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  • GCD Debuts a Sleek Lexus LC500 in 1:64 Scale – Red and White Variants Due This Month

    GCD Debuts a Sleek Lexus LC500 in 1:64 Scale – Red and White Variants Due This Month

    GCD is giving diecast collectors another reason to clear shelf space before the summer ends. The company has announced a new 1:64 scale Lexus LC500 arriving in two exterior finishes before the end of July.

    Red or White – Choose Your Finish

    The model will be offered in Red and White, both in left-hand drive (LHD) configuration. Collectors can look for product numbers GE-003-10 (Red) and GE-003-12 (White) when the models drop. The exact sale date hasn’t been pinned down, but GCD has stated that stock will head to sale before the month concludes.

    Gaincorp Products and the GCD Line

    GCD is a brand operated by Gaincorp Products, a name that appears in Japanese retail listings alongside the partner name Enchery. The LC500 is the subject of this upcoming release.

    A Third Variant Spotted in Listings

    A Japanese retail listing on Yahoo! Shopping from the store Boost Gear Yahoo Store already shows a third variant — a “Lowride – Red” edition under product code GE-003-14. The listing describes the item as a new product made of diecast material and notes it is an imported item, so packaging may have minor damage. It also includes a shipping estimate: orders placed before 11:00 AM can expect delivery between July 17 and July 21. This indicates there may be additional versions beyond the two initially announced colors, though whether the “Lowride” version is part of the same launch batch or a separate drop is not clear from available information.

    The Bigger LC500 Miniature Picture

    The Lexus LC500 isn’t new to the 1:64 scale world. Era Car also released a limited edition of 1,200 pieces in Nori Green Metallic with a Black Top, available through Target. That model carries a choking hazard warning and is not recommended for children under three. Era Car’s release is from a different manufacturer and in a different color, while GCD’s upcoming offering provides red and white variants. Neither the GCD announcement nor the listings specify a production limit for the GCD models.

    Materials and Construction

    The Japanese retailer listing for the “Lowride – Red” variant (GE-003-14) confirms diecast as the primary material for that version. The primary announcement for the red and white models does not explicitly detail the material. Both announced models are left-hand drive.

    Timeline and Availability

    The timeline is tight: GCD has said the Red and White models are scheduled to go on sale before the end of July 2026. The product codes are clearly listed as GE-003-10 for the Red variant and GE-003-12 for the White variant. The “Lowride – Red” edition carries code GE-003-14 and appears to be available for pre-order through the Japanese Yahoo! Shopping platform with estimated shipping as early as July 17.

    Final Details

    Collectors can note the product codes GE-003-10 for Red and GE-003-12 for White, with sale expected before the end of July. The additional “Lowride” variant suggests GCD may be offering more than initially announced.

  • LCD Models Preps 1:64 Koenigsegg CC850 in White for Q4 2026

    LCD Models Preps 1:64 Koenigsegg CC850 in White for Q4 2026

    LCD Models has announced a new addition to its diecast lineup: a 1:64 scale replica of the Koenigsegg CC850 in white. The officially licensed model is slated to hit shelves in Q4 2026, giving collectors a few months to plan their preorders.

    A Miniature Masterpiece

    The model, identified as Product# LCD64052-White, is crafted from diecast metal and captures the hypercar’s clean, aggressive lines in a small package. White is a fitting finish for a car that Koenigsegg describes as “the ideal combination of classic design and cutting-edge technology.”

    What It Represents

    For context, the full-size CC850 carries serious weight in the automotive world. It’s a limited-production homage to the CC8S, the car that first put Koenigsegg on the map. The real CC850 is a dual celebration, marking 20 years of vehicle production and the 50th birthday of founder and CEO Christian von Koenigsegg.

    Only 70 examples of the actual car exist, making it an ultra-exclusive machine. The CC850 is also notable for achieving a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio, tipping the scales at 1,385 kg while producing 1,385 hp from its twin-turbo V8 powertrain. That puts it in very rare company alongside other megacars with the same feat.

