Blog

  • Shark RC Launches LS23w Drag Body: A 1/10 Scale 2023 Corvette for Prep and Outlaw Classes

    Shark RC Launches LS23w Drag Body: A 1/10 Scale 2023 Corvette for Prep and Outlaw Classes

    Shark RC Bodies has added a new clear drag body to its lineup, the LS23w, a 1/10 scale replica of a 2023 Corvette built for competitive limited prep and outlaw prep classes. The shell rides on a 13.5-inch wheelbase and is described by the company as a “rocket ship” in those classes.

    The LS23w is now produced by Shark RC using the original mold from Racer RC. It does not include a rear bumper—a standard omission for the two main classes it targets. The body is primarily intended for limited prep and outlaw prep classes, but if a bracket class does not require a bumper, it fits well there too.

    Two Thickness Options

    Racers can choose between .040-inch material for lighter weight or .060-inch thickness, which is being offered for the first time on this body. The thicker material is intended to reduce body flap, a common issue at high speeds. Shark RC states both thicknesses are currently in stock.

    What’s Included

    The LS23w arrives clear with body film, window paint masks, and a decal kit included. The body is sold unpainted, ready for the customer’s own finish. Wings are not part of the package but can be sourced separately from Straightline Spoilers, BC Racer Cars, or Caldwell Raceworks. Shark RC has stated it will not produce Bullet wings for this body because suitable wings are already available from other manufacturers.

    Pricing and Availability

    The LS23w starts at $52.99 and is available now directly from Shark RC at SharkRCBodies.com. The body is also sold through retail partners such as Go Fast Hobbies, which carries a range of Shark RC products including drag, late model, and street stock bodies. The Shark RC online store is a verified seller, accepts multiple payment methods, and offers free shipping on orders over $50, with in-store pickup available within 2 hours. The company also offers a 30-day return policy.

    A Broader Lineup

    Shark RC Bodies offers a wide variety of bodies for dirt oval, drag racing, short course trucks, and late model cars. The company’s website features categories for Drag Bodies, Slash Street Stock, 1/10 Buggy, 1/10 Late Model, SR10, and accessories. Popular models from the brand include The Edge, The Coyote, and The Gambler, with prices ranging from $39.99 to $69.99 across the catalog. Slash Street Stock bodies are priced between $56 and $70, and 1/10 Late Model bodies range from $39.99 to $52.99. Smaller accessories such as mounting kits and decals are under $10. The company is also looking for new dealers and offers dealer programs. Some Shark RC bodies carry official approvals such as RC Chili Bowl approved or DODC legal, ensuring compliance with competitive racing standards, though the LS23w is not specifically listed as approved.

    Shark RC’s design approach includes features such as bubbled front wheel wells for better tire clearance, higher front bumpers, smaller grille openings, recessed domed headlights, and aerodynamic shapes aimed at improving turn-in, rear traction, and overall stability. Reinforced rear decks help prevent buckling under stress. The company’s bodies are available in .040 and .060 thicknesses, with the .060 offering greater durability.

    For drag racers building a 1/10 scale car with a modern Corvette look, the LS23w provides a ready-to-finish option with a choice of stiffness, a full set of trim and decals, and compatibility with the prep and outlaw classes.

  • Hudy’s Octopus Tire Bands Even Out the Glue-Up for RC Racers

    Hudy’s Octopus Tire Bands Even Out the Glue-Up for RC Racers

    Hudy has a new tool for RC racers who glue their own tires: the HUDY Tire Mounting Band – Octopus. Announced on September 2, 2026, the accessory is a flexible band designed for mounting tires to wheels. RC Car Action covered the launch, and LiveRC carried Hudy’s press release for the 1/8 version. The RC Car Action post is headlined “Hudy Octopus Tire Mounting Band.” RC Car Action lists the item under its RC Cars & Trucks news section.

    Hudy says the octopus-style band is designed to make tire gluing quick, easy, and precise. The flexible band applies even pressure around the entire tire, which the company says helps achieve perfect bonding between the tire and wheel. A flexible band design is listed as a key reason the results stay consistent. The announcement text describes the band as both flexible and octopus-style, two details that also show up in Hudy’s feature list.

