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Vanquish Products has expanded its Battle Born wheel family with a budget-friendly twist. The new 2.2-inch Battle Born Sierra Molded Beadlock Wheel Set swaps machined aluminum for a molded construction and carries a price of just $14.99 for a set of two wheels. Announced on September 2, 2026, the set carries part number IRC00531.

Simpler Setup

The most notable change from Vanquish’s existing aluminum Battle Born wheels is the hub. The Sierra molded version features a 12mm hex hub that is molded directly into the wheel face, making it a fixed, non-adjustable hub. Unlike the aluminum Sierra and Whiskey wheels, which require separate SLW hubs sold by Vanquish, this molded variant works with standard 12mm hex axles right out of the box. No extra hub purchase is needed.

Build and Assembly

The wheels use a 0.8-inch inner clamp ring to secure the tire bead. Assembly requires eight M3 screws that drive into the wheel from the rear face. Vanquish states that no extra hardware is required—all necessary screws and the clamp ring are included in the kit. The rear-face screw pattern helps maintain a clean front face, mimicking the look of a full beadlock wheel. If you want to add extra weight, the wheels are compatible with Vanquish’s optional 2.2 0.8-inch Brass Clamp Ring (part VPS05257), which can replace the molded ring.

Licensed Design

The Sierra wheel is an officially licensed replica of the full-size Sierra wheel from Battle Born Wheels, a recognizable brand in off-road wheel design. The molded version retains the slotted beadlock ring appearance, giving scale crawlers and trail trucks an authentic look without the premium price of aluminum. The fixed hex hub limits fitment to models with standard 12mm hex axles, which covers the majority of 1/10 scale RC crawlers and trail rigs.

How It Compares to the Aluminum Version

Vanquish’s product line includes the aluminum Battle Born Sierra wheels (part VPS08151), which are machined from high-quality aluminum. According to the official Vanquish Products page, the aluminum set includes two front faces, two rear rings, two anodized slotted beadlock rings, two 0.8-inch molded clamp rings, a screw kit (VPS05000), and an instruction sheet. The aluminum set’s included clamp rings are noted as not IFR compatible, and the anodizing process may cause slight color variations between units. The aluminum wheels do not come with SLW hubs; those must be purchased separately in raw aluminum, black anodized, or brass. Retailers such as RPP Hobby and Amain Hobbies list the aluminum variants, while the new molded Sierra set is listed under its own part number IRC00531.

The molded version simplifies the package: the hex hub is integrated into the wheel face, and the included clamp ring and screws allow immediate mounting on standard hex axles. Builders who already have heavier brass clamp rings can upgrade the molded set using the VPS05257 brass ring.

The Bigger Battle Born Family

The molded Sierra wheels join a growing lineup of Battle Born offerings from Vanquish, which also includes the aluminum Sierra and aluminum Whiskey models. The Whiskey model (part VPS08260) is available through retailers like Amain Hobbies and HobbyTown, and shares the same SLW hub requirement and anodized slotted beadlock ring design. The aluminum versions are available in both Sierra and Whiskey designs, while the molded Sierra is the only molded option currently. The molded version stands apart by integrating the hub directly into the wheel face, offering a simpler, lower-cost entry into the Battle Born wheel family.

Availability

The Vanquish 2.2 Battle Born Sierra Molded Beadlock Wheel Set is available now directly from Vanquish Products and through hobby retailers. The $14.99 price point for a set of two wheels makes it one of the most accessible ways to get the Battle Born look on a scale rig. The part number to look for is IRC00531.

Visit VanquishProducts.com

Small-scale collectors have a packed release calendar to watch. Tarmac Works and its related partners have unveiled a new batch of upcoming diecast models in both 1:43 and 1:64 scales, and the lineup spans race winners, GT3 contenders, and Japanese tuner builds. DiecastSociety.com shared the announcement, which covers Porsches, Nissans, Toyotas, Mercedes-Benzes, a Mazda, and a Mitsubishi Fuso.

