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  • LEGO Beams Into the Original Series with U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Bridge Set

    LEGO Beams Into the Original Series with U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Bridge Set

    LEGO is taking adult builders where no brick has gone before — at least not in this configuration. To mark the 60th anniversary of Star Trek: The Original Series, the LEGO Group has officially unveiled 11385 U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Bridge, a 1,701-piece diorama that recreates the starship’s command center and transporter room.

    What’s in the Box

    The set, part of the LEGO Icons line aimed at adult fans, includes eight minifigures depicting the original Starfleet crew: James T. Kirk, Spock, Nyota Uhura, Hikaru Sulu, Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy, Pavel Chekov, Christine Chapel, and Montgomery “Scotty” Scott. Four fluffy tribbles also make the cut, along with accessories such as two Starfleet communicators (represented by printed 1×2 tiles), four phasers built from an all-new LEGO element, Spock’s harp, two Vulcan Lirpas, and a Trident Scanner.

    Building the Bridge

    The model focuses on two of the most recognizable locations from the original series. On the bridge, builders will find computer stations and a viewscreen displaying a Klingon warrior. The transporter room includes a platform for crew deployment. Once complete, the sections are modular and can be rearranged for display. The press release notes that this set gives fans “the opportunity to step inside the legendary starship from the original series for the very first time in LEGO form, with an impressive level of detail, interactive features and an all-star Starfleet crew.”

    Several interactive features recreate familiar on-screen moments. Builders can rock the captain’s chair to simulate ship turbulence during battle sequences, turn a dial to activate the transporter and move minifigures between pads, and use a lever to open the turbo lift doors.

    Release Date and Pricing

    11385 U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Bridge will launch on September 1, 2026, as part of celebrations marking the franchise’s anniversary month. Pre-orders opened today, July 23, 2026, via LEGO.com/Star-Trek and at local LEGO Stores.

    Pricing varies by region:

    • US: $199.99
    • UK: £159.99
    • EU: €179.99
    • Canada: CAD$269.99
    • Australia: AU$299.99
    • Singapore: SGD$269.90

    A Second Star Trek Set

    This is the second LEGO Star Trek set ever produced. The first, 10356 Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D, based on Star Trek: The Next Generation, debuted last year. The new set represents a shift from an exterior starship build to an interior bridge and transporter room diorama. The number of pieces in this set, 1,701, is a direct nod to the registry number NCC-1701.

    Tech and Accessibility

    The set carries an 18+ rating and comes with a digital building experience through the LEGO Builder app. Using the app, builders can view the model in 3D, zoom and rotate during construction, and track progress step by step.

    Partnership and Anniversary Context

    The LEGO Group developed the set in partnership with Paramount Products & Experiences. The release date of September 1, 2026, forms part of the celebrations marking Star Trek’s 60th anniversary month. The first episode of the original series aired in September 1966, making the launch a fitting tribute to six decades of the franchise.

    11385 U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Bridge is available for pre-order now, with worldwide retail availability set for September 1, 2026, via LEGO.com and LEGO Stores.

  • CowRC Drops a 50W Beast of a Desk Lamp for Serious Hobbyists

    CowRC Drops a 50W Beast of a Desk Lamp for Serious Hobbyists

    If you’ve ever tried to detail a model car or solder a tiny RC receiver under a dim workbench light, you know the frustration of shadows. CowRC thinks it has the fix: a 50W ultra-bright LED desk lamp with a massive 32-inch panel that floods the entire bench with even, glare-free light.

    Big Panel, Big Numbers

    The lamp packs 684 high-luminous SMD LEDs and pumps out over 650 foot-candles of illumination — enough to light up a full workbench with no dark corners. CowRC rates the output at 4,500 lumens, which puts it well beyond typical hobby lamps. The company says the lamp is already a favorite in commercial workshops and labs, and it’s now being marketed directly to RC builders, painters, and tinkerers.