    The key details in the announcement are simple:

    • Each set contains four bands.
    • The Octopus band is offered in 1/10 and 1/8 sizes.
    • The octopus-style design applies even pressure for tire-to-wheel bonding.
    • Hudy describes the tool as easy and precise to use.

    Hudy presents the four-piece set as an essential tool for consistent and reliable tire preparation. The full feature list starts with the octopus-style band and ends with the four-piece set. In between, Hudy lists even pressure for perfect bonding, easy and precise gluing, the two size options, and the flexible design for consistent results.

    Two Versions for Off-Road Tires

    Hudy is offering the band in two off-road versions. The black version is designed to perfectly fit 1/10 off-road tires. The purple version is designed to perfectly fit 1/8 off-road tires. According to Hudy, the black version has a stylish black design with HUDY graphics, while the purple version carries a stylish purple design with HUDY graphics. Both combine functionality with a professional look. Both sets are supplied as four pieces. The same flexible design appears across both sizes. The color choice lines up with the size: black for 1/10 off-road tires, purple for 1/8 off-road tires.

    The black version appears in the RC Car Action announcement. The purple version appears in the Hudy press release relayed by LiveRC, whose story was headlined “New Hudy 1/8th Tire Bands.” The launch listing includes the designation #105252-K.

    Hudy’s Place in RC Tooling

    The new band comes from a brand with a strong profile in RC equipment. ToniSport, a European RC specialist, describes HUDY as one of the most renowned names in RC modelling. Its page is titled “HUDY – Premium RC Tools & Setup Tools.” The retailer’s HUDY range includes precision screwdrivers, Allen keys, measuring tools, setup systems, and complete toolboxes. ToniSport also mentions setup boards, gauges, tuning tools, transport cases, organisers, and maintenance accessories.

    According to ToniSport, HUDY products are held in high regard by both hobby drivers and top racers. The retailer states that Hudy’s lineup is focused on enabling accurate maintenance, effective tuning, and professional-grade vehicle preparation. ToniSport’s overview also highlights materials and ergonomics as strengths of the HUDY line. The retailer adds that due to their durability and accuracy, HUDY products serve as a benchmark for many RC racing teams and mechanics.

    Tire-mounting bands are sold as their own accessory category at some retailers. The British retailer RC Car Shop, for example, has a dedicated “Tyre Bands” section on its site.

    The Hudy Octopus Tire Mounting Band is a specialized addition to that landscape: a four-piece set with one job. Hudy describes that job as easy, precise tire gluing with even pressure for a solid tire-to-wheel bond. At this stage, Hudy is pointing to Hudy.net for more information.

  • Savox B-12KG Brings Analog Servo to Budget Line: Same Quality, Lower Price

    Savox B-12KG Brings Analog Servo to Budget Line: Same Quality, Lower Price

    Savox has expanded its “Budget by Savox” lineup with the B-12KG, an analog standard servo designed for beginners, bashers, and anyone needing a reliable replacement for stock RTR electronics. The new servo aims to deliver the build quality of Savox’s digital servos while keeping costs down.

    A Servo for Getting Started

    Team Savox is positioning the B-12KG as a straightforward option for those new to the hobby or for general-purpose use. The company states:

    “Built with the same quality standards as Savox’s digital servos but at a much lower price point, it’s a solid, dependable option for bashers, RTR replacements, and anyone getting started in the hobby.”

    The servo is part of the analog line within the Budget by Savox series, which the manufacturer says offers the same level of quality as the digital line at a much lower price.

    Specifications at a Glance

    The B-12KG is a standard-size analog servo powered by a DC core motor and featuring heavy-duty metal gears. It operates on a voltage range of 4.8V to 6.0V and uses a 25T spline with a JR Universal connector with colored leads.

    Performance figures from the official Savox product page:

    • Torque @ 6.0V: 12.0 kg/cm (166.7 oz-in)
    • Torque @ 4.8V: 10.0 kg/cm (138.8 oz-in)
    • Speed @ 6.0V: 0.23 sec/60°
    • Speed @ 4.8V: 0.26 sec/60°

    Current draw is listed at 6 mA quiescent, 240 mA rated, and 1600 mA blocking. The servo’s rotational range is 90° with a pulse width of 700–2100 µs.