The 1:43 Entry

The 1:43 side of the announcement is a single model: a Porsche 911 GT3 R in Phantom Global Racing livery from the 2025 GT World Challenge Asia season. Its product code is T43-030-25FUJ13, and the listing pairs the car with drivers Sun Jingzu and Adderly Fong.

The 1:64 Wave

The 1:64 list is much broader, mixing body-kitted road cars with competition machinery.

The tuner and street side includes:

• LB-KAIDO WORKS Nissan R32 Skyline Tarmac (T64-097-25TAS)
• LB-WORKS Toyota Supra (A90) in Black (T64-109-BK) and Red (T64-109-RD)
• LB-WORKS Nissan GT-R R35 Type 2 in White (T64-090-WH)
• Pandem Mazda RX-7 FC3S Watanabe (T64-066-WA)
• Mitsubishi Fuso Super Great LB-TRUCKS (T64T-TL001-LBY)
• Porsche 911 Carrera RS (964) in Mint Green (T64S-017-MG)

Race winners occupy a big chunk of the 1:64 list. Maro Engel’s 2015 Macau GT Cup/FIA GT World Cup-winning Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 appears as T64-087-15MGP01. The 2022 24 Hours of Spa-winning Mercedes-AMG GT3, shared by Jules Gounon, Daniel Juncadella, and Raffaele Marciello, is listed as T64-062-22SPA88. Le Mans gets its due with the Porsche 911 GT3 R that won the LMGT3 class at the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans; T64-084-25LM92 commemorates drivers Ryan Hardwick, Richard Lietz, and Riccardo Pera. Porsche is also represented by Brett Boulton’s 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) from Porsche Carrera Cup Australia (T64-093-25CCA95). Rally fans get a Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 Hybrid carrying Kalle Rovanperä and Jonne Halttunen’s 2024 Safari Rally Kenya-winning livery (T64-085-24SAF69).

The tuner entries give collectors two LB-WORKS Supra color choices, plus both an R32 Skyline and an R35 GT-R in LB-style builds. The Pandem Mazda RX-7 FC3S adds another Japanese tuner entry, and the Mitsubishi Fuso Super Great LB-TRUCKS brings a commercial vehicle into the mix.

Behind the Brand

Tarmac Works is a Hong Kong-based diecast model car brand founded in 2013. It made its name with premium 1:64 offerings, and its website says the focus runs from JDMs to supercars to F1 race cars, with the tagline “Every car has a story.” Retailer ModelCars.com describes the catalog as racing-authentic and JDM-focused, with lines like Global64, HOBBY64, and Road64 spanning international championships, Japanese tuner culture, and street-performance cars. The same retailer says Tarmac Works tends to cover racing series often overlooked by mainstream manufacturers, including Japanese touring cars, Asian GT championships, historic racing, and contemporary motorsport.

ModelCars.com also highlights the model-level details: accurate racing liveries researched from period photography and team documentation, detailed sponsor decals and race graphics, rubber tires on period-correct racing wheels, lowered suspension, detailed interiors where visible, and excellent paint quality. Some releases feature working features and opening elements, and the site references limited-edition racing liveries and anniversary releases as part of the catalog.

Tarmac Works also runs the Tarmac Owners Club, launched in 2019 with the goal of giving collectors additional savings, priority purchase, and exclusive models. Starting in 2025, each year’s membership begins on January 1 and lasts 12 months, and collectors can join at any time while that year’s membership quota remains available.

DiecastSociety.com says full definitions and photos of the announced models are part of its reveal, giving collectors a chance to inspect each livery and product code.

IXO Models has rolled out its August product assortment, bringing a fresh wave of die-cast models across 1:18, 1:43, and 1:64 scales. Known for its budget-friendly approach, the brand is also including some newly tooled examples in this batch. While the full lineup is detailed in product photos, several standout releases have already been listed by retailers, giving collectors a closer look at what’s coming.

