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  • H-Tech Drops Machined Aluminum Rear Bumper for Vanquish VS4-10 Origin Crawler

    H-Tech Drops Machined Aluminum Rear Bumper for Vanquish VS4-10 Origin Crawler

    The Vanquish VS4-10 Origin is already a standout in the 1/10-scale crawling world, but H-Tech Custom Products just gave owners a fresh reason to upgrade the rear end. The company has released a Machined Aluminum Rear Bumper designed specifically for this popular RC crawler kit, and it brings both added durability and a sharper look.

    Tube-Style Design, Solid Construction

    H-Tech’s new bumper features a tube-style-inspired design, but it’s not made from bent tubing — it’s solid machined aluminum. That means you get the visual appeal of a tubular bumper with the strength and weight of a one-piece CNC part. According to the product description, the bumper offers improved durability compared to the VS4-10 Origin’s stock bumper, while giving the rig a more aggressive, finished appearance.

    The bumper is available in two color options: matte silver and matte black. That lets builders match the bumper to their existing color scheme or go for a contrasting accent.

    Price and Availability

    H-Tech is selling the Machined Aluminum Rear Bumper for $62.00. It’s listed on the company’s website at h-techproduct.com, where buyers can choose their preferred finish and place an order. The product page also details H-Tech’s return policy — returns are accepted for defective or incorrect items within three days of receipt, with photos and order information required.

    A Matching Front Bumper Is Also Available

    While the new rear bumper is the headline item, H-Tech also offers a CNC Aluminum Front Bumper for the same VS4-10 Origin model (part numbers VPS09026A / VPS09026B). The front bumper shares the same machined aluminum construction and comes in the same matte silver and matte black finishes. Owners looking to completely overhaul their crawler’s bumpers can now outfit both ends with matching H-Tech hardware.

    Why This Matters for VS4-10 Origin Owners

    The VS4-10 Origin is a detailed scale crawler kit from Vanquish Products, and many builders enjoy customizing it with aftermarket parts. Upgrading the rear bumper is a relatively simple swap that can improve the truck’s durability on the trail and give it a more purposeful look. The machined aluminum construction should hold up better than the stock plastic bumper in rocky terrain, and the tube-style aesthetic fits the scale appearance many crawler enthusiasts aim for.

    Where to Get Yours

    If you’re ready to add the H-Tech Machined Aluminum Rear Bumper to your VS4-10 Origin, head over to h-techproduct.com. The bumper is priced at $62.00, and both matte silver and matte black options are in stock. H-Tech’s site also lists the matching front bumper for those who want a complete set.

    Final Take

    H-Tech Custom Products continues to expand its lineup of CNC-machined accessories for popular RC platforms. This rear bumper is a straightforward, affordable upgrade that combines form and function — exactly what scale crawler builders look for. Whether you’re a competitive trail runner or a show-and-shine enthusiast, it’s worth a look.

    Priced at $62.00 and available now at h-techproduct.com.

  • Bburago Locked In for Two 1:18 Ferrari 499P Le Mans Models This Year

    Bburago Locked In for Two 1:18 Ferrari 499P Le Mans Models This Year

    Die-cast collectors and Ferrari endurance racing fans have a fresh set of shelf-mates to look forward to before the year is out. Bburago is bringing two new 1:18 scale replicas of the Ferrari 499P to market, modeling the cars that ran the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans in the top Hypercar class.

    The releases are planned for Q4 2026 and will cover two distinct entries from the Ferrari AF Corse team: the #50 car and the #51 car. Both models wear the classic red, yellow, and black livery and are positioned as budget-friendly options for enthusiasts who want a detailed die-cast without a premium price tag.

    The Cars and Their Drivers

    The real-world driver lineups were locked in by Ferrari back in December 2025, showing the team’s commitment to stability after a dominant 2025 season. The #50 499P will be driven by Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina, and Nicklas Nielsen. The #51 car is crewed by Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado, and Antonio Giovinazzi. All six drivers have been with the program since the 499P’s competitive debut in 2023.

    The two official crews helped secure Ferrari’s overall World Manufacturers’ Championship in 2025, a title the brand hadn’t won since 1972. Pier Guidi, Calado, and Giovinazzi also took the World Drivers’ Championship that same year.