    Build and Dimensions

    The B-12KG comes in a composite case and is rated as water and dust resistant. Servo positioning uses a VR potentiometer with direct drive. The unit features dual bearings and steel gears, according to a third-party database entry.

    Physical dimensions: 40.7 mm long and 20 mm wide, with a weight of 52 grams (1.83 oz). Height measurements vary between sources: the official Savox product page lists the height as 41.4 mm, while some hobby retailers and databases report 45.2 mm. The discrepancy likely stems from whether the measurement includes mounting tabs or the output shaft. Either way, the servo fits standard servo mounts.

    Availability and Pricing

    Savox is promoting the B-12KG through its official website at SavoxUSA.com, and the servo has already appeared at hobby retailers including RPP Hobby. The item number is B-12KG with a barcode of 4710006994062. No exact retail price has been announced by Savox, but the “Budget” branding indicates a lower price point compared to the company’s digital servos.

    For hobbyists seeking an affordable analog servo that doesn’t sacrifice basic quality, the B-12KG offers a familiar standard size with metal gears and water/dust resistance at a budget-friendly price. The servo is available now directly from Savox and through partner retailers.

  • G-Force Drops a Carpet-Ready Genova Buggy with Masami Hirosaka’s Touch

    G-Force Drops a Carpet-Ready Genova Buggy with Masami Hirosaka’s Touch

    G-Force has just unveiled a dedicated carpet-racing variant of its popular Genova 2WD buggy, and it ships September 19. The Genova Carpet Edition (part number #GK201) is a kit aimed at racers who compete on high-grip artificial turf or carpet surfaces.

    What’s New in the Carpet Edition

    The Carpet Edition keeps the Genova’s classic rear-motor layout and 292 mm wheelbase — the same platform that made the original a stable, predictable runner. But G-Force has swapped in a bundle of surface-specific hardware straight from the factory.

    The most visible addition is a front wing with a machined aluminum wing mount, designed to suppress front-end lift on grippy surfaces and cut understeer. The suspension gets carpet-specific springs that allow a lower ride height to minimize body roll and prevent high-siding in corners. Both front and rear tires are new Carpet Edition compounds, and the rear tires come with newly developed inner foam inserts. The wheels are 2.2-inch fluorescent yellow units with hexagonal hubs.

    According to G-Force, the updates also include a redesigned set of decals, a nostalgic body and wing supervised by RC legend Masami Hirosaka, and pre-assembled big-bore oil dampers. The suspension arms use a high-rigidity composite material to improve road-following performance under heavy loads. A slipper clutch is standard to protect the drivetrain during hard landings, and all gearbox gears are metal.

    “Standard equipment includes items suitable for carpeted surfaces, such as tires, inner fenders, front wing, and springs!”

    The kit comes with a gear cover to keep out sand and mud, turnbuckle-style upper arms for easy camber and toe adjustment, and universal drive shafts that are pre-assembled for quick installation.

    Specs and Pricing

    The Genova Carpet Edition is a 1/10-scale 2WD buggy kit. Key measurements:

    • Length: 405 mm (including wing and tires)
    • Wheelbase: 292 mm
    • Width: 248 mm front / 245 mm rear
    • Height: 165 mm (including wing)
    • Weight: approximately 1,040 g without electronics, ~1,400 g fully equipped
    • Motor: 540 size (not included)
    • Gear ratio: 8.39:1 (80T spur / 23T pinion)
    • Tires: 2.2″ diameter; front carpet block type, rear carpet pin type

    Like the standard Genova, the Carpet Edition is sold as an unassembled kit. Builders need to supply their own 2-channel radio, receiver, steering servo, ESC, 540-size motor, battery (7.2V NiMH, 7.4V LiPo, or 6.6V LiFe), charger, body paint, and basic tools.

    The kit is priced at ¥36,300 (approximately $225 USD, excluding tax).

    Background and Availability

    The Genova platform first launched as G-Force’s debut RC car kit, with a traditional rear-motor layout and long wheelbase that harkens back to 1980s and ’90s off-road racing. A Ver.2 later added carbon-fiber damper stays and high-rigidity composite lower arms. The Carpet Edition builds on that foundation but shifts the focus entirely to indoor-style high-grip racing.