    Built for Precision Work

    CowRC designed the lamp for detailed tasks: painting, soldering, wrenching, upgrading, and inspecting RC cars, planes, drones, and boats. The extra-wide panel sits on a sturdy swingarm mount that must be attached to a solid surface for safety. The 360-degree flexible lockable metal swing arm lets you position the light exactly where you need it, and it stays put once locked.

    The lamp uses stepless dimming and stepless color temperature adjustment from warm 3,000K to crisp daylight 6,500K. Four intuitive touch controls on the lamp body let you adjust brightness and color without fumbling. The construction mixes aluminum alloy and ABS, so it’s built for daily workshop abuse.

    Specs at a Glance

    CowRC lists the following specifications:

    • Input voltage: AC 110V/220V (dual voltage)
    • Wattage: 50W
    • Luminous flux: 4,500 lumens
    • Color temperature range: 3,000K – 6,500K
    • Lifetime: 30,000 hours
    • Certifications: LVD, EMC, RoHS, ETL

    The lamp carries multiple electrical safety certifications, which should give hobbyists confidence leaving it on for long sessions.

    A Broader Lineup

    CowRC isn’t new to the lighting space. The company also offers a 24W gooseneck desk lamp with a similar 32-inch soft LED wand. That model features a 360-degree flexible metal gooseneck with silicone coating, a remote control, and four touch switches. It delivers 2,400 lumens with stepless adjustment from 2,700K to 6,500K and is rated for 50,000 hours. The gooseneck model is aimed at the same hobbyist audience but gives users an option if they prefer a flexible neck over a lockable swing arm. Its certifications are US, FCC, CE, and PSE.

    Ready to Go

    The 50W swingarm lamp is available now at CowRC.com. Setup takes just a few minutes, according to the company. The lamp comes ready to transform an RC station in minutes. For builders who battle shadows on a daily basis, this might be the upgrade that finally makes every detail visible.

    CowRC positions this lamp as one that serious RC enthusiasts have been looking for. The company targets not only RC car builders but also those working on planes, drones, and boats, along with painters and general tinkerers. The lamp’s 30,000-hour rated lifespan means years of daily use before any LED degradation becomes noticeable.

  • Learn Physics by Building Stuff: New Make: Live Event Spotlights Hands-On Book

    Learn Physics by Building Stuff: New Make: Live Event Spotlights Hands-On Book

    If you ever wished physics class involved more 3D printing and blinking LEDs, a new online event this Friday is made for you. Make: is hosting a Make: Live session on July 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM Pacific Time to dive into Make: Physics, a freshly released book that teaches calculus-based mechanics through actual building projects.

    The event features authors Joan Horvath and Rich Cameron, who have spent more than a decade teaching educators and scientists how to use maker technology. Their new book, subtitled Building projects to explore calculus-based mechanics, uses BBC micro:bit processors, 3D prints, and other low-cost materials to bring kinematics, energy, momentum, rotation, and related topics to life.

    A Hands-On Approach to Mechanics

    Rather than relying on passive lectures or abstract problem sets, Make: Physics is built around simple models and hands-on experiments that connect calculus directly to physical phenomena. The authors argue that this learn-by-doing method can challenge advanced high schoolers, first-year college engineering students, and adults who want to re-engage with science — including those Horvath calls “regretters”: people who took physics before but didn’t really learn it.

    In an interview, Horvath explained that the book was not aimed primarily at classroom teachers bound by AP curricula. “I think the big audience will be home schoolers who are ahead of their peers, afterschool programs who cater to those students, and adults teaching themselves (maybe with their kids),” she said. “We have kept the projects cheap and micro:bit based, and that lends itself to the informal ed crowd.”

    Horvath and Cameron are no strangers to bridging math and making. They have previously published books with Make: on calculus, trigonometry, and geometry, all with a similar project-driven philosophy.

    Who’s It For?