    What Bburago Is Offering

    Bburago’s approach with these models leans into value. The sealed-body die-casts are hand-painted and polished, with visible interior detailing that includes hand-assembled components. The manufacturer uses photo-etched parts, die-cutting, tampo printing, and waterslide decals to achieve what it describes as authentic replication of the race cars.

    The product codes confirm the two variants:

    • 18-16309 – Ferrari 499P 3.0L Turbo V6 Team Ferrari AF Corse #50, 24h Le Mans 2026
    • 18-16310 – Ferrari 499P 3.0L Turbo V6 Team Ferrari AF Corse #51, 24h Le Mans 2026

    The Real-World Hypercar

    The real Ferrari 499P is no ordinary prototype. It uses a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a front-axle hybrid system that provides four-wheel drive at higher speeds. That setup, combined with a lightweight carbon-fiber chassis, advanced aerodynamics, and a highly efficient energy recovery system, made the 499P one of the most technologically advanced entries in modern endurance racing.

    The 2026 season kicked off in Lusail, Qatar on March 28, with Yifei Ye also returning to drive the privateer AF Corse team’s #83 499P in Giallo Modena livery for the third year running.

    What to Expect for the Models

    Bburago’s 1:18 scale replicas are not going to command the same premium as high-end resin models, but they promise respectable detail for the price point. That makes them a solid pick for collectors who want the 2026 Le Mans Hypercar entries on their shelf without hunting for rarer, more expensive alternatives.

    Both models are set to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026.

  • Injora Drops Brass C-Hubs for the Axial SCX10 III CJ7 – 57g of Bolt-On Upgrade for $19.99

    Injora Drops Brass C-Hubs for the Axial SCX10 III CJ7 – 57g of Bolt-On Upgrade for $19.99

    Injora has added another brass upgrade to its lineup, this time targeting the Axial SCX10 III Jeep CJ7. The new Brass C-Hubs are designed to bolt directly onto the truck’s AR45 straight front axles, giving builders a simple way to add weight and a bit of custom style.

    What’s in the Box and How It Works

    The set includes two machined-brass c-hubs – one for the left, one for the right. They come with a black hard coating and exposed brass accents at the chamfered edges, which Injora says helps prevent corrosion while adding a bright touch to the chassis. The total weight for the pair is 57 grams (0.126 lb), making it a significant unsprung-mass addition for a 1/10-scale rig.

    According to the official product page, the extra weight from these c-hubs is intended to improve anti-rollover stability and enhance climbing capabilities – a common goal for crawler enthusiasts who want to lower the center of gravity and keep tires planted on technical terrain. The parts are high-precision CNC machined, so the fitment should be tight and consistent.

    Compatibility and Fitment

    These c-hubs are specifically listed for the 1/10 Axial SCX10 III Jeep CJ-7 and any SCX10 III equipped with AR45 straight front axles. That means they could also work on other SCX10 III variants using the same axle housing, making them a versatile upgrade for owners of that platform.

    Pricing, Availability, and Broader Ecosystem

    The set is priced at $19.99 and is available now directly from Injora.com. For anyone looking to outfit their CJ7 with additional brass bits, Injora’s CJ7 upgrade collection also includes brass steering knuckles, diff covers, wheel hex extenders, and more – so the C-hubs fit into a broader ecosystem of weight-forward parts.

    Injora’s CJ7 upgrade collection page lists several other parts for the same truck, including an IR60-10 hard body with interior and bed cage, 90mm and 100mm DRX dual-rate spring oil shocks, steel heavy-duty drive shafts, 195mm LED whip lights, 4LED rock light kits, 38g black brass diff covers, overdrive and underdrive steel helical gears, black brass wheel hex hub extenders, and a selection of 1.9-inch tires such as the King Trekker S5 A/T, XHX Pin S5, Cling On S5, Kraken Claw S5 M/T, Swamp Claw S5 M/T, and MAVERIX S5 R/T. The collection also includes 1.9-inch 10-spoke stamped steel wheels, aluminum beadlock wheels, and super heavy brass -10mm offset wheels.