Herberth Motorsport’s Spa 24-Hour Effort

Among the highlights is a pair of 1:18 scale Porsche 911 GT3 R models from the legendary 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps in 2025. Herberth Motorsport entered two cars, numbers 91 and 92, and IXO is capturing both in miniature. Each model carries a recommended retail price of €79.95, with item numbers LEGT18-91SP25 and LEGT18-92SP25. These are detailed replicas of the actual race cars that competed in the flagship GT endurance event, making them a must for fans of the Spa classic.

Morris Schuring’s Rookie Title Campaign

Another notable release is the Morris Schuring #92 Porsche 911 GT3 R from the 2025 DTM season. Schuring, driving for the Manthey Junior Team, claimed the rookie title in his debut campaign. IXO is offering this race car in two scales: 1:18 at €99.95 (item MG-I-911-DTM-25-1892) and 1:43 at €39.95 (item MG-I-911-DTM-25-4392). This gives collectors flexibility—whether they prefer a large display piece or a compact addition to their collection.

Manthey Racing Collector Sets

For fans of Manthey Racing’s broader success, IXO has prepared two 1:43 scale collector sets. The first set, priced at €119.95 (item MG-I-911-DTM-25-4301-TC-SET3), assembles multiple models from the 2025 DTM campaign. The second set, at €79.90 (item MG-I-911-LM-43-CW-SET), focuses on the 2025 WEC season, where Manthey also competed with the 911 GT3 R. Each set tells a season-long story in miniature form.

Across the Scales

IXO’s August assortment covers all three core scales. The 1:64 range, while not highlighted in the retailer listings, is part of the official catalog and can be viewed on the IXO website. The mention of new tooling suggests that some castings are fresh, not just reissues, though the brand hasn’t specified which models benefit from the updated tooling. Collectors browsing the 1:64 range will find smaller, more affordable options, while 1:43 and 1:18 scales offer progressively higher detail.

Where to Find Them

These specific models are listed by retailers such as ck-modelcars, a major German dealer that has already served over 50,000 customers. The official IXO Models website also has a dedicated “New IXO Releases” section where the full August catalog can be browsed. As always, the brand advises checking product photos for exact specifications and item numbers, and contacting site sponsors or authorized retailers to place orders.

A Varied Assortment for Every Collector

IXO’s August announcements demonstrate the brand’s continued commitment to offering a wide range of scales and subjects at accessible price points. Whether you’re into endurance racing, DTM, or simply collecting well-executed die-cast models, this month’s releases have something to offer. The inclusion of newly tooled castings hints at future possibilities, but for now, the focus is on delivering these race replicas to collectors. The August assortment is now available for order through IXO’s network of retailers and its official website.

Brave Toys is rolling out four new magnetic building sets aimed at older kids and experienced builders, expanding the CONNETIX PRO line with themed packs that each offer four guided builds and a clever new connection system. The new CONNETIX PRO Build It 4 Ways packs follow last year’s launch of the CONNETIX PRO range and are designed to provide more advanced building experiences.

Four Themes, Four Builds Each

The CONNETIX PRO Build It 4 Ways packs arrive in four distinct themes: Animals, Creatures, Vehicles, and Flowers. Each set comes with PRO tiles—featuring ultra-strong magnets—and a metal tin that doubles as a building base and is easy to take on the go. The themed packs allow builders to focus on specific types of creations while also encouraging cross-pack mixing.

The Animals pack guides builders through creating an elephant, peacock, squirrel, and cat. The Creatures pack steps up the challenge with a scorpion, wasp, crab, and dragonfly. The Vehicles pack lets kids construct a digger, helicopter, jet ski, and plane. The Flowers pack rounds out the lineup with a tulip, rose, daisy, and orchid. Each pack includes a step-by-step guide to help builders complete the four featured models, though the open-ended nature of the tiles encourages experimentation beyond the instructions. The Toy Insider also notes that the Animals and Creatures packs allow kids ages 5 and up to assemble their own zoo, while the Vehicles and Flowers packs bring outdoor fun indoors.