    The book targets advanced high schoolers and first-year college students in engineering or physics, but it’s also designed for lifelong learners who missed out on physics the first time around. Horvath noted that she hoped to reach “regretters” — “those who took physics but didn’t learn it well at the time, or never took it.” The projects are deliberately inexpensive, relying on micro:bit boards and 3D-printed parts, making the approach feasible for home school co-ops, after-school clubs, and self-study.

    Featured Guests

    During the live session, the authors will walk through the book’s projects and discuss how hands-on experiments can teach complex concepts more effectively than passive listening. Joining them are two special guests who will offer additional perspectives:

    • Dr. Simon Huss, STEAM Director at Windward School, will share the educator’s view on what happens when these projects are placed in front of actual students.
    • Dr. Mina Sun, a scientist and advocate for blind and non-visual learners, will discuss how hands-on making can open science to everyone — a perspective often missing from STEM education.

    The event promises to be interactive: viewers are invited to bring their curiosity and questions.

    How to Watch

    The Make: Live – Physics in Action session streams on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM Pacific Time. It is free and open to anyone interested in reimagining physics education through making. The book Make: Physics is available in the Maker Shed for those who want to follow along with the projects at home.

  • First Look: BBR’s Maserati MCPura Model Gets a Rosso Granturismo Finish

    First Look: BBR’s Maserati MCPura Model Gets a Rosso Granturismo Finish

    BBR has given collectors their first glimpse of a finished version of its 1:18 scale resin Maserati MCPura model, and it’s a stunner in red.

    The Italian model maker recently unveiled the first painted sample of its sealed-resin replica, finished in Rosso Granturismo. The model is one of six color options for the release, and this particular variant is capped at just 24 units worldwide. The product code for this edition is P18279B.

    What’s Under the Skin

    The real-world MCPura is the evolution of Maserati’s MC20 supercar, first presented in 2025. It keeps the carbon-fiber monocoque and sculpted proportions of its predecessor but adds subtle aerodynamic tweaks, a revised front end inspired by the GT2 Stradale, and a rear bumper that echoes the same racing lineage. The name “Pura” itself signals the brand’s focus on pure performance and elegance.

    Under the hood (or rather, behind the cabin) sits the 3.0-liter V6 Nettuno twin-turbo engine, a powerplant developed entirely in Modena. It churns out 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. The coupe version claims a 0–60 time of under 2.9 seconds and a top speed north of 202 mph, according to Maserati’s official figures.

    BBR’s 1:18 resin model captures the car’s low-slung stance, butterfly doors, and aggressive front fascia. Since it’s a sealed resin piece, there are no opening parts — a common choice for high-end static display models.

    Limited Production

    With only 24 copies of the Rosso Granturismo variant planned, collectors who want this specific color will need to act fast. The other five colors in the range haven’t been detailed, but the limited run across all variants suggests BBR is keeping this release tightly curated.

    The model is listed on BBR’s official site, where the product page notes the high-quality resin construction and 1/18 scale. For those following the evolution of Maserati’s halo car, this is a chance to own a miniature version of the brand’s latest super sports car.

    A Brief History of the MCPura

    The MCPura made its world premiere at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, wearing a special launch color called AI Aqua Rainbow. It’s built at Maserati’s historic plant in Modena, the same facility that produces the Nettuno engine, the GT2 Stradale, and the GranTurismo. The convertible version, dubbed the MCPura Cielo, features an electrochromic retractable glass roof that can switch from clear to opaque at the push of a button.

    BBR’s model is a faithful representation of the coupe body style, and the Rosso Granturismo sample is the first time the public has seen a finished painted example. For collectors, it’s a concrete sign that production is moving forward.

    The first painted sample of the BBR Maserati MCPura in Rosso Granturismo is now on display, and the limited run of 24 units means this red variant will be a rare find in any die-cast collection.