    Important Notices from the Manufacturer

    Injora reminds buyers that the product is not a toy and is not intended for children under 14 years old. It also carries a California Prop 65 warning, which is standard for products containing brass. The package includes two brass front axle c-hubs.

    An Additional Detail on the Product Page

    The official Injora product page for the brass c-hubs describes them as “Black Coating Brass C-Hub for 1/10 RC Crawler SCX10 III AR45 Straight Axle.” The page confirms they are compatible with the 1/10 SCX10 III Jeep CJ-7 and SCX10 III AR45 straight front axles. It also states that returns and refunds may vary by region and directs buyers to Injora’s Return & Refund Policy for details.

    The Broader Injora SCX10 III Ecosystem

    Beyond just the CJ7-specific collection, Injora maintains a broader SCX10 III upgrade parts page that lists the brass c-hubs alongside other upgrades for the SCX10 III platform. That page includes the same c-hubs, brass steering knuckles, stainless steel links, portal steering knuckle caps, metal front and rear bumpers, and more. This suggests the c-hubs are part of a comprehensive parts ecosystem for the SCX10 III platform, not just a single-model release.

  • J&T Bearing Drops New B and D Height Aluminum Shock Towers for Tekno 1/8 Buggies

    J&T Bearing Drops New B and D Height Aluminum Shock Towers for Tekno 1/8 Buggies

    J&T Bearing Company has released a new line of aftermarket aluminum shock towers for the Tekno NB/EB48 2.2 1/8-scale buggy platform. These parts are machined from 7075-T6 aluminum and are available in B and D height geometries, with each configuration engineered for specific track conditions.

    Two Configurations for Different Surfaces

    The company is offering four distinct SKUs at a price point of $36.99 per component. The split-tower version is intended for lower-grip or bumpy tracks, while the connected-tower variant is built for high-grip, smooth surfaces. The towers include added webbing in key areas for extra strength and feature a natural machined finish with chamfered edges for a custom aftermarket look.

    “J&T is proud to introduce our version of the Tekno B/D Height geometry shock towers. These towers were designed based off of the current geometry, but with some areas of added webbing for slightly more strength and more of a custom aftermarket look.” — J&T Bearing Company

    Design and Performance Features

    The split-tower design is meant to improve flex, helping to absorb impacts and protect the chassis, according to retail product descriptions. The camber link positions have been moved closer over the lower hinge pin compared to the stock setup, which is said to enhance handling, cornering, and traction. The towers are described as a direct-fit replacement for Tekno models, requiring no modifications for installation. They are also lighter than the stock towers.

    Retail listings from AMain Hobbies describe the rear aluminum split shock tower as being CNC-machined from 7075-T6 aluminum for strength and precision. The listing notes that the tower’s split design improves flex to absorb impacts, protect the chassis, and maintain suspension geometry over rough terrain. It also states that the optimized camber link positions enhance handling, cornering, and traction, and that the lightweight, heavy-duty construction is designed for the demands of 1/8-scale racing.

    Another listing from ProMotionRC.com for the front short shock tower notes that it is designed for racers seeking consistency, balance, and corner speed. The description labels it the “current competition spec” and says it offers improved handling and control in all conditions, with a particular advantage on high-grip tracks.

    Available SKUs

    The four new parts are:

    • JT12886 — J&T Aluminum Shock Tower Tekno NB/EB48 2.2 (B Height) Front (split) — $36.99
    • JT12887 — J&T Aluminum Shock Tower Tekno NB/EB48 2.2 (D Height) Rear (split) — $36.99
    • JT12888 — J&T Aluminum High Grip Shock Tower Tekno NB/EB48 2.2 (B Height) Front — $36.99
    • JT12889 — J&T Aluminum High Grip Shock Tower Tekno NB/EB48 2.2 (D Height) Rear — $36.99

    Context from Tekno RC

    In April 2026, Tekno RC itself announced a shorter shock and shock tower package for its EB/NB48 2.x platform. That official package lowered the vehicle’s center of gravity by 8mm and reduced chassis roll to improve cornering precision. The package was used by driver Seth VanDalen to win the 1/8 Pro Nitro Buggy title at the 2026 Dirt Nitro Challenge. Tekno RC’s announcement recommended the shorter setup for high-bite track conditions and smooth, high-traction surfaces, while noting that tracks with very large jumps are better suited to the longer shock package. The J&T Bearing towers offer racers an aftermarket alternative built on similar geometry principles.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new shock towers are available through ProMotionRC.com, the official retailer for J&T Bearing Company. All four SKUs are priced at $36.99 each and are available for purchase now.