Smart Spin Technology

The headline feature across all four packs is Smart Spin technology, which is also found in every product from the CONNETIX PRO range. The system uses magnets that rotate and self-align inside the tile, allowing builders to connect pieces at different angles. A satisfying click signals when two tiles lock into place. This flexible connection opens up new possibilities for movement, engineering, and open-ended design—especially for builders who want to experiment beyond flat, right-angle constructions. The rotating magnets enable connections at various angles, giving a tactile confirmation when tiles snap together.

Designed for Older Builders

The CONNETIX PRO range was first introduced last year, and the response from older kids and experienced builders was strong. Brea Brand, Co-Founder and CEO of CONNETIX, noted the enthusiasm in a statement:

“Following the launch of CONNETIX PRO last year, we saw incredible enthusiasm from older builders who were looking for more advanced ways to create, design, and experiment. The new PRO Build It 4 Ways packs expand on that excitement, offering more opportunities to challenge their skills, explore new ideas, and bring imagination to life. Featuring our innovative Smart Spin technology, these packs introduce new possibilities for movement, engineering, and open-ended design. Whether following the guided builds or creating something entirely original, they inspire confidence to construct freely and turn even the most ambitious ideas into reality.”

The sets are recommended for ages 5 and up, making them a step up from simpler magnetic tile kits while still accessible to motivated younger builders. The guided builds provide a structured starting point, but the advanced magnet system and open-ended design encourage builders to create their own original structures.

Travel-Ready and Storage-Friendly

Each pack comes in a sturdy tin that serves a dual purpose: it keeps the tiles and pieces organized during storage and doubles as a stable base plate for building. The compact design makes it easy to bring the sets on car trips, to playdates, or just to the living room floor. The tins are described as travel-ready, and the built-in base functionality adds convenience for on-the-go building sessions.

Availability

The CONNETIX PRO Build It 4 Ways packs are slated to launch later this month (September 2026). For more details on the full CONNETIX PRO range, including additional sets and accessories, visit connetixtiles.com.

RC racers looking to shave every possible gram off their builds have two fresh options hitting the market. Both R1 Wurks and JConcepts have released new titanium screws designed for high-performance vehicles, offering weight savings and a bit of style under the body clips.

R1 Wurks Goes for the Drivetrain

First up is a new top shaft screw from R1 Wurks, built specifically for the company’s R1B buggy and sold under part number #920346. This is no ordinary fastener — R1 Wurks manufactures the screw in-house on a Swiss lathe, using Grade 5 titanium (Ti-6Al-4V).

The result is a claimed 58.2% weight reduction compared to the stock steel screw. At just 1.520 grams, the titanium version is described as ultra-lightweight, and the company says it reduces inertial forces for quicker acceleration. The screw also features cold-formed threads, which R1 Wurks states improve grain structure and increase material hardness.

It’s a direct-fit replacement, meaning no modifications are needed for installation. Each package contains one screw, and the price is set at $15.99. You can find it at R1Wurks.com.

JConcepts Brings the Top Hat LP

Meanwhile, JConcepts has launched its Top Hat LP JHCS titanium screws, a lineup that covers a broad range of lengths and two color options for 1:10 scale on-road and off-road vehicles.

The “Top Hat” name comes from the screw’s unique hex-head design, which JConcepts says was developed during the 2021 racing season and tested extensively. The LP, or low-profile, style features a 6.75mm head diameter that spreads the clamping load over a larger surface, often eliminating the need for washers. The design was reportedly influenced by newer kit releases from Team Associated and other manufacturers that use larger-diameter head screws.

JConcepts offers these screws in burnt blue and stealth black anodizing, with silver highlighting. They are available in lengths from 6mm to 22mm, covering uses from motor mounts to wing mounts and general chassis assembly. The screws have been used on builds by noted drivers Ryan Maifield, Spencer Rivkin, Paul Wynn, and Jason Ruona.