  • AUTOart Adds Stunning Blu Acapulco Metallic to Its 1:18 Lamborghini LM002

    AUTOart Adds Stunning Blu Acapulco Metallic to Its 1:18 Lamborghini LM002

    New Color for a Legendary Off-Roader

    AUTOart has revealed a new exterior finish for its upcoming 1:18 scale Lamborghini LM002 die-cast model. The car is dressed in Blu Acapulco Metallic with a Tan Brown interior, and is slated for release in September 2026. This marks the latest variant in AUTOart’s anticipated lineup of the iconic off-roader, often nicknamed the “Rambo Lamborghini.”

    The model uses AUTOart’s composite construction — a plastic body over a die-cast chassis — and includes opening doors and other moving parts. The product code is 74552.

    A Look Back at the Real LM002

    Lamborghini’s venture into off-road began with the Cheetah prototype in 1977 for the US Army, but that project was abandoned after the HMMWV won the contract. After the Mimram Group took over in 1980, the LM002 project was revived. The production version debuted at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1986 with a 5.2-liter V12 producing 444 bhp from the Countach Quattrovalvole. Later models switched to fuel injection.

    The LM002 was one of the fastest off-road vehicles of its time: it could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 223 km/h. Fuel consumption was famously high, with a contemporary road test reporting figures between 25.7 and 42 liters per 100 km.

    The Blu Acapulco color is a genuine factory shade. A 1990 LM002 in Blu Acapulco Metallizato with light grey upholstery — showing just 11,000 km and having received over €100,000 in maintenance since 2016 — was offered at a Bonhams auction in Paris in early 2024.

    Production Totals Differ Between Sources

    Different accounts from the period provide varying total production numbers for the real LM002. One source notes that 328 cars had been completed by the time production ended in 1992. Another report states that only 301 units were sold between 1986 and 1993. The discrepancy likely reflects a difference between total manufactured units and actual sales figures over slightly different timeframes, but neither figure is definitively confirmed as the official total.

    AUTOart’s Five-Color Lineup

    AUTOart is producing the LM002 in a total of five colors, with product numbers spanning from 74549 to 74553. All versions use the same composite body and opening features. Detailed production photos have been released showing the intricately modeled interior, including the distinctive wide center console and the small rear cargo area — which on the real car could be covered to act as a trunk. The model accurately captures the LM002’s massive proportions: the original stood 1.85 meters tall and over 2 meters wide.

    Collectors have long waited for a high-quality 1:18 LM002, and AUTOart’s composite model with opening parts aims to meet that demand. The German model car magazine Modell-Fahrzeug reported that all five variants will arrive in the second half of 2026. Some of those variants may hit shelves as early as August, while AUTOart specifically lists September 2026 for the Blu Acapulco Metallic edition.

    Pricing and Availability

    In Germany, the model is listed at €347.95. AUTOart specifically lists September 2026 for the Blu Acapulco Metallic edition. The Blu Acapulco Metallic variant carries product number 74552. Collectors interested in this rare color should watch for pre-order openings. The model’s composite construction and opening features make it a standout addition for fans of unusual Lamborghini history.

  • G-Force’s Tiny Gluing Station Aims to Make Perfect RC Tire Shoulders a Breeze

    G-Force’s Tiny Gluing Station Aims to Make Perfect RC Tire Shoulders a Breeze

    Gluing RC tires is one of those jobs that separates a solid build from a wobbly mess. Every experienced basher and racer knows that inconsistent adhesive application can lead to tire deformation, poor handling, and a whole lot of frustration. Now, G-Force has a new compact tool designed to take the guesswork out of that critical step: the Tire Shoulder Gluing Station.

    The device addresses a very specific pain point. Instead of manually rotating a tire while trying to apply glue evenly to the shoulder area, the station spins the tire at a constant speed. G-Force says this ensures the adhesive goes on uniformly, giving anyone—from a weekend warrior to a pit-pro—a stable, professional-level finish.

    Small Footprint, Big Feature Set

    Despite its size, the unit packs several useful features. It offers stepless speed control, so you can dial in the exact rotation rate you need. There’s also a forward/reverse rotation switch, which is a thoughtful touch for accommodating both left- and right-handed users.