    Engineering Marvel Under the Hood

    Koenigsegg’s proprietary Engage Shift System (ESS) is one of the CC850’s standout features. It offers drivers both a gated 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic in a single transmission. The driver can switch modes at any time, either engaging the clutch pedal for a raw, connected feel or letting the gearbox handle shifts automatically for a more relaxed cruise.

    Inside, the car features a second-generation Chronocluster, an evolution of the original design first seen in the Koenigsegg CCX. The multi-faced dial presents engine speed on the outer perimeter, vehicle speed via a precision central dial, and turbo boost info in the center—all laid out with a classic aesthetic.

    What Collectors Should Know

    While LCD Models hasn’t revealed pricing or preorder details yet, the Q4 2026 release window gives collectors time to watch for updates. Given the very limited production run of the real car (just 70 units), this 1:64 scale offering provides an accessible way to own a piece of that exclusivity.

    The white finish is a clean, classic choice for a car that balances retro styling with modern performance. The real CC850 was inspired by the original CC8S silhouette, and that same timeless shape translates well into miniature form.

    A Lineage of Innovation

    Christian von Koenigsegg himself noted the significance of the CC850, calling it “an homage to the single most meaningful car in Koenigsegg history.” The CC8S put the Swedish automaker on the map, and the CC850 revisits that legacy with a host of new technologies.

    For collectors who appreciate both automotive history and engineering ingenuity, LCD Models’ upcoming release offers a chance to celebrate that story in miniature. Keep an eye on LCD Models for official preorder announcements as the fourth quarter of 2026 approaches.

  • LEGO Architecture Reimagines London’s Tower Bridge with Set 21067

    LEGO Architecture Reimagines London’s Tower Bridge with Set 21067

    London’s Tower Bridge is back in brick form. The LEGO Architecture series has revealed Set 21067 Tower Bridge, a 3,745-piece model of the famous London landmark. It goes on sale August 1, 2026 with a recommended retail price of $349.99 USD / £269.99 GBP / €299.99 EUR (AU $499.99, CAD $489.99, SGD $459.90). Pre-orders are open now at LEGO.com and LEGO Stores.

    The finished model measures 89 cm (35 in.) long and 35 cm (13.5 in.) tall. Key features include a working drawbridge—the central bascules can be displayed raised or lowered. The River Thames is integrated into the base with sculpted waves. Microscale vehicles, including a double-decker bus and cars, sit on the roadway. A blue suspension walkway connects the towers, and a printed City of London Coat of Arms on a Nexo Shield element pays tribute to the original 2010 Tower Bridge set.

    The official product description calls the set “a challenging and rewarding activity for any travel-loving adult” and notes it can be displayed as “a home or office decor piece as a travel souvenir or bucket-list reminder.” It is also marketed as “an inspiring architectural gift idea for artsy adults and European history buffs.” The LEGO Builder app provides 3D instructions with zoom and rotate functions, allowing builders to track their progress.

    A Smaller, More Detailed Build

    The 2026 Architecture version employs a more modern parts palette and a smaller footprint than its predecessor. Its 89 cm length and 35 cm height are about 13 cm shorter and 10 cm lower than the 2010 Creator Expert model 10214 Tower Bridge, which measured 102 cm long and 45 cm tall. When it was released in 2010, 10214 Tower Bridge was one of the largest LEGO sets ever made. That earlier set contained over 4,000 pieces and was famous for its 556 tan cheese slope elements. The new set, by contrast, relies on printed tiles for the bridge’s numerous windows and incorporates rounded plates to capture the Victorian Gothic curves. The turrets on the main towers have been reduced from four studs in width to two, and the space between them has gone from 12 to 8 studs. Microscale vehicles have also shrunk, from two studs wide to one. Many surfaces that were studded in the original are now tiled over. The entire model is built at a smaller scale than the 2010 version. Early previews note that the supports beneath the moving bridge segments are more realistic than in the 2010 version, and describe the overall presentation as more refined. Despite having fewer pieces, the new model is described as no less detailed than the original.