  • BBR Captures Ferrari’s Silverstone Comeback with New SF26 Diecasts for Hamilton and Leclerc

    BBR Captures Ferrari’s Silverstone Comeback with New SF26 Diecasts for Hamilton and Leclerc

    BBR Rolls Out Ferrari SF26 Models from the British Grand Prix

    Fresh off Charles Leclerc’s dramatic victory at Silverstone, BBR has announced a new pair of 1:18 and 1:43 scale diecast models of the Ferrari SF26 as raced by both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton at the 2026 British Grand Prix.

    Two Scales, Two Drivers, Multiple Packaging Options

    The 1:18 scale versions are the highlight, featuring removable front nose and wheels for closer inspection. BBR is offering each driver’s car in two packaging choices:

    • Polyfoam pack – a standard protective box
    • Luxury pack – a higher-end presentation with leatherette base and plexiglass cover

    The product codes break down as follows:

    • Leclerc’s winning car: BBR2618D16 (polyfoam) and BBR2618D16DIE (luxury)
    • Hamilton’s third-place car: BBR2618D44 (polyfoam) and BBR2618D44DIE (luxury)

    For collectors who prefer smaller scale, the 1:43 versions are also available. These include both standard models and versions with a driver figure. The driver figure, helmet on, is placed in the cockpit for both scales. The 1:43 lineup:

    • BBRC332D16 – Leclerc winner
    • BBRC332D44 – Hamilton third place
    • BBRC332D16DR – Leclerc with driver
    • BBRC332D44DR – Hamilton with driver

    Race Background and Significance

    The models commemorate a landmark race for Scuderia Ferrari. On July 5, 2026, Leclerc ended a winless stretch of more than a year and a half by leading from the first lap at Silverstone. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli suffered technical problems and finished sixteenth. Hamilton drove to a third-place finish, with George Russell’s Mercedes splitting the two Ferraris. That result was Hamilton’s second podium of the season, following his victory in Barcelona, and came after he finished second in Saturday’s sprint race. It marked Ferrari’s 250th Formula 1 victory and Leclerc’s first win at Silverstone – his ninth career win. The race also saw Ferrari place two cars in the top three for the first time in 37 Grands Prix; the previous occurrence was the Austin Grand Prix in October 2024, when Leclerc and Carlos Sainz secured a one-two finish.

    Authentic Detailing and Build Quality

    BBR describes the models as high-quality metal diecast, faithfully reproduced in every detail. The Italian workshop’s experience in handmade products is combined with Chinese manufacturing technology to deliver precision at scale. The 1:18 models offer removable components, and both scales include a driver figure with helmet placed in the cockpit. The red fabric cover shown in some promotional images is part of the rendering set and is not included with the model.

    Broader SF26 Model Line

    The British Grand Prix models join BBR’s growing catalog of Ferrari SF26 releases, which already includes earlier 2026 races like the Chinese Grand Prix and the Spanish Grand Prix (where Hamilton scored his first Ferrari win on June 14, 2026). At that Barcelona race, Hamilton secured his first-ever Formula 1 victory driving for Scuderia Ferrari, after two years at Maranello. BBR has also produced models for the 2025 season, including the SF-25 with special Miami GP liveries and Monaco GP liveries commemorating 75 years of Ferrari’s partnership with Shell.

    Availability

    The models are listed now through BBR and authorized retailers like Mint Models. The 1:18 luxury pack includes a leatherette base and plexiglass display case, while the polyfoam pack offers a simpler packaging option. The 1:43 models without the driver figure come in standard packaging. Collectors should note that the red fabric cover shown in some promotional images is part of the rendering set and not included with the model.

  • Nova Engines and Jared Tebo Drop the X3B JTP Edition – A $490 Nitro Collaboration

    Nova Engines and Jared Tebo Drop the X3B JTP Edition – A $490 Nitro Collaboration

    Italian engine manufacturer Nova Engines has introduced the X3B JTP Edition, a 3-port off-road nitro engine created in collaboration with US off-road champion Jared Tebo. Priced at $490, the engine is available now through JTP RC at ShopJTP.com. According to Nova Engines, the engine is built for racers who demand more than just power.