    The station runs on a DC input voltage of 6V to 12V and draws a maximum of 130mA. Its rotation speed is set at 33 RPM ± 5 RPM. The operating environment is rated for 0°C to 40°C with humidity between 10% and 90% RH (non-condensing).

    Compatibility and Portability

    One of the key selling points is its wide compatibility. G-Force states the station works with a universal design that fits tires and wheels from 1/10 touring cars to 1/10 off-road vehicles. That covers a huge swath of the popular RC categories.

    At just 90 x 90 x 28.9 mm (about 3.5 inches square) and weighing only 258 grams, it’s built for the pit table. G-Force explicitly notes its compact size means it can be installed in limited spaces and is convenient to carry to races and track days. Operating volume is listed as less than 70db at a 20cm distance, so it won’t add to the pit noise.

    Why Shoulder Glue Matters

    For those new to the process, properly gluing a tire’s bead to the wheel rim is essential for consistent traction and preventing the tire from tearing or deforming under load. As a general guide from Horizon Hobby explains, the process typically involves venting the wheels, cleaning the surfaces, seating the foam insert, and then carefully applying tire glue around the bead. The G-Force station automates the final gluing step, especially the critical shoulder area that provides sidewall stiffness. G-Force notes that uniform side hardening helps suppress tire deformation and improves driving stability.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Tire Shoulder Gluing Station carries the model number #G0462 and is priced at ¥13,800 (Japanese Yen). The unit comes with the main station and operating instructions.

    G-Force is distributed in the United States by Hobby Authority Distribution. For those looking to pick one up or learn more, further details can be found on the G-Force website.

  • Factory Team HT1 Steering Block Arms Bring Rearward Ballstuds to 7 Series RC Models

    Factory Team HT1 Steering Block Arms Bring Rearward Ballstuds to 7 Series RC Models

    If you race a Team Associated 7 Series buggy or truck, Factory Team just dropped a new upgrade that adjusts steering geometry and adds throw in tight corners. The new HT1 line of steering block arms is now shipping, and it brings a familiar stability trick from the earlier HT+1 plate to a wider range of vehicles.

    What’s New with HT1?

    The HT1 name tells you exactly what’s changed: the ballstud position has been moved rearward by one step compared to the standard setup. According to Factory Team, that shift is designed to increase stability. But Factory Team didn’t stop there — the new plates can also add extra steering throw in certain configurations where the steering plate and caster block assembly normally experience interference. That means you can get more steering authority in tight corners without hitting that mechanical limit.

    Both variants are machined from carbon fiber, keeping weight low while adding strength. The result is a direct-fit upgrade that replaces the factory steering block arms on compatible models.

    Compatibility and Variants

    Factory Team designed the HT1 arms to fit a broad range of 7 Series chassis. The full compatibility list includes:

    • RC10B7
    • RC10B7D
    • RC10T7 Team
    • RC10SC7 Team
    • RC10B7.1D
    • RC10B7.1

    That covers 2WD buggies, short-course trucks, and stadium trucks in the Team Associated 7 Series lineup. Two part numbers are available, each offering a different offset:

    • #92629 – RC10B7.1 FT Carbon Fiber Steering Block Arms, HT1 +1
    • #92630 – RC10B7.1 FT Carbon Fiber Steering Block Arms, HT1 +2

    The +1 and +2 indicate how many steps rearward the ballstud is moved. Both are sold separately, so you can pick the offset that best suits your track conditions.

    Pricing and Availability

    Factory Team has priced each pair at $9.99 (street price reported as $9). For a machined carbon fiber upgrade that can improve both stability and steering throw, it’s a straightforward addition to the parts box.

    The HT1 steering block arms are shipping now directly from Team Associated. The parts are listed as compatible with the RC10B7.1 race buggy kit. You can visit AssociatedElectrics.com/FactoryTeam to order or check with your local hobby shop.