    The original 10214 Tower Bridge retired in 2018. The new Architecture set offers a more compact alternative for collectors who missed the original or who have limited display space.

    A History of Revisits

    Before the Architecture series, large-scale landmark sets were categorized as Advanced Models. The original Tower Bridge, along with the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the Trevi Fountain, all debuted in that earlier category. The Architecture line has since revisited several of these iconic structures, applying updated building techniques and refined colour palettes. Beyond Architecture, the LEGO Group has also revisited other Advanced Models, such as the upscaled minifigure statue, Winter Holiday train, VW Combi, and Maersk freighters, showcasing modern building techniques. The Architecture series targets adult builders with its realistic details and display-focused designs. Each new version demonstrates how LEGO elements and building techniques have evolved over the past two decades.

    The real Tower Bridge was completed in 1894 and is celebrated for its Victorian Gothic design, combining stone and granite with a steel and iron framework.

    Release Information

    Set 21067 Tower Bridge is rated for builders 18+ and will be available worldwide from LEGO.com and LEGO Stores on August 1, 2026. Pre-orders are currently open.

  • Davis & Giovanni Unleashes Limited Lamborghini Revuelto Kit and Ultra-Rare F40 Wheels

    Davis & Giovanni Unleashes Limited Lamborghini Revuelto Kit and Ultra-Rare F40 Wheels

    Davis & Giovanni is back with a pair of limited-edition aftermarket pieces that will appeal to both supercar fans and die-cast collectors. The specialist has announced plans for a Duke Dynamics-styled body kit for the Lamborghini Revuelto, available in seven distinct color options, alongside a highly restricted run of Ferrari F40 Competizione Hyperforce Rims.

    The Duke Dynamics Lamborghini Revuelto Body Kit

    The Revuelto kit will be offered in the following finishes: Verde Viper, White, Blu Hal, Grigio Telesto, Verde Scandal, Viola Pasifae, and Verde Ermes. That’s a lineup covering everything from classic Lamborghini greens and blues to more exotic shades like Viola Pasifae. The kit is an aftermarket aero upgrade, though specific components such as the front splitter, side skirts, or rear diffuser have not been detailed by the company. Product codes are still TBD, so collectors should stay tuned for finalized ordering information.

    Ferrari F40 Competizione Hyperforce Rims

    The wheels are an even more exclusive offering. The Ferrari F40 Competizione Hyperforce Rims are limited to just ten units each in two finishes: Dark Metallic Blue and Pearlescent Link. That means a total of only 20 sets across both colorways. For scale model builders who want to add a unique touch to their F40 builds, this is a rare opportunity. The limited run ensures they will be highly sought after by collectors.

    Context: The Revuelto Aftermarket

    The Lamborghini Revuelto, the Italian marque’s first plug-in hybrid V12 supercar, has already attracted attention from aftermarket specialists. Companies like ZACOE offer carbon fiber “soft kit” programs that enhance the car’s factory proportions without requiring structural modifications. ZACOE’s approach uses dry carbon fiber and advanced 3D scanning for OEM-level fitment. The ZACOE soft kit is described as a complete replacement and add-on solution that preserves the original body architecture while refining aerodynamic efficiency, visual aggression, and lightweight performance. While Davis & Giovanni’s Duke Dynamics kit is a different product altogether, it shows that the Revuelto is becoming a popular platform for customization among both full-size car owners and scale model enthusiasts. The availability of multiple color options from D&G suggests that the kit is aimed at collectors who want to match their scale model to a specific real-world specification.

    Availability and Next Steps

    As of now, Davis & Giovanni has not released product codes or pricing for either the body kit or the wheels. The company has only stated that the product codes are TBD. Given the limited nature of the run — especially the F40 rims with only 10 per finish — demand is expected to be high. Collectors should monitor Davis & Giovanni’s official channels for updates on when these items will be available for order.

    This release adds to D&G’s growing portfolio of exclusive aftermarket accessories for scale models. The combination of a bold body kit for the flagship Lamborghini and extremely rare wheels for the iconic Ferrari F40 Competizione makes for a compelling pair of offerings. For now, the only confirmed details are the colors, the limited quantities, and the fact that product codes are not yet finalized.