    G-Force is distributed in the United States by Hobby Authority Distribution. The Carpet Edition is expected to begin shipping on September 19, according to Big Squid RC. Additional information is available at GForce-Hobby.jp.

  • ATS Returns to the RX-7 Mold with a Functional Light Upgrade

    ATS Returns to the RX-7 Mold with a Functional Light Upgrade

    ATS has pulled the cover off a new miniature Mazda that combines a classic silhouette with a feature rarely seen at this scale. The company’s latest 1/64 model, the Mazda RX-7 FD3S, is built from sealed metal and includes functional headlights — a detail that sets it apart from many of its diecast peers.

    Back to the Rotary Mold

    This release marks ATS’s return to its RX-7 mold. The sealed-metal construction offers a solid feel out of the box, but the real draw is the operational lighting. At a retail price of around $20 US, the model aims to deliver a premium touch without breaking the bank. The model is sold under two product numbers: ATS882202 for the Metallic Gray variant and ATS882203 for the Metallic Blue variant.

    Two Colorways for December

    ATS is offering the FD3S in two color options: Metallic Gray and Metallic Blue. Deliveries are scheduled for December 2026, giving collectors a clear target for their year-end wish lists. The $20 price point positions this release as an accessible option for both casual buyers and dedicated JDM collectors.

    The Broader RX-7 Diecast Scene

    While ATS keeps its latest model close to a factory-stock appearance, other manufacturers are also tapping into the enduring popularity of Mazda’s third-generation sports car. Inno Models, for example, offers a 1/64 scale Mazda RX-7 (FD3S) LB-Super Silhouette version tied to the Thailand Diecast Expo 2026 event. That model is finished in gray and features a right-hand-drive configuration. The Inno Models release shows that the FD3S remains a popular subject for diecast companies in 2026.

    ATS itself has previously explored earlier generations of the RX-7 in the 1/64 scale. The company has offered a model of the Mazda RX-7 FC3S in a Metallic Candy Purple color, sold under product number ATS880208. That earlier model demonstrates ATS’s continued interest in covering the full lineage of the rotary-powered coupe. The FC3S release also came from ATS’s RX-7 mold series, though it represented the previous-generation chassis.

    Functional Lights as a Key Differentiator

    Working headlights at the 1/64 scale remain a relatively uncommon feature, particularly on a sealed-metal model at this price tier. The ATS FD3S integrates functional lights into the sealed metal body, giving it a unique selling point among similarly priced diecast cars. Collectors who value small-scale mechanical detail will find this model noteworthy, as most sealed-metal 1/64 cars do not include working illumination.

    A Closer Look at the Specs

    • Scale: 1/64
    • Material: Sealed metal
    • Feature: Functional headlights
    • Colors: Metallic Gray, Metallic Blue
    • Product Numbers: ATS882202 (gray), ATS882203 (blue)
    • Retail Price: Approximately $20 US
    • Release Date: December 2026

    The model’s product numbers correspond directly to the two color options. ATS has confirmed that both variants will ship in December 2026, so collectors can choose their preferred finish now and plan their purchase accordingly.

    What the Sources Tell Us

    According to the announcement from ATS, the Mazda RX-7 FD3S model is described as “metal and sealed” with functional headlights. The two color options are Metallic Gray and Metallic Blue. Delivery is scheduled for December 2026, and the retail price is noted as around the $20 US mark. The product numbers are ATS882202 and ATS882203. This information comes directly from the company’s product listing, which also notes that this is a return to ATS’s RX-7 mold.

    Final Details

    ATS has confirmed the delivery timeline for December 2026 and two color choices for the initial run. The model carries the product numbers ATS882202 and ATS882203 for the gray and blue variants, respectively. Collectors looking to add a rotary-powered miniature with working lights to their shelf can mark their calendars for the end of the year.

  • Buttons, Beer Crate Go-Karts, and Robot Bikes: Maker Faire Tokyo 2026 Brings the Weird and Wonderful

    Buttons, Beer Crate Go-Karts, and Robot Bikes: Maker Faire Tokyo 2026 Brings the Weird and Wonderful

    Maker Faire Tokyo is back for its 22nd edition, and this year’s lineup is as gloriously offbeat as ever. The two-day festival of DIY invention lands at Ariake GYM-EX on September 5–6, 2026, with around 280 exhibitors — including about 60 Young Makers — showing off everything from a button-obsessed installation to a self-balancing bicycle robot that weighs just 160 grams.