Each pack contains four screws of a single length and color. The retail price is $18.00, with a MAP (minimum advertised price) of $15.30. Here’s the full range of available SKUs:

• 3x6mm: burnt blue (#5358-1) or stealth black (#5358-2)
• 3x8mm: burnt blue (#5359-1) or stealth black (#5359-2)
• 3x10mm: burnt blue (#5360-1) or stealth black (#5360-2)
• 3x12mm: burnt blue (#5361-1) or stealth black (#5361-2)
• 3x14mm: burnt blue (#5362-1) or stealth black (#5362-2)
• 3x16mm: burnt blue (#5363-1) or stealth black (#5363-2)
• 3x18mm: burnt blue (#5364-1) or stealth black (#5364-2)
• 3x20mm: burnt blue (#5365-1) or stealth black (#5365-2)
• 3x22mm: burnt blue (#5366-1) or stealth black (#5366-2)

All fit a 3mm large-flange (6.75mm) JHCS head screw pattern. JConcepts backs the product with customer service and notes it is developed by professionals.

Two Paths to the Same Goal

Both products aim at the same target: reducing rotating and unsprung mass on RC race cars. R1 Wurks focuses on a single critical drivetrain part, while JConcepts gives builders a wide range of options for fastening throughout the vehicle. Whether you’re upgrading a slipper clutch or replacing hardware all around, titanium is clearly the material of choice for weight-conscious racers.

For more information, visit R1Wurks.com or JConcepts.net.

Kyosho has released a new action video showcasing the First MINI-Z Knight Rider model, bringing the iconic 1980s TV car to the palm of your hand. The 1/28 scale radio-controlled replica of the Knight 2000 (K.I.T.T.) is the latest addition to Kyosho’s beginner-friendly First MINI-Z line, and the video gives a first look at its features and performance.

The model faithfully recreates the Knight 2000’s all-black body, complete with the signature flashing red scanner at the front and a futuristic digital cockpit. As described in the product materials, the car was equipped with a molecularly bonded shell and Turbo Boost in the show, but the RC version focuses on drivability and scale appearance. The body is pre-painted with decals applied and shares the same size and mounting format as the advanced Mini-Z Racer series.

Ready to Drive Out of the Box

The First MINI-Z Knight Rider comes pre-assembled with a display-standard body. Just add four AA alkaline batteries (two for the chassis, two for the transmitter) and you’re ready to roll. The kit includes the main unit, a 2.4GHz controller with built-in stopwatch, six mini pylons for setting up a home course, a trim adjuster, and a battery holder.

Two Speed Modes for Beginners and Pros

Kyosho’s “New Real Drive Mechanism” provides proportional steering and throttle control, just like a real car. The controller allows you to switch between two speed modes with a single touch:

• Training Mode (Low): 7 km/h for careful, controlled driving.
• Race Mode (High): 10 km/h for thrilling high-speed action.

This makes the car suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced hobbyists looking for a fun, small-scale RC experience. The Real Drive System balances the torque of the torsion spring for neutral steering with the steering motor’s torque, creating a more refined feel than typical toy RC cars.

Time Attack at Home

The controller features an industry-first stopwatch that can time laps up to 99.99 seconds. Use the included pylons to create a custom course and challenge yourself to beat your best times. The 2.4GHz frequency also allows up to 12 cars to race simultaneously, so you can invite friends for head-to-head competition.

Technical Specs

The First MINI-Z Knight Rider measures approximately L175 x D76 x H45 mm and weighs about 112 grams. The 130-class motor provides enough power for indoor driving, with a continuous running time of roughly 60 minutes on fresh alkaline batteries. The operational range is about 30 meters. The package weighs about 442 grams and is sized W215 x H225 x D115 mm.

The First MINI-Z Secrets

Kyosho highlights several engineering details that set the First MINI-Z apart from toy-grade RC cars:

• High-Grip Rubber Tires: Suitable for both hardwood floors and carpets.
• Front Suspension: A single shock-spring setup compensates for small bumps, supporting light and nimble handling.
• Rear Suspension: Leaf-type suspension with a plastic T-bar, shared with the Mini-Z Racer, provides ride stability.
• Battery Replacement: The two AA batteries can be swapped without removing the body.
• Scale Speed: The model achieves a claimed scale speed of 280 km/h.