  • RC Discharger’s Modular Pit Shelf Clears Table Space Fast

    RC Discharger’s Modular Pit Shelf Clears Table Space Fast

    If you’ve ever tried to wrench on your RC car at a crowded track table, you know the problem: chargers, tools, spare parts, and spilled fluids leave almost no room for your actual vehicle. RC Discharger has a straightforward solution — a modular car shelf that clamps directly to their High‑Output LED Pit Light, lifting your car off the work surface and giving you back valuable table space.

    The shelf acts as a floating deck, creating a dedicated parking spot for your 1/10 or 1/12 scale car while you prep shocks, cool a motor, or stage a backup vehicle. The company says the accessory is designed to save time and reduce risk during quick turnarounds at the track.

    Lightweight and Portable

    Weighing just 3.8 ounces (107 grams), the platform adds almost no weight to your track bag. That featherweight build means you can throw it in with the rest of your gear without worrying about extra bulk. The whole setup clamps quickly to the vertical tube of the RC Discharger High‑Output LED Pit Light, and the company notes that you can mount only one shelf per light.

    Designed for 1/10 and 1/12 Scale

    The shelf is optimised for 1/12 and 1/10 scale off‑road and on‑road vehicles — the most common classes found in competitive pit areas. By lifting the car above the table, the deck keeps it away from loose hardware, spilled fluids, and the general chaos of a working pit. The floating deck layout also helps you organise parts when you need to swap setups between heats.

    The company emphasises that the raised platform keeps your car away from fluids and loose hardware, while the accessory focuses on stability and fast setup. RC Discharger also notes the complete system includes both the platform deck and the Shelf Holder clamp for mounting.

    How It Works

    Setting up is straightforward: clamp the included Shelf Holder to your RC Discharger High‑Output LED Pit Light, then attach the platform deck. The light stand provides both a stable mount and illumination, giving you a raised parking station directly above your work zone. Once the shelf is in place, you can use the table surface for chargers, tools, and other gear while your car sits safely above the mess.

    According to the manufacturer, the shelf’s performance depends on a solid mount and smart loading, and they recommend pairing it with the right tube and base for your stand. The accessory is not a standalone product — it requires the company’s High‑Output LED Pit Light to function. The shelf is designed to pair specifically with that light stand’s tube and base, so you cannot use it with other pit lights or tripods.

    What’s in the Box

    • 1x Car Shelf – the platform deck that holds your vehicle.
    • 1x Shelf Holder clamp – the mounting bracket that attaches to the pit light.

    The package includes everything needed to get the shelf up and running, provided you already own the compatible pit light.

    Track-Day Benefits

    RC Discharger markets the shelf as a way to maximise pit space quickly. The floating deck design lets you stage a backup car, cool a motor, or prep shocks while your main work zone stays open. The company also highlights that the shelf adds very little weight to your track bag, so you gain capability without extra bulk.

    Availability

    The RC Modular Car Shelf & Holder is available now directly from RC Discharger. With a weight of just over 100 grams and a design focused on fast setup and secure parking, it’s a practical addition for any racer looking to maximise limited pit space. Keep in mind that the shelf is limited to one per light, so choose your primary work station accordingly. The product page on RC Discharger’s official website provides full ordering details.

  • Norev Drops Three New Online-Exclusive Porsches, Each Limited to 300 Units

    Norev Drops Three New Online-Exclusive Porsches, Each Limited to 300 Units

    Norev has just added three fresh models to its lineup of web-exclusive die-casts, and collectors on the hunt for rare colorways will want to pay attention. The French manufacturer’s latest trio features two 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 variants and a 2024 Porsche Taycan Turbo S, all produced in strictly limited numbers.

    The Trio of Exclusives

    Each model is crafted in 1:18 scale from metal and includes opening parts, a hallmark of Norev’s premium line. The most eye-catching of the bunch is the 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 in Black (product number 187001). For those who prefer a more understated look, the 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 with Touring Package in Bahama Yellow (product number 187003) offers a vibrant pop of color without the fixed rear wing. Rounding out the set is the 2024 Porsche Taycan Turbo S in Neo Oak Green (product number 187655), a striking shade that suits the electric sedan’s sleek lines.

    Production for each of these models is capped at 300 units or fewer, making them a genuine collector’s item for Porsche fans and Norev enthusiasts alike.

    Limited Production, Serious Detail

    Norev’s online-exclusive program has become a reliable source for unusual factory colors and special editions that aren’t always available through standard retail channels. The metal construction and opening doors, hoods, and trunks add a level of realism that hobbyists expect from the brand. While the core models are well-known, the limited run of 300 pieces per variant means that once they’re gone, they’re gone. Collectors who want to secure a specific color should act quickly, as Norev’s e-shop is the only place to buy these.

    Real-World Inspiration

    The real 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 with Touring Package are the latest generation of Porsche’s track-focused sports car. According to Porsche’s official newsroom, the 2025 model features a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine producing 502 hp, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds when equipped with the PDK transmission. The engine is paired with a seven-speed PDK or six-speed manual, both with an eight percent shorter final drive ratio than the predecessor. The car also benefits from a redesigned front diffuser, Matrix Design LED headlights, and a lightweight lithium-ion battery that saves roughly 9.9 lbs. Over the previous model, the optional Weissach Package adds carbon-fiber components and magnesium wheels, while the Lightweight Package for the Touring version includes a carbon-fiber roof and shortened gear lever. The Touring Package, available from launch, deletes the fixed wing in favor of an active rear spoiler and now offers rear seats for the first time. The MSRP for the real 911 GT3 is $222,500 (plus $1,995 delivery).

    Norev’s miniature versions capture these details, including the distinct front and rear styling of the 992.2 generation. The Taycan Turbo S, meanwhile, represents the electric flagship, and the Neo Oak Green finish is a sophisticated choice that mirrors Porsche’s modern palette.

    More Norev Exclusives to Watch

    These three new releases join a growing roster of Norev online exclusives. For example, a 1:18 scale 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 in Chalk (limited to 500 pieces) is available as a preorder from select retailers, with expected availability in mid-July. Additionally, a 1:12 scale 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 in British Racing Green (preorder, priced at $274.95, expected to ship by late 2026) shows the brand’s expansion into larger scales. Both are separate from the new three-model set but demonstrate Norev’s commitment to Porsche collectors.

    But for now, the spotlight is on the three new 1:18-scale models. They are available now on Norev’s official e-shop, with product numbers 187001, 187003, and 187655. The dedicated ‘Web Exclusives’ section on the Norev website lists these alongside other limited-edition releases. Each is a limited-run collectible that brings a piece of Porsche’s latest lineup into the hands of scale model enthusiasts.

  • Injora Bolsters the Axial SCX30 with a New Stainless Steel Link Set

    Injora Bolsters the Axial SCX30 with a New Stainless Steel Link Set

    The aftermarket parts scene for the Axial SCX30 micro crawler just got a fresh option. Injora has released a Stainless Steel High Clearance Link Set designed specifically for the popular 1/30-scale rig, giving builders a straightforward upgrade path for improved durability and crawling performance.

    What’s in the Set

    The kit includes both chassis links and steering links, all built around stainless steel rods. The rod ends are made from plastic, and the pivot balls are aluminum. According to Injora’s product specs, the design aims to deliver smoother articulation with less binding compared to stock components.

    A key detail is the bent link geometry, which provides higher clearance and allows the links to slide more easily over rocks during a crawl. The simple rod-end structure also eliminates the need for O-rings, which Injora says makes installation and maintenance easier. For fine-tuning, the kit comes with 0.5mm spacers that let you adjust link length and front axle angle.

    Features and Compatibility

    Injora notes that the steering links are compatible with the SCX30’s stock axles but not compatible with Injora’s own +3mm Planet Axles. If you are installing the chassis links on Injora Planet Axles, the company advises using the ball studs labeled “Planet Axle.”

    The product page highlights several additional features: the nylon rod ends are designed to offer smoother articulation with less binding, while the simple rod end structure eliminates the hassle of O-rings for easier installation and maintenance. The adjustable rod ends with included 0.5mm spacers allow fine-tuning of link length and front axle angle, giving builders more control over their setup.

    Specs at a Glance

    The chassis links carry part number SCX30–28, weigh 11g, and are made of stainless steel with plastic rod ends. The steering links, part number SCX30–29, weigh just 1.7g and use the same materials.

    Pricing and Availability

    The complete set is priced at $19.99 and is available directly from injora.com.

    Broader Upgrade Ecosystem

    Injora’s dedicated upgrade collection page for the SCX30 lists a wide range of other aftermarket parts, including brass weight components, tires, wheels, servo upgrades, motor upgrades, and shocks. According to the manufacturer’s FAQ on that page, the most popular first upgrades for the SCX30 are tires and wheels (for improved traction, stability, and climbing performance), brass parts (to lower the center of gravity and add front-end weight), servo upgrades (for stronger and more precise steering), motor upgrades (for better low-speed control and smoothness), and shocks (for improved suspension performance and sidehill stability).

    The SCX30 itself, produced by Axial, is a scale micro crawler that comes in several body styles, including a Bronco, a Jeep Wrangler JLU, and a K10 pickup. It has a dedicated following among RC enthusiasts who enjoy both trail running and technical rock crawling. This new link set from Injora fits directly into that ecosystem, offering a durable, corrosion-resistant upgrade that can help keep the chassis stable and the steering responsive on the trail. The stainless steel links are designed for durability and corrosion resistance, and the bent link design provides higher clearance and smoother sliding over rocks while crawling.

    For those looking to build out their SCX30 further, Injora’s FAQ also notes that adding brass parts can improve climbing and stability, and that a balanced setup works best—too much brass can reduce efficiency and increase drivetrain wear. The link set provides a solid foundation for those upgrades, offering a dependable chassis connection that can handle the demands of technical crawling.

  • Hot Wheels x 7-Eleven Returns: Grab the Limited-Edition 2017 Nissan GT-R While It Lasts

    Hot Wheels x 7-Eleven Returns: Grab the Limited-Edition 2017 Nissan GT-R While It Lasts

    It’s back. For the second consecutive year, 7-Eleven and Mattel have teamed up to drop an exclusive Hot Wheels die-cast collectible. This year’s model puts the spotlight on the 2017 Nissan GT-R (R35), a high-performance legend beloved by car enthusiasts.

    The limited-edition car was announced on July 16, 2026, and is rolling out to participating stores nationwide. The model features a sleek white wrap with the retailer’s iconic logo on the hood and sides — exactly the kind of collector-friendly livery that makes die-cast fans stop and look.

    Where to Find It

    The die-cast supercar is available at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes locations across the U.S., as well as online at 7Collection.com, the retailer’s official merchandise shop. Supplies are limited and available while they last — no restock has been announced.

    7-Eleven, based in Irving, Texas, operates, franchises, and licenses more than 13,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada, giving this exclusive a massive physical footprint. Its loyalty programs, 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards, have more than 100 million members combined. Customers can also place orders via the 7NOW delivery app, which offers real-time tracking and delivery typically in about 30 minutes, depending on market conditions, driver availability, weather, and traffic.

    The Collectible

    The die-cast replicates the high-performance 2017 Nissan GT-R (R35) with a white wrap and 7-Eleven’s logo on the hood and sides — a livery that signals a limited-edition exclusive. This is the second year that 7-Eleven and Hot Wheels have produced an exclusive together, following a previous collaboration in 2025. According to the announcement, the collaboration “brings together two beloved pop culture brands for another high-octane release inspired by speed and nostalgia.” The partnership highlights the value of retail exclusives that create urgency, bringing Hot Wheels to shoppers during routine errands.

    Beyond the Car

    7-Eleven and Hot Wheels are also launching a limited-run apparel collection featuring the 7-Eleven x Hot Wheels branding, set to arrive soon on 7Collection.com. The companies have also teased an “expanded limited-edition merch drop” coming to the same online shop, though specific items have not been revealed. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for additional releases.

    About the Partners

    Mattel, founded in 1945, is a leading global play and entertainment company. Its portfolio includes core doll brands like Barbie and American Girl, vehicle lines such as Hot Wheels and Matchbox, preschool favorites like Fisher-Price and Thomas & Friends, and game and action brands including UNO, Masters of the Universe, Monster High, and Polly Pocket, as well as other popular properties licensed from global entertainment companies. Mattel’s products are sold through the world’s leading retail and e-commerce partners.

    7-Eleven, Inc. is the premier name in U.S. convenience retailing. Beyond the 7-Eleven chain, the company operates Speedway and Stripes convenience stores, as well as Laredo Taco Company and Raise the Roost Chicken and Biscuits restaurant concepts. Known for iconic brands like Slurpee, Big Bite, and Big Gulp, 7-Eleven also offers fresh food, packaged products, and its 7-Select private brand.

    The collaboration was announced via a press release distributed by PRNewswire on July 16, 2026.

    Final Word

    The exclusive Hot Wheels die-cast 2017 Nissan GT-R is now available at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores and online at 7Collection.com while supplies last. Fans can also look forward to a limited-edition apparel line and an expanded merch drop coming soon to the same website.

  • Spektrum S160 Smart Charger: 60W USB-C Power for Compact RC Packs

    Spektrum S160 Smart Charger: 60W USB-C Power for Compact RC Packs

    Spektrum has expanded its Smart Charger family with a compact new model designed for RC enthusiasts running smaller battery packs. The Spektrum S160 Smart Charger delivers up to 60W of charging power and is purpose-built for 2-3S G2 LiPo batteries with IC3 or IC5 connectors. Announced on July 16, 2026, the charger is now available through Spektrum’s website and dealer network.

    Auto Charge Eliminates Programming

    The S160 leverages Spektrum’s Smart technology to remove guesswork from charging. When a compatible Smart battery is connected, the charger automatically detects the battery’s chemistry, cell count, and charge parameters and begins charging immediately. No manual programming is required. This works with 2-3S G2 LiPo and 6-7 cell NiMH Smart batteries, all through a single IC3 or IC5 connection. The system reads the battery’s built-in data chip and sets the correct charge program on its own.

    How Smart Charging Works

    Spektrum’s Smart system relies on a chip inside compatible batteries that stores key parameters. When paired with a Smart charger, the charger reads that data and configures the charge cycle automatically. As Spektrum states on its website, “With Smart chargers, you can automatically charge correctly without any need for programming. Everything is recognized and makes charging safe and easy.” The S160 brings this capability to users of 2-3S packs at an accessible price.

    USB-C Power for Flexibility

    Power is supplied via a 65W-capable USB-C cable included in the box. This allows the S160 to draw power from any standard USB-C source—a power bank, a car adapter, or a wall charger. Note that a separate USB-C power adapter is required; the charger does not include one. The compact form factor makes it easy to toss into a field bag or pit box.

    Two Connector Options, Same Price

    The S160 is available in two versions depending on the output connector. The SPMXC3163 model features an IC3 port, while the SPMXC3165 comes with an IC5 port. Both are priced at $32.99. The charger also supports 6-7 cell NiMH Smart batteries, broadening its usefulness beyond LiPo-only users. The IC3 and IC5 connectors are popular in Spektrum’s ecosystem and are backward compatible with the older EC3 and EC5 standards, allowing use with a wider range of batteries.