    Here’s a preview of the projects that caught our eye.

    Push All the Buttons

    “If there’s a button, you want to push it.” That’s the philosophy behind OSEBA, an exhibit from Shimada Corporation. Their pop-up installation lets visitors go wild on all sorts of buttons — big, small, round, red, up, down. The centerpiece is “1000 Buttons,” but there’s also “333 Heartbeat Button,” a 30-second challenge to light up as many buttons as possible, and “Light Up and Pop,” a reflex-testing game. It’s a wonderfully simple premise that captures the playful spirit of Maker Faire.

    From Chopsticks to Go-Karts

    Kazuya Shibata returns with the Fully Automatic Chopstick Splitting Machine 2. Insert a pair of disposable chopsticks and the device automatically splits, cuts, and polishes them — no more uneven breaks or splinters. The original model debuted in 2019; this version has been redesigned from scratch for smoother operation.

    For something with a bit more speed, the Beeeer-Car Club brings the Fahrende Bierkiste, a German-born go-kart built on a beer crate. Powered by an engine mounted directly on the crate, this tiny kart can hit 60 km/h. A safe electric version is also in development, and the club plans to offer test drives at the faire.

    Robots and Spheres

    ROBOBIKE is a 160-gram mini bicycle robot that uses an angular velocity sensor to stay upright. Its creator designed the posture-control algorithm 30 years ago and patented it — now it’s been recreated with modern components. Watching this little two-wheeler balance and roll is pure magic.

    Also on show: Omicro Flux, a spherical robot with 10 wheels that moves inside a transparent sphere. Inspired by droids from Star Wars and Gundam, the robot can stop abruptly and roll again with surprisingly natural movements. This year, the team also developed a mixed-reality app called “Boundary Blur” that lets kids interact with the robot in a game-like way.

    Trains and Tunes

    Maker Faire Tokyo has always had a soft spot for model trains, and 2026 delivers two standout projects. The University of Tokyo engineering club has built an automated Plarail train system using a microcontroller and Bluetooth. Multiple trains run on the same track; a block system controls speed and prevents collisions, with fully automated turnaround operation.

    Meanwhile, the Music Research Institute, fresh from Maker Faire Hannover, brings “Music Train.” Play a note — Do, Re, Mi, and so on — and a model train runs along the corresponding rail. It’s part media art, part instrument, and completely delightful.

    LEGO Vending, Food DJs, and More

    Maker Tsubasa returns with an IoT-enabled LEGO vending machine that accepts cashless payments via smartphone. The entire machine — including motors and sensors — is built from LEGO bricks, except for the electronics. It’s a testament to the high level of craftsmanship that has become Tsubasa’s trademark.

    For food-themed fun, “Yakitori DJ” lets you mix sound and visuals by arranging skewers on a grill-like turntable. And Sequencer and Electric Relay, a collaboration between freelance engineer Fumitaka Kimizuka and Yamato Honda, has evolved from last year’s Chinese-restaurant round table into a revolving sushi setup where toppings and rotation speed control the music.

    The Nerdy Derby returns with its undulating track: kids build little wooden cars at an onsite workshop and race them down. Workshops on soldering, programming, and cardboard crafting will run throughout both days.

    Event Details

    Maker Faire Tokyo 2026 takes place at Ariake GYM-EX (1-10-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo). Hours are 12:00–18:00 on Saturday, September 5, and 10:00–17:00 on Sunday, September 6. Advance tickets cost ¥1,400 for adults, ¥1,000 with the evening discount, and ¥500 for visitors under 18. Same-day admission is ¥1,800/¥1,300/¥700. Preschool children enter free. Evening discount tickets are valid after 16:00 on Saturday and after 15:00 on Sunday. No weekend pass is available; each ticket covers one day. Tickets can be purchased online via eplus or Lawson Ticket.