    Specifications and Design

    The X3B JTP Edition features a 15.94mm bore and 17.50mm stroke, with a 3-port layout that is paired to a 4-booster exhaust design. The crankshaft is DLC-coated to reduce friction, and the engine is fitted with front and rear ceramic bearings that further lower internal friction. The rotating assembly includes a lightweight piston and conrod to improve throttle response, along with an Aerolite Turbo Backplate designed to enhance flow. Fuel is delivered through a triple-adjustment carburetor, and the engine comes with two low-profile venturis — 7mm and 8mm — giving racers the ability to choose the choke size that suits their track conditions. The engine is topped with a personalized JTP cooling head and carburetor ring, and each unit ships with a Nova 5 Hot Glow Plug.

    Nova Engines designed the X3B JTP Edition for competitive off-road racing, where consistency and throttle response are essential. Every component, from the DLC-coated crankshaft to the lightweight conrod, is selected to help the engine perform reliably under demanding conditions. The lightweight piston and conrod reduce reciprocating mass, helping deliver the sharp response that racers expect.

    Performance Promises

    Nova Engines states that every component was chosen for a reason. The engine is engineered to deliver sharp response, smooth rotation, low friction, better flow, and more consistency when the race gets serious. The company emphasizes that this is not merely a cosmetic special edition — it is a genuine performance upgrade based on Jared Tebo’s racing experience.

    “This is not just a Special Edition, this is Jared Tebo’s racing experience translated into Nova Engineering!” — Nova Engines

    The DLC coating and ceramic bearings work together to reduce friction, while the lightweight conrod and piston and the Aerolite Turbo Backplate improve throttle response and flow. The 4-booster exhaust design contributes to the engine’s overall flow characteristics, and the engine is designed to deliver consistent power over the course of a race. The two low-profile venturis, at 7mm and 8mm, allow the racer to tailor the air intake to the engine’s power band and track layout. The triple-adjustment carburetor gives racers precise control over the fuel mixture, ensuring consistent performance throughout a race.

    The Collaboration Behind the Engine

    Jared Tebo is one of the most successful off-road RC racers in the United States. The X3B JTP Edition is the result of a direct collaboration between Tebo and Nova Engines, an Italian manufacturer known for high-performance nitro engines. The engine is sold exclusively through JTP RC, Tebo’s own brand store, and the personalized cooling head and carburetor ring make this edition visually distinct from standard Nova models. Additional reporting from Red RC and LiveRC confirms that the engine was developed with Tebo’s direct input and is intended to bring his racing experience to a production engine. Tebo’s involvement ensures that the engine’s characteristics match his preferred setup, offering racers a proven configuration.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Nova Engines X3B JTP Edition is listed at $490 and is available exclusively through ShopJTP.com. Each engine includes a Nova 5 Hot Glow Plug in the box. The personalized components set this edition apart from other Nova offerings.

  • LEGO Unleashes Five New Pokémon Sets, Minifigures, and a Giant Poké Ball

    LEGO Unleashes Five New Pokémon Sets, Minifigures, and a Giant Poké Ball

    The LEGO Group and The Pokémon Company International are expanding their partnership with five new building sets that introduce the first-ever trainer minifigures, a massive Poké Ball display, and brick-built versions of fan-favorite Pokémon like Rayquaza and Arcanine.

    Pre-orders are live now on LEGO.com and through Pokémon Center, with the rollout split across two waves: three sets arrive in August 2026, and two more follow in October 2026.

    The Star of the Show: Iconic Trainer Moments Poké Ball

    The headline set is 72154 Iconic Trainer Moments Poké Ball, a hefty build with a piece count reported as either 2,339 or 2,368 pieces depending on the source. The Poké Ball opens up to reveal a detailed diorama: Professor Oak’s laboratory in the top half, complete with library shelves, computers, and Pokédex tiles, while a gym battle plays out below. This set also marks a major milestone—the introduction of the first-ever Pokémon Trainer minifigures. It includes Red, Professor Oak, and a Picnicker, plus minifigure-scale Pikachu and Eevee. The price is US$299.99, and it is recommended for builders ages 10 and up.

    Legendary Rayquaza Takes Flight

    For those after a towering centerpiece, the 72168 Rayquaza set recreates the iconic Sky Pillar scene from Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. The legendary Dragon/Flying-type Pokémon sits on a cloud-covered display stand, and the entire build stands more than 15 inches tall. Rayquaza can be detached and posed, with movable arms, head, and tail. The set includes an exclusive Lorekeeper Zinnia minifigure holding an Ultra Ball. It contains 1,083 pieces, is priced at US$129.99, and is aimed at builders ages 12 and up.

    Arcanine Brings the Heat

    Fire-type fans get a treat with 72160 Arcanine, a 1,190-piece model that stands about seven inches tall. The set depicts the Kanto Pokémon with its distinctive mane and an articulated tail, plus a movable head, mouth, legs, and feet for dynamic display. The US price is $109.99, and the set targets builders ages 10 and up.

    Munchlax: A Snack-Loving Display Piece

    The 72150 Munchlax set features the Normal-type Pokémon on a display base that resembles a tree stump, with a supply of apples. Builders can pose the figure’s arms, legs, and head. This 757-piece model is designed for ages 18 and up and costs US$69.99.

    Up-Scaled Red Minifigure

    Rounding out the lineup is 40868 Up-Scaled Red Minifigure, a 930-piece supersized version of the classic trainer from Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow. The figure features posable arms and legs, his signature red hat and vest, a yellow backpack, and a Poké Ball accessory. It is priced at US$79.99 and recommended for builders ages 10 and up.

    Availability and Pre-Orders

    All five sets are available for pre-order now on LEGO.com and via Pokémon Center. The first wave—Rayquaza, Arcanine, and Munchlax—launches alongside the LEGO Pokémon Smart Play sets (interactive sets aimed at younger fans) and is slated to ship in August 2026. The Poké Ball set and Up-Scaled Red Minifigure will follow in October 2026, just in time for the holiday season.

    LEGO is also offering a Red Minifigure keychain separately for US$6 starting in October, providing a budget-friendly alternative for those who want the character without splurging on the giant Poké Ball.

    With the addition of trainer minifigures and a strong mix of display pieces, the LEGO Pokémon line continues to grow far beyond the initial trio of sets released earlier this year.

  • Amalgam’s 1:4 Ferrari 499P Engine Model Lays Bare a Le Mans Winner’s Heart

    Amalgam’s 1:4 Ferrari 499P Engine Model Lays Bare a Le Mans Winner’s Heart

    Amalgam Collection has pulled the bodywork off one of the most significant endurance racers of the modern era — and turned what’s underneath into a staggering 1:4 scale model. The new Ferrari 499P V6 Engine and Gearbox replica goes on sale just in time for the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans, and it’s a deep dive into the powertrain that helped bring Ferrari back to overall victory at La Sarthe.

    Limited to just 499 pieces, this isn’t a simple curio. It’s a hand-built engineering study priced at $18,495 USD, and every detail is drawn straight from Ferrari’s own design data.

    The Heart of a Hypercar

    Under the skin of the Ferrari 499P Hypercar sits a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6, derived from the 296 platform but re-engineered for endurance competition. The actual engine serves as a structural element of the chassis, and its seven-speed sequential gearbox handles power delivery to the rear wheels while a front-mounted hybrid system harvests energy under braking. Amalgam’s model captures all of it — not just the shapes, but the layered architecture of the powertrain.

    Every component has been recreated using original CAD files, engineering data, and reference material supplied directly by Ferrari. The result reveals details normally hidden beneath the Hypercar’s carbon-fibre monocoque, including the compact transmission housing and intricately cast manifolds.

    Craftsmanship by the Numbers

    The sheer scale of the effort behind this model is worth noting. Amalgam says it took over 3,500 hours to develop the tooling and master patterns. Each individual model then requires more than 325 hours of skilled labour — casting, fitting, painting, and assembling thousands of precisely engineered parts that include castings, photo-etchings, and CNC-machined metal components.

    The finished piece measures over 35 centimetres (13 inches) long, making it a substantial display object. It’s built using the finest quality materials and genuine Ferrari paint references.

    Backed by a Two-Decade Partnership

    Sandy Copeman, founder of Amalgam Collection, credited the company’s long-standing relationship with Ferrari for the model’s accuracy.

    “Having worked alongside Ferrari for more than twenty years, we are uniquely privileged to receive access to original CAD files, engineering data and reference material directly from the teams that create these remarkable machines. That access, combined with the involvement and approval of Ferrari throughout the development process, allows us to create models with a level of accuracy that simply cannot be achieved any other way.”

    Copeman also drew a comparison to fine watchmaking: “Its beauty lies in the complexity and precision of its construction.”

    Completing the 499P Collection

    This engine-and-gearbox model rounds out Amalgam’s existing Ferrari 499P range, which already includes multiple race-winning Le Mans editions, race-weathered versions, full-scale steering wheel recreations, and the 1:8 scale Ferrari 499P model priced at $23,995. For those who want to see the engineering in even greater detail, the new 1:4 scale release offers a view that the complete car model simply can’t provide.

    A Winner’s Pedigree

    The model is based on the powertrain from the Ferrari 499P that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023, 2024, and 2025, making it a celebration of Ferrari’s modern Hypercar dominance. The 2023 race — the Centenary edition — marked Ferrari’s return to the top class of endurance racing after a 50-year absence. The #51 car of Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado, and Antonio Giovinazzi completed 342 laps to secure Ferrari’s tenth overall victory at Le Mans, while the #50 sister car finished fifth after a radiator leak. Per tradition, church bells rang in Maranello to signal the victory.

    Availability

    The Ferrari 499P V6 Engine and Gearbox at 1:4 scale is now available to order directly from Amalgam Collection’s website for $18,495 USD. Each model in the limited edition of 499 pieces will be hand-built and assembled by a small team of craftsmen, with production requiring over 325 hours per unit.

  • Bittydesign Debuts A3-M Body With TCR Championship DNA for 1/10 M-Chassis

    Bittydesign Debuts A3-M Body With TCR Championship DNA for 1/10 M-Chassis

    Bittydesign has released a new polycarbonate body shell for the 1/10 scale M-Chassis class, drawing inspiration from the aggressive lines of TCR World Championship race cars. The CA45-M, also known as the A3-M, is a clear, unpainted shell engineered for universal fit across popular mini-chassis platforms.

    Universal Fit and Build Details

    The body is compatible with all 1/10 M-Chassis cars that have a wheelbase between 210mm and 225mm. It works on 4WD chassis and front-wheel-drive (2WD) cars alike. According to AMain Hobbies, the body is an updated design for the 1/10 M-chassis FWD class. Sold clear with a protective outer film, each kit includes a pre-cut decal sheet and window masks to help modelers apply their own paint schemes.

    Engineering and Materials

    Bittydesign produces the CA45-M/A3-M from high-quality Lexan® polycarbonate in a 0.75mm lightweight version to keep weight down. The company spent several months in virtual design using advanced CAD software, and the final molds are cut with 5-axis CNC milling machines for precision. Bittydesign notes that its engineering draws on over 20 years of experience, with a philosophy centered on rejecting mediocrity in favor of top-tier quality. The body was tested for several months to generate a product that combines a realistic aesthetic with performance, according to AMain Hobbies.

    TCR-Inspired Design

    The shape replicates the proportions of a full-scale TCR Championship car, adapted for the M-Chassis platform. Bittydesign created enlarged fenders and a modern, aggressive silhouette, aiming to balance aerodynamic performance with scale realism. The design has also been described as recalling the forms of real front-wheel drive cars produced in Japan, with months of refinement and attention to detail. Bittydesign offers the body in a Racing version with widened wheel arches to guarantee better aerodynamic performance, optimized thanks to the large front splitter and specially designed wing that generate rear stability, better traction, and improved balance.

    “The A3-M body represents the best result of performance and aesthetics into the same product, a great mix with modern and aggressive look,” says Bittydesign.

    The company’s official product page notes that the design reproduces the volumes of the C segment, a category of real-world compact cars. The design phase took several months to refine every detail, with an obsessive focus on aerodynamics while staying faithful to the 1:1 scale car.

    Included Hardware

    The kit provides a complete set of screws, nuts, and large plastic washers for mounting the rear wing, as well as realistic plastic wing mounts, according to the announcement. This hardware simplifies installation and ensures a secure fit for track use or display.

    Availability and Origin

    Bittydesign states that all its body shells are 100% Made in Italy. The CA45-M/A3-M is available now through Bittydesign and retail partners. AMain Hobbies has the body in its catalog with an entry date of June 13, 2023; Michael’s RC Hobbies also lists the product. LiveRC and RC Car Action have covered the release. The body is sold clear — painted images in promotional materials are for illustration only. This release gives M-Chassis racers and scale builders a new option that combines TCR racing heritage with lightweight polycarbonate construction and universal fitment.

  • FMS Drops a License-to-Crawl 1/10 Toyota Land Cruiser LC80 RS Brushless RTR

    FMS Drops a License-to-Crawl 1/10 Toyota Land Cruiser LC80 RS Brushless RTR

    FMS Model has just rolled out a new rig that’s bound to turn heads on the trail and the shelf alike. The company has officially released the 1/10 scale FCX10 OVR Toyota Land Cruiser LC80 RS Brushless RTR, a ready-to-run crawler packing a licensed body, serious brushless power, and a laundry list of scale details.

    Licensed Looks and Co-Branded Style

    This isn’t just another generic box on wheels. The LC80 RS features a realistic Land Cruiser body with official Toyota licensing and a co-branding nod to OVRmag. The attention to detail extends inside the cab, where you’ll find a highly detailed interior complete with a molded dashboard, steering wheel, cockpit, and even a driver figure. Getting the body off for battery swaps or tuning is a breeze thanks to a quick-release magnetic mounting system.

    Lighting That Works As Good As It Looks

    FMS has gone all-in on the lighting package. The model comes with full LED lighting including headlights, turn signals, and reverse lights, all magnetically activated for a clean, wire-free connection when the body is attached. For those who love a bit of vintage flair, the truck also includes a KC Light Kit with both vintage and modern lamp shades, complete with KC logo stickers.

    Brushless Power with a Two-Speed Transmission

    Under the hood (or rather, under the detailed shell) is a 3541 1200kV brushless motor paired with a 50A ESC that includes a 6V/3A BEC. FMS claims a top speed of 20 km/h, which should provide plenty of zip for open trails. The real party trick, however, is the two-speed transmission, offering both high and low gear ranges for everything from realistic creeping to faster bashing sessions. The drivetrain is backed up by an all-metal gear train and is fully equipped with ball bearings throughout.

    Scale Chassis and Authentic Rubber

    The crawler rides on a true-to-scale front and rear solid axle setup, part of the RS version chassis upgrade. Suspension duties are handled by metal adjustable oil shocks, which should help keep those HDR-licensed wheels with TOYO Open Country A/T III tires planted on the rocks. The wheels and tires alone are a major selling point for scale enthusiasts who demand authentic-looking rubber.

    Pricing and Availability

    FMS is offering the 1/10 FCX10 OVR LC80 RS Brushless RTR at a special introductory price of $399. The model carries the part number #FMS11042RSGN-BL. For those looking to pick one up directly from the manufacturer, the FMS Hobby website lists a variant of the LC80 RS at $369.99 USD, with free shipping on orders over $99 and typical RC car delivery times of 3-7 business days from the US warehouse. The model is also listed on Amazon and through international retailers like Australia’s Hobbies Direct, where speeds are noted as 10/22 kph, suggesting different gearing or battery configurations may affect top-end performance.

    A Few Caveats from the Field

    While the initial release is generating plenty of buzz, one early Amazon reviewer of the related FMS FCX10 LC80 V2 Pro reported durability issues, specifically citing cracked axle and portal housings after a week of normal crawling use. The customer rated the truck 1/5, praising its realistic appearance and performance but criticizing what they described as brittle plastic in key drivetrain components. It’s a single data point, but one worth noting for potential buyers who plan to run their rig hard.

    For now, the new LC80 RS is a striking addition to FMS’s lineup, bringing a legendary Toyota nameplate to the RC crawling world in a highly detailed, brushless-ready package.