    Key Features at a Glance

    • Designed for 2-3S G2 LiPo batteries with IC3 or IC5 connectors
    • Also compatible with 6-7 cell NiMH Smart batteries
    • Auto-detects battery parameters and begins charging immediately
    • Includes a 65W-capable USB-C cable
    • Requires a separate USB-C power adapter
    • Compact and intuitive design for portability

    What’s in the Box

    The package includes the S160 1x60W USB-C Smart Charger and the USB-C cable. You will need to supply your own USB-C power adapter (or power bank) and, of course, your batteries. The charger is designed to be used with Spektrum Smart G2 batteries to take full advantage of the automatic features.

    Spektrum’s Description

    Spektrum describes the S160 as offering “Simple, portable, and dependable charging at a value price point.” The company emphasizes that the charger is intuitive and compact, fitting easily into the routines of RC enthusiasts who want to charge quickly without complexity.

    Part of a Larger Lineup

    The S160 joins other Smart Chargers such as the S155 1x55W (charges up to 4S), the S1200 1x200W, and the S2100 2x100W. All Smart Chargers share the ability to auto-detect battery parameters and simplify the charging process. The S160 is specifically aimed at users of 2-3S packs, making it a targeted option for those with smaller RC cars, aircraft, or drones.

    Availability

    The Spektrum S160 Smart Charger is available now. For more information, visit SpektrumRC.com. With its straightforward design and USB-C convenience, the S160 provides a hassle-free way to keep smaller packs ready for action.

  • The Legend Returns: MIP’s 4-10 Conversion Kit Resurrection Ships July 23

    The Legend Returns: MIP’s 4-10 Conversion Kit Resurrection Ships July 23

    For RC10 fans who thought the golden age of 4WD conversions was a locked-door memory, MIP just turned the key. The company’s 4-10 Legend Kit—a modern take on the groundbreaking 1980s 4-wheel-drive conversion for Team Associated RC10 cars with a Stealth transmission—will start shipping on July 23, 2026, priced at $375.00. Part number #25410 is now available for order at MIPOnline.com.

    MIP (Moore’s Ideal Products) calls this a resurrection, not a reissue. And given the story behind it, that language fits.

    From a One-Room Shop to RC Lore

    In 1978, Eustace Moore opened a tiny shop in Los Angeles. That one room grew into MIP, a brand that helped define the 1/10 scale RC racing scene. By the late 1980s, the company’s MIP 4-10 had become the gold standard for converting a two-wheel-drive RC10 into a 4WD machine. It wasn’t just a part; it was a symbol of ambition and precision engineering at a time when racers were hungry for any edge.

    Now, decades later, MIP has gone back to the drawing board—spending more than a year in research, development, and conversation with the vintage RC community. The result is a kit that keeps the original design’s DNA but is built with 21st-century methods and materials.

    What’s New Under the Hood

    MIP says every detail of the 4-10 Legend has been revisited and refined. The kit features:

    • All-new tooling, programming, and manufacturing processes
    • Reinforced high-stress areas for improved durability
    • Tighter machining tolerances and better overall fit
    • Modern materials and updated heat treating

    The engineering is completely reworked to take advantage of current manufacturing capabilities, yet the look and spirit remain true to the original. MIP describes the 2026 Edition as “what happens when history meets innovation.”

    Compatibility and Availability

    The kit is designed for Team Associated RC10 Team Cars equipped with a Stealth transmission. That makes it a direct drop-in for a beloved vintage platform that still has a passionate following in both racing and collecting circles. MIP emphasizes that the 4-10 Legend is retro-compatible, so builders can expect it to integrate with period-correct chassis and components.

    Pricing is set at $375.00, and the first shipments are scheduled to leave the warehouse on July 23, 2026. MIP is calling this a limited-time offering, so anyone hoping to grab a piece of RC history is advised to order sooner rather than later through the company’s website.

    A Legacy Rebuilt

    For those who remember the original 4-10, this kit is a chance to relive an era when RC racing was still finding its footing. For newer enthusiasts, it’s an opportunity to experience firsthand the design that helped turn the RC10 into a 4WD competitor. Whether you’re a collector, a restoration builder, or someone who just appreciates clever engineering, the 4-10 Legend promises to deliver the same ambition that Eustace Moore had back in that one-room LA shop. Orders are open now, with shipping locked in for July 23.