  • Klinik RC Introduces Aluminum Diff Height Inserts for Kyosho MP11/MP11e

    Klinik RC Introduces Aluminum Diff Height Inserts for Kyosho MP11/MP11e

    Precision-Machined Drivetrain Upgrades

    Klinik RC has released a set of aluminum diff height inserts for the Kyosho MP11 and MP11e 1/8-scale buggies. These components are precision CNC machined from aluminum with a bright clear anodized finish. According to the manufacturer, they are designed to remove undesirable bearing and gear movement inside the gearboxes under high loads, promoting a solid, true-running drivetrain and longer bearing and gear life.

    Each set contains four pieces — enough to upgrade one gearbox. The bag includes two diff eccentrics and two pinion eccentrics. Upgrading both front and rear gearboxes (the entire car) requires two sets. The inserts are offered in High/Low and Middle configurations, allowing racers to adjust differential height to suit track conditions.

    The company notes that tolerances are set for new gearboxes, but some shimming may be required on used gearboxes depending on age and whether the stock eccentrics have been loose.

    Pricing and Availability

    The price is $39.99 per set. They are available directly from KlinikRC.com.

    The Kyosho Inferno MP11 Platform

    The Kyosho Inferno MP11 is the first full model change of the Inferno series in six years. It was first showcased as a prototype at the Kyosho Masters 2025 in France, held on the On-road RC94 track. The platform has been a benchmark since 1991, and claimed a world championship in 2010 with American driver Cody King in the MP9. The MP11 is available as a kit (model 33028B) and requires the user to supply a radio, engine, tires, and other components.

    The MP11 introduces a new bulkhead design that separates the bearing holders from the bulkheads, enabling adjustable differential mounting height for precise grip tuning. Larger differential pinion bearings improve durability under high loads, and the differential bevel gears are now sintered for increased strength. The center differential holder features a new split upper-lower design that simplifies maintenance by allowing differential removal without disturbing the brake cam. The spur gear is a 59T (0.8 module) with a 16T clutch bell gear, and optional spur gears and clutch bells are available for gear ratio customization.

    The chassis is a new 3mm 7075 aluminum design with true hard anodizing. The engine mounting position has been moved forward 1 mm and 1 mm toward the center to achieve a more front-biased weight distribution. The front and rear chassis sections feature a shallower angle where the curve begins to reduce friction with the road surface. The torque rod is equipped with a resin stiffener to reinforce rear chassis rigidity, and the bushings at the bulkhead base are replaceable. The new body is designed for aerodynamic efficiency, with a sharply angled nose cone and wing design that increases rear grip.

    These changes make the MP11 a competition-oriented 1/8-scale buggy. The Klinik RC inserts allow racers to further optimize the drivetrain by reducing play in the diff and pinion eccentrics, helping maintain consistent gear mesh and bearing alignment.

    Application

    The inserts are designed to replace the stock eccentrics in the MP11 and MP11e gearboxes. The availability of both High/Low and Middle sets enables users to experiment with different diff heights to fine-tune handling. The inserts are precision machined and anodized for durability. For more information, visit the Klinik RC website.

  • Fine Works Drops a Bagged ’79 Lincoln and Two C5 Corvettes – 999 Each

    Fine Works Drops a Bagged ’79 Lincoln and Two C5 Corvettes – 999 Each

    Fine Works has announced two new model car releases, unveiled on September 3, 2026. The lineup includes a modified 1979 Lincoln Continental that rides on air suspension, plus two versions of the C5 Corvette in Pearl White Normal and Custom Black. Each variant is limited to 999 units, with delivery scheduled for November 2026. The announcement was posted on Diecastsociety.com by the DS Team, with no product number assigned yet—listed as “Product# TBD.” The article had no comments at the time of posting.

    The Lincoln: A Custom Build

    The 1979 Lincoln Continental is not a standard OEM replica. According to the announcement, this example rides on bags, giving it a lowered, custom appearance. The model is described as “not an OEM piece,” emphasizing its custom nature. Production is capped at 999 pieces, making it a relatively exclusive offering for collectors interested in modified American luxury cars.

    Corvette Variants

    For C5 Corvette enthusiasts, Fine Works is offering two colorways. The Pearl White Normal and Custom Black versions each have a production limit of 999 units. Collectors who want both will need to secure two separate models, each with its own allocation. Fine Works has not yet assigned a product number, listing only “Product# TBD” in the announcement. The two finishes provide distinct options for fans of the C5 generation.

    Delivery and Ordering

    Delivery is noted as November 2026. Buyers will have several months to wait after placing orders. No further details on pricing or pre-order procedures have been provided. The product number remains to be assigned, so ordering specifics are not yet available.

    Other Lincoln Models in Development

    In a separate development, discussions on the diecast.org forum earlier this year highlighted GFCC‘s plans for a 1958 Lincoln Continental MkIII and a 1959 Pontiac Bonneville in 1:64 scale, targeted for late 2026 release. The topic was started by forum user Ken Spear on March 18, 2026, who wrote:

    “I have read that GFCC is developing a 1958 Lincoln Continental Mk111 and 1959 Pontiac Bonneville in 1/64 scale for release later in 2026. The 1958 Lincoln will be a great addition to their 1956 Lincoln Continental and MiniGTs 1954 Lincoln Capri.”

    Several collectors shared their anticipation. Ed Davis, a collector from Inverness, Illinois, who has been collecting 1/64 scale cars for over 25 years, commented: “I do not remember a 1959 Pontiac in this scale.” He also asked if he could pre-order the GFCC Pontiac to Dave Gilbert.

    Jack Dodds added: “That is good news Ken. Although I do wish it had been a ’59 or ’60 Lincoln as I am not keen on the body color headlight surrounds, I will buy it nonetheless and hope they also do the other 2 years in the future. I have the ’56 Continental and all the colors of the Capri and love their quality!”

    Bob Jackman said: “Thanks for the info. Ken. I look forward to these two GFCC models as their 1/64 scale models are terrific as are their high detail 1/43 scale.”

    Chris also chimed in: “Wow! Now that’s cool. If ANYONE (including me ) can post spy and/or prototype pics please do ASAP!”

    These GFCC models are separate from the Fine Works announcement but share a similar focus on classic Lincoln automobiles. The 1958 Lincoln Continental MkIII will join existing offerings from GFCC and MiniGT, as noted by Ken Spear.

    Closing Notes

    The Fine Works models are limited to 999 units each. The product number remains to be announced, and delivery is scheduled for November 2026.

  • SkyRC’s T120 Pico: A Tiny Dual-Charger That Does It All

    SkyRC’s T120 Pico: A Tiny Dual-Charger That Does It All

    SkyRC has just unveiled a new charger that proves big things really do come in small packages. The T120 Pico is a compact dual-channel AC charger designed for everyday RC use, whether you’re at the workbench, the track, or packing for a weekend of flying and driving.

    Small Footprint, Serious Power

    Measuring just 90 × 70 × 106 mm and weighing only 355 grams, the T120 Pico doesn’t take up much desk space. But don’t let the size fool you. It delivers a total of 120W of AC charging power, split across two independent channels. Each channel can output up to 60W and 6A, and both can run simultaneously with independent settings — so you can charge two different battery packs at once.

    Broad Battery Compatibility

    One of the standout features is the wide range of chemistries the T120 Pico can handle. It supports LiPo, LiFe, Li-ion, LiHV, Pb, NiMH, and NiCd batteries. For lithium packs, it works with 2 to 4 cells; for NiMH/NiCd, 6 to 8 cells; and for lead-acid, 3 or 6 cells. That kind of versatility means you can use the same charger for everything from a race truck’s LiPo packs to a vintage model’s NiMH batteries.

    Intelligent Charging and Balancing

    An Arm Cortex-M3 processor manages charging algorithms and control inside the T120 Pico. The main output and balance port continuously monitor each cell’s voltage throughout the charge cycle. This continuous monitoring provides safer charging and may help prolong battery life.

    More Than Just a Charger

    The T120 Pico doubles as a DC power supply with adjustable output from 6 to 17V and current from 0.5 to 6A. It comes with short-circuit, overload, and reverse-polarity protection, making it a handy tool for powering equipment at the bench. The built-in balance port also boosts discharge power to 9W, speeding up battery maintenance.

    Another useful feature is internal resistance measurement. With a simple button press, you can check the health and discharge performance of your batteries, giving you confidence before every run.