Part of a Growing Family

The Knight Rider model joins the First MINI-Z series, which already includes Initial D cars such as the Toyota Sprinter Trueno AE86, Mazda Savanna RX-7 FC3S, and Mazda RX-7 FD3S. Kyosho has also released a Team Pack that bundles two Initial D cars with a 3x2m EasyLap racing track for instant head-to-head racing. The entire First MINI-Z line is compatible with optional high-performance tires from the advanced Mini-Z series.

Pricing and Availability

The Kyosho First MINI-Z Knight Rider is available now at KyoshoAmerica.com under item number #66615 for $49.41. The recommended age is 14 years and older. With its affordable price, ready-to-run design, and iconic TV car styling, the First MINI-Z Knight Rider is a compelling entry point for anyone looking to dive into real radio control.

The large-scale sculptures and art cars built for Burning Man don’t simply disappear after the event. This September, several of them will be featured at Maker Faire Bay Area, held on Mare Island from September 25–27.

The Burning Man Project noted earlier this year:

“Burning Man and the global maker movement are inextricably intertwined. Both welcome beginners and experts alike, while fostering a communal, hands-on approach to building tangible objects that become works of art, helpful structures, and engineered wonders.”

Many of these pieces are built with support from Burning Man’s Honorarium program and often spend months or years in workshops before being transported to the playa. Increasingly, they find audiences at Maker Faires around the world. This year’s Bay Area edition marks the 20th anniversary of the very first Maker Faire and will showcase several standout creations. The 2024 edition drew 27,000 visitors and featured 350 maker exhibits, along with performances and hands-on activities. The event is produced by Make: magazine, which launched the first Maker Faire in 2006.

Art on Display

Duane Flatmo of Eureka, California brings El Pulpo Magnifico, a fire-breathing kinetic sculpture constructed from reclaimed metal objects. Flatmo’s earlier version, El Pulpo Mechanico, was built from salvaged aluminum and household items. Flatmo’s contributions to kinetic art are so respected that an alley in his hometown now bears his name. The fiery beast will be on Mare Island September 25–27.

Tree of Photon, by visual artist, designer, engineer, and architect Artur Grycuk—the first Polish artist to receive a Burning Man honorarium—aims to express the fusion of technology and nature. The installation uses photons to symbolize the invisible energies connecting all life, and it seeks to bridge human touch and technological response. After its run on the playa, Tree of Photon will anchor the Dark Room on Mare Island, a dedicated space for low-light, immersive art.

Last year’s Maker Faire featured Aquatica, a glowing kelp tree by Anna Gribovsky that sprouted jellyfish-shaped lanterns with fiber optic tentacles, lit by over 800 LEDs. This year, attendees can also see Flash the Tortoise, a 2002 Gem Car converted into a moving, illuminated tortoise with a custom aluminum frame, lithium battery pack, and vacuum-formed HDPE panels. Flash is the offspring of Sepia Lux, a giant mobile cuttlefish art car that took 20 months to build. Sepia Lux was constructed on a 23-foot chassis derived from a Polaris General side-by-side ATV, with inflatable fins that undulate along its sides and adjustable lighting.

Nebula Rider, by New York artist Adrian Landon, is a stainless-steel equine sculpture with a mirrored reflective surface by day and color-changing LED illumination at night. Landon first exhibited a mechanical horse at World Maker Faire New York in 2015. He later improved his understanding of horse biomechanics through honorarium-funded projects, including Wings of Glory in 2019. This year, Landon received another honorarium grant for The Sound of Time.

Mare Island Co. is also presenting Farmer the Rigger by Zulu Heru—a massive 9,000-pound, 21-foot-tall metal mask forged as a guardian spirit for creative spaces. Heