1/27 scale mini RC car, suitable for players of all RC skill levels, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts. Its compact size allows players to easily turn their living room or small spaces into an exciting race track! The car is powered by AAA batteries, with the Datsun 240z available in three colors and the Nissan Z in two. According to information provided by AE, the SR27 features a soft-shell design, and some chassis parts may be compatible with the popular Kyosho Mini-Z. However, the SR27 product line is still in its early stages, and compared to the well-established Mini-Z with its wide range of original parts, third-party upgrades, and organized racing events, AE’s SR27 still has a long way to go. Hopefully, this series won’t just be a short-lived “toy-grade mini RC car.”

Features:

• Ready-to-run with balanced handling performance out of the box
• Supports rechargeable AAA batteries
• Adjustable front and rear body mounts, allowing the chassis to fit hard-shell bodies after removal
• Highly detailed wheels with specific offsets, balancing aesthetics and performance
• Integrated electronic speed controller and receiver with gyro stabilization
• Adjustable track width: includes wide and narrow front-end components
• Adjustable wheelbase: includes mid-motor and rear-motor mount components
• Offers adjustable gear ratio options
• Equipped with a gear differential
• Independent servo with a servo saver for protection
• Metric hardware used throughout the vehicle
• Includes 1.3mm and 1.5mm L-shaped wrenches, and 4.0mm and 5.5mm nut drivers
• Designed to be compatible with various aftermarket parts
• Equipped with metal ball bearings
• Licensed, highly detailed polycarbonate body

The Untold Story Behind the Creation of the Tamiya Lunchbox and Midnight Pumpkin Mascot Logos

Behind-the-scene story of the creation of the Tamiya Lunchbox and Midnight Pumpkin mascot marks

Teruo Sahara introduces the behind-the-scenes story of the creation of the Lunchbox and Midnight Pumpkin mascot marks with illustrations. The story of the birth of this long-loved character is a must-see for RC fans.

Telly’s On The Road Again Vol.47, Time Travel! My Tamiya RC History

In the 1980s, I was completely immersed in RC car racing, and switched from window cars to 1/8th scale engine cars. In 1985 and 1987, I competed in the World Championships in Japan and California, USA, but independent suspension and 4WD were too much for me to handle, so I stayed away from racing after the US tour.


In the world of electric RC cars, off-road models were at their peak, and many variations were born, including not only buggy types but also rally cars and grasshoppers. In the 1980s and 1990s, it seemed like new cars were debuting almost every month in all genres, including racing sports, touring, formula, and off-road. Among these was the Lunchbox. High-level machines like the Hot Shot to basic 380 motor buggies, there was a big pre-model. The image of the popular practical monster machine, which was popular for its wild attractions such as lifting up one wheel during jumps, was well utilized, and was still selling well.

One day in 1987, I received an order to create a mascot character for a new model of this big tire. I remember being so happy that I was given a job by Tamiya-sama, whom I admire. The body of the car was reminiscent of a full-size Dodge, and its nickname was “Lunchbox.” It was probably a story about a lunch delivery service for Vanessa’s Lunchbox.

With a wink to decorated with stars and stripes, and her blonde hair fluttering, it felt like “Hi, Vanessa!” The thumbs-up Vanessa was combined with a bold color scheme like the orange and the 1960s, and the result was the best.

RGT Challenger PRO – Equipped with FOC Brushless Power System

Since its launch at the end of 2022, the RGT “Challenger” has gained widespread recognition in the market for its powerful configuration and outstanding performance. To further refine and enhance product performance, RGT has introduced the new FOC upgraded version, the “Challenger PRO,” to better meet market demands. The upgraded “Challenger PRO” features a Hobbywing FOC brushless system specifically designed for crawlers (WP Fusion BL SYS for Crawler-540Spec-RTR). It utilizes Field-Oriented Control (FOC) technology, providing strong low-speed torque and excellent linearity. The motor operates smoothly and quietly, offering superior waterproof and dustproof performance, making it capable of handling various weather conditions and terrains with ease.

Compared to the standard version, the PRO upgrade retains key features such as portal axle structure, two-speed transmission, DIG transmission disconnect function, front-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive modes, as well as a winch function. Additionally, the PRO version introduces an automatic rear anti-roll bar unlock design. The vehicle is equipped with five servos, all featuring metal powder gears. The steering servo has been upgraded to a 35KG full-metal servo. The front steering knuckle cover is made from brass for added weight distribution, and the new full-metal shock absorbers feature a nano-coating process on the shock shafts, ensuring greater hardness and smoother suspension performance.

EX86170PRO

Exterior Design:

The upgraded “Challenger PRO” retains the classic body design while adding cockpit and truck bed decorations. The body is coated using a multi-layer spray process, improving durability and reducing paint wear due to friction. The body is further reinforced with internal and external roll cage supports, offering strength comparable to hard-shell plastic.

FOC System Features:

  • Integrated ESC and motor design, significantly reducing size and weight for a cleaner chassis layout.
  • Strong low-speed torque and superior low-speed linearity, with quiet and smooth motor operation.
  • IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof system, providing excellent performance in all weather and terrain conditions.
  • Intelligent torque output and speed closed-loop control, offering cruise control and hill descent functions similar to real vehicles.
  • Multi-level drag brake adjustment, with maximum drag brake force approximately twice that of standard brushless systems, providing exceptional hill-holding capability.
  • Multiple protection features, including low-voltage protection, overheat protection, throttle signal loss protection, and stall protection.
  • Supports ESC parameter configuration using an LED programming card, with a dedicated parameter setting interface integrated into the switch for easier adjustments.

Transmission System:

  • Low center of gravity design with metal gears and a 45# steel reduction shaft, improving durability and reliability.
  • Two-speed high and low transmission, with a DIG rear axle lock function for tighter turning radius and front-wheel drive disconnect capability.
  • CNC machined motor mount made from 6061 aluminum, compatible with 17-21T pinion gears.

Front and Rear Axle Structure:

  • Portal axle design enhances ground clearance.
  • The axle housing gears feature CNC machined steel helical gears, raising the height of the front and rear drive shafts.
  • The portal reduction gears are made of powdered steel, with brass front steering knuckle covers for improved weight distribution.
  • The axle-mounted steering servo structure uses impact-resistant nylon for the C-hub and steering knuckles.

Servos:

  • Equipped with 5 waterproof 7.4V metal gear servos.
  • Steering servo upgraded to a 35KG full-metal servo.
  • 25KG 360-degree metal winch servo with a hidden conduit steel cable design. The stock winch cable can extend up to 90CM, supporting up to 15KG of pulling force.

Additional Features:

  • Remote-controlled electric unlock anti-roll bar design, enhancing turning stability when locked, reducing body roll, and increasing suspension travel when unlocked for improved off-road capability.
  • Realistic full-metal shock absorbers with nano-coated shock shafts for increased durability and smoothness.
  • 1.9-inch electroplated wheels with a realistic design, with wider and deeper-treaded tires for improved crawling performance.
  • Full-metal gears and high-precision sealed bearings, along with steel central CVD shafts, ensuring smooth drivetrain performance without concerns of gear stripping or axle breakage.
  • The PRO version features a new matte paint finish, providing scratch resistance and easy cleaning. The new version also includes interior cabin details and truck bed decorations, available in two colors: Dark Rock Gray and Army Green.

RGT “Challenger PRO” Specifications:

  • Model Number: EX86170PRO
  • Product Name: Challenger
  • Description: 1/10 Electric Off-Road Vehicle
  • Length: 502mm
  • Wheelbase: 313mm
  • Width: 258mm
  • Height: 246mm
  • Ground Clearance: 70mm (chassis), 54mm (axle housing)
  • Drive Modes: Front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive
  • Departure Angle: 30°
  • Approach Angle: 80°
  • Front/Rear Speed Ratio: 6.60%
  • Departure Angle: 70°
  • Wheels (Diameter/Width): 120mm / 45mm
  • Gear Ratio (Low): 49.8:1 (front), 53:1 (rear)
  • Gear Ratio (High): 26.3:1 (front), 28:1 (rear)
  • Gears: Full metal
  • Motor/ESC: Integrated FOC system
  • Motor: Brushless / 1800kv
  • ESC: Brushless / 40A
  • Steering Servo: High-pressure full-metal 35KG servo
  • Battery Recommendation (not included): 2S-3S LiPo or 7.2V NiMH
  • Winch Servo: 360-degree digital metal gear 25KG
  • Winch Cable: 0.8mm diameter, 90CM long
  • Remote/Receiver: 2.4G / 8CH
  • Auxiliary Servo: 7.4V / 9G (metal powder gears) 3P
  • Battery Recommendation (not included): 2S-3S LiPo or 7.2V NiMH
  • Body Color (Matte): Dark Rock Gray, Army Green

Tamiya Porsche 956 Gr. C

A few days ago, RCFans reported that Tamiya was planning to release a classic RC car model, the Porsche 956 Gr.C with product number 47508. Now, the detailed information about this new car has been officially revealed, leaving no doubt about everyone’s love for Porsche!

Tamiya Porsche 956 Group C

Today, Tamiya officially announced that they will launch a brand new product at the end of October 2024 — a 1/10 scale RC model of the 1982 Porsche 956 Group C race car. This new body shell, created from an entirely new mold, will be mounted on an easy-to-assemble ABS bathtub chassis, which features a space frame and FRP plate construction. This design has been previously used in Tamiya’s other Group C models. This is a new release from Tamiya, not a reissue of the 1/12 RM model.

The unique long-tail body, front and rear light cases, and wing are all separately molded in polycarbonate, and the car is equipped with black ABS plastic side mirrors and wing stays. The chassis, based on an ABS bathtub design, combines front and rear space frames with FRP plates to create a composite structure that provides a solid foundation for a smoothly operating suspension system, resulting in a responsive and agile driving experience. The new car comes with a Sport-Tuned motor (configurations may vary by region) and features a direct drive setup. The gears and pinions are connected by a ball pressure plate differential, ensuring smooth cornering performance.

The front wheels use enclosed dish-style hubs, while the rear wheels feature a five-spoke design, both paired with high-grip sponge tires (wheels require painting). This 1/10 scale RC model assembly kit has a length of 483mm, width of 207mm, height of 108mm, and a wheelbase of 270mm. The product number is 47508.