    Smart Cooling and a Fresh Interface

    A temperature sensor adjusts fan speed dynamically, delivering strong cooling during high-power sessions and quieter operation when the load is light. This helps maintain stable 60W performance per channel.

    SkyRC also gave the T120 Pico a new ColorX user interface with a light cyan and green color scheme designed specifically for RC charging. The Web2.0 responsive menu and well-designed icons make it feel like operating a smartphone. The interface supports English, Chinese, German, Spanish, French, and Japanese, according to the specifications.

    Safety First

    SkyRC has packed in multiple safety protections: short-circuit, capacity, time-out, reverse polarity, cut-off, over-voltage, and overload protection, plus a flame-retardant chassis. The charger’s operating temperature range is 0°C to 40°C with working humidity of 5% to 75%.

    Availability and Documentation

    The T120 Pico is listed on SkyRC’s official website. The product page includes an instruction manual dated August 28, 2026 (version V.31). For more details, visit SkyRC.com.

  • MR and Looksmart Drop Ultra-Rare Die-Cast Models: Aventador SVJ and Ferrari Testarossa Spider

    MR and Looksmart Drop Ultra-Rare Die-Cast Models: Aventador SVJ and Ferrari Testarossa Spider

    Two new limited-edition die-cast models have landed from sister brands MR Collection and Looksmart, offering collectors a pair of stunning supercar replicas in ultra-short production runs.

    Lamborghini Aventador SVJ – One of Five

    MR Collection has unveiled a 1:18 scale Lamborghini Aventador SVJ in Nero Aldebaran, limited to just five pieces (product code LAMBO034AT7). The model replicates the real Aventador SVJ, which packs a 6.5‑liter V12 delivering 770 CV (566 kW) at 8,500 rpm, a 0–100 km/h time of 2.8 seconds, and a top speed exceeding 350 km/h. The real car, built at Lamborghini’s plant in Sant’Agata Bolognese, features a carbon‑fiber monocoque, Lamborghini’s ALA 2.0 active aerodynamics, rear‑wheel steering, and a four‑wheel‑drive system optimized with the rear‑steering setup. Its ISR (Independent Shifting Rods) transmission delivers lightning‑fast gear changes. With only five units produced, this is an extremely limited edition.

    Ferrari 849 Testarossa Spider in 1:43

    Looksmart’s new release is a 1:43 scale Ferrari 849 Testarossa Spider in Grigio Competizione Assetto Fiorano (product code LS566C). A second variant in Rosso Corsa (code LS566B) is also available. The real 849 Testarossa Spider builds on the SF90 Spider, incorporating the Ferrari Integrated Vehicle Estimator (FIVE) digital system. According to Looksmart’s product details, the car’s lateral performance is improved thanks to new tires and a specific setup, which brought a 35% reduction in road‑spring weight and a 10% reduction in roll. Longitudinal acceleration in third gear is enhanced by an improved weight‑to‑power ratio, increased combustion engine performance at high revs, and dedicated shaping of the overall power delivery – all without compromising low‑end response. The Looksmart model is an official product, and MR Group serves as an official supplier of Ferrari during major international car shows and world premieres.

    A Larger‑Scale Ferrari Option

    MR Collection has also opened preorders for a 1:18 scale Ferrari 849 Testarossa Spider finished in Giallo Ambra (product code FE050SE). This version is limited to 49 pieces and listed as future production. It shares the same technical description as the Looksmart 1:43 model, giving collectors the chance to own the Ferrari in a larger format – albeit still in very limited numbers.

    The MR Group Connection

    Both MR Collection and Looksmart are part of the MR Group, which holds official licensing agreements with Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Bugatti. The group produces the exclusive Ferrari Contact Plan models – 1:43‑scale replicas built to match the colors and specifications of cars purchased by Ferrari customers. MR Group models are also sold in the Ferrari Store worldwide.

    How to Get Them

    The MR Collection Lamborghini Aventador SVJ and the Looksmart Ferrari 849 Testarossa Spider (in both Grigio Competizione and Rosso Corsa) are available now through their respective websites. The 1:18 Ferrari from MR Collection is open for preorder. Collectors should visit MR Collection and Looksmart Models for ordering and availability details.