    About the HT1 Design

    Factory Team states that the HT1 product brings the “comfort and stability that we have seen for years” with the earlier HT+1 plate. The HT1 line name specifically refers to moving the ballstud position rearward by one step. This change is intended to alter the steering geometry for improved feel and performance in racing conditions.

    Which Models Get the Upgrade

    The HT1 steering block arms are designed for multiple models in the 7 Series family. In addition to the RC10B7.1 buggy, the parts fit the RC10B7, RC10B7D, RC10T7 Team, RC10SC7 Team, and RC10B7.1D. That means racers with 2WD buggies, short-course trucks, and stadium trucks can all benefit from this new Factory Team option. The parts are sold in two offsets: the +1 version and the +2 version, allowing racers to fine-tune their steering response.

    Where to Get Them

    Factory Team parts are available through Team Associated’s website and through hobby dealers. The pricing per pair is $9.99 for either the +1 or +2 offset, with a reported street price of $9. The carbon fiber construction is intended to keep weight low while providing durability.

    The HT1 steering block arms are shipping now for the RC10B7.1 and other 7 Series models.

  • The Truth Is Out There in Brick Form: LEGO Ideas 21369 The X-Files Set Revealed

    The Truth Is Out There in Brick Form: LEGO Ideas 21369 The X-Files Set Revealed

    LEGO has officially confirmed what fans have long suspected: the truth is out there, and it comes in a box of 1,478 pieces. The LEGO Group, in collaboration with Disney Entertainment, today revealed LEGO Ideas 21369 The X-Files, a set based on the iconic ’90s sci-fi drama that defined a generation of paranormal investigators.

    The Set

    The model splits into two main display sections. On top sits a forest clearing scene with a hovering UFO mounted on a transparent stand, beaming a grey alien upward. Below is a detailed recreation of FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder’s office, packed with authentic nods like an “I Want to Believe” poster, an X-Files dossier, a sunflower seed reference, and pencils stuck into the ceiling tiles. The two halves can be stacked together or shown separately as distinct dioramas.

    Eight minifigures are included: Fox Mulder, Dana Scully, Walter Skinner, Mr. X, Alex Krycek, Carl Busch (the Cigarette-Smoking Man), The Flukeman, and a grey alien with a brand-new moulded head. The lineup notably skips Eugene Tooms, with the original source noting that is likely due to the actor’s controversial history — a decision LEGO apparently chose to avoid.

    Pricing and Availability

    21369 The X-Files will launch with LEGO Insiders early access on August 1, 2026, followed by a general release on August 4, 2026. It will be sold exclusively through LEGO.com and LEGO Stores. International pricing breaks down as:

    • US – $199.99
    • UK – £179.99
    • EU – €199.99
    • Australia – AU$329.99
    • Canada – CAD$269.99
    • Singapore – SGD$309.90

    A Fan Designer’s Vision

    The set originated from the LEGO Ideas ’90s Nostalgia Challenge won by Brisbane-based 3D artist and fan designer Brent Waller (known on the platform as wetwired). Waller is no stranger to seeing his concepts become official sets — he previously designed 21108 Ghostbusters ECTO-1 (2014) and 21328 Seinfeld (2021). He commented on the release:

    “I was obsessed with The X-Files from the moment I first saw it in the ’90s. I originally built Mulder’s office back in 2014 while rewatching the series, and it grew from there as a personal project. I wanted to combine nostalgia, detail and storytelling to capture the atmosphere of the show — from Mulder’s office to the forest and UFO encounter. I’m thrilled to see it become an official LEGO set and hope it resonates with both long-time fans and new audiences.”

    Gillian Anderson Returns

    To mark the announcement, Emmy Award-winning actor Gillian Anderson reprised her role as Dana Scully in a cinematic mini-film that gradually leads her to uncover the LEGO set piece by piece. Anderson said:

    “I didn’t expect to be stepping back into Scully’s heels to investigate a LEGO set… it has been so much fun revisiting that world all these years later. This set is a wonderful celebration of the X-Files, and the fans who have kept its mystery alive. The level of detail is brilliant – there are so many little nods that fans will absolutely recognise – and as a LEGO fan myself, I love that people can now quite literally build their own X-Files moments at home.”

    Limited-Time Gift With Purchase

    Customers who buy 21369 The X-Files between August 1 and August 10, 2026 will receive the exclusive 40896 Scully’s Lab gift-with-purchase (GWP) while stocks last. The GWP features an additional Scully minifigure in her lab coat, adding even more investigative flair to the collection.

    The set will be available for LEGO Insiders early access on August 1 and for all builders on August 4, 2026, exclusively at LEGO.com or your local LEGO Store. Trust no one — but definitely trust that this brick-built tribute to The X-Files is landing soon.

  • Kyosho Unleashes a Limited-Edition 1969 Mustang Boss 429 RC – And It’s a Racer’s Homologation Special

    Kyosho Unleashes a Limited-Edition 1969 Mustang Boss 429 RC – And It’s a Racer’s Homologation Special

    Kyosho is honoring one of Detroit’s most legendary muscle cars with a new limited-edition radio-controlled replica that doubles as a genuine competition homologation model. The Japanese hobby giant has released the FAZER Mk2 FZ02L Readyset 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 in Black Jade, a 1/10-scale, fully assembled RC car that blends an ultra-detailed body with a thoroughly modernized touring chassis.

    Born for the Track, Styled for the Showroom

    Only 859 units of this special model were produced. That number isn’t arbitrary—it’s the count required to obtain homologation for racing competition. The real 1969 Mustang Boss 429 was itself a homologation special, with its massive 429 cubic inch (7.0L) V8 pumping out 375 horsepower through a large hood scoop. Kyosho’s version captures that aggressive stance with a “BOSS 429” logo on the fenders, vintage-style touring car (VTC) tires, and low-profile wheels that match the classic car theme.

    The body itself is what Kyosho calls an “ULTRA SCALE BODY Plus,” featuring a clipless mounting system that eliminates protruding body clips. Injection-molded parts are used throughout, including chrome-plated bumpers and finely detailed taillights. Clear injection-molded light lenses with detailed lens cuts allow builders to add functional lighting using the separately sold 97054 LED Light Unit series—front four-lamp halogen LEDs and rear red LED units transform the car into a highly realistic, full-scale-looking model.

    A Chassis That Keeps Pace

    Under the shell sits the FAZER series platform, specifically the FZ02L full-time 4WD shaft-driven touring chassis. Kyosho has given it a full makeover with a simplified design that reduces part count and weight while increasing core strength through new materials, ribbing, and stiffeners. The symmetrical chassis optimizes front-rear balance through the suspension, and the low center of gravity is built into the nylon main chassis itself.

    Key drivetrain features include a slipper clutch, front and rear gear differentials, oil shocks, and full ball bearings throughout. The chassis uses a sealed differential and transmission for reliable performance on dusty parking lots. A KS202W waterproof steering servo is standard.

    Flexibility for Builders and Racers

    The design is highly adaptable. Brake disc wheel hubs come with two offset choices—0mm and +5mm—allowing compatibility with both 190mm and 200mm width body styles. Replacing a few parts (sold separately) lets the wheelbase adjust to 274mm, making the chassis usable with other 1/10 scale bodies. The motor mount supports nine different pinion gear settings from 29T to 37T, and a fixed gear mesh system eliminates tricky backlash adjustment—just mount the motor to the correct hole location.

    Maintenance is simplified too: most screws are flat-head 2.0mm hex fasteners, and the same size is used frequently. The front and rear hub carriers are interchangeable, optimizing spare parts usage.

    What’s in the Box and What You’ll Need

    The Readyset package arrives fully assembled. Buyers need to supply 4 x AA alkaline batteries for the Syncro KT-231P+ transmitter, plus a battery and charger for the chassis—a 7.2V Ni-MH battery is recommended. Tools are also required for assembly.

    The car measures 482mm long, 203mm wide (body width excluding mirrors), and 137mm tall, with a wheelbase of 274mm and front/rear tread of 167mm. Tires are φ64×27.7mm, gear ratio is 6.54:1, and weight is approximately 1,800 grams. The motor is a G14L.

    Pricing and Availability

    Priced at $342.05, the Kyosho Readyset Fazer Mk2 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 (part number #34437T1B) is listed as in stock at Kyosho America and available through retail channels including Hobbies Direct and Rakuten. With only 859 units in existence, this is a collector-grade RC muscle car that’s ready to run right out of the box.

  • MINI GT Drops a Dozen New 1:64 Casts, But One Legend Gets a Fresh Start

    MINI GT Drops a Dozen New 1:64 Casts, But One Legend Gets a Fresh Start

    MINI GT has dropped another batch of upcoming 1:64 die-cast models, and while the list is packed with fresh liveries and new body styles, only one car in the lineup is getting entirely new tooling.

    The Headliner: A Legend with New Bones

    The star of the show is the Ford Mustang Boss 302 1969 in Bright Yellow (left-hand drive, MGT01342-L). According to the announcement, this is the only model in the latest wave that uses completely new tooling. That means MINI GT is starting from scratch with the模具 for this iconic muscle car, rather than reissuing an existing casting. For collectors, that’s a big deal—new tooling often means improved accuracy, finer detail, and a fresh foundation for future variations.

    A Deep Dive Into the New Releases

    The full list covers a wide range of manufacturers and styles. Here’s a breakdown of what’s coming:

    Hyundai Performance Trio:

    • MGT01344-L – Hyundai Ioniq 6 N in Performance Blue Pearl
    • MGT01345-L – Hyundai Ioniq 5 N in Performance Blue Matt
    • MGT01346-L – Hyundai Veloster N in Performance Blue

    MINI GT has a strong history with Hyundai’s N division. Back at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, the brand unveiled the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N MINI GT RS-01T, a full-size concept car built in just 75 days. That project spawned a 1:64 scale model that dropped in summer 2025. These new N-branded releases continue that partnership, bringing the road-going versions of Hyundai’s performance EVs and the iconic Veloster N to the small scale.

    JDM and Nismo Power:

    • MGT01343-R – Nissan Skyline LB-WORKS “HAKOSUKA” in White/Green (RHD)
    • MGT01338-L – Nissan GT-R Nismo 2024 in Black (LHD)
    • MGT01338-R – Nissan GT-R Nismo 2024 in Black (RHD)

    The Hakosuka Skyline gets the Liberty Walk treatment, while the current-gen GT-R Nismo is offered in both left- and right-hand drive variants, a standard MINI GT practice that keeps collectors on both sides of the road happy.

    German Engineering:

    • MGT01341-L – Porsche 911 (992) GT3 Touring in Auratium Green (LHD)
    • MGT01341-R – Porsche 911 (992) GT3 Touring in Auratium Green (RHD)

    This marks a new color for the 992 GT3 Touring casting. Auratium Green is a striking, metallic shade that should stand out on the shelf.

    People Movers and Vans:

    • MGT01339-L – Toyota Alphard 40 KUHL in White (LHD)
    • MGT01339-R – Toyota Alphard 40 KUHL in White (RHD)
    • MGT01340-L – Volkswagen ID.Buzz in Porsche Renndienst livery

    The Alphard gets the KUHL aero treatment, and the ID.Buzz is dressed up in the retro Porsche Renndienst service van colors—a quirky choice that is sure to appeal to VW and Porsche fans alike.

    Timing and Availability

    No official release date has been announced yet, but industry sources expect these models to land in Q1 2027. As with all MINI GT releases, availability will vary by region, and popular models—especially the new-tool Mustang—are likely to move quickly once pre-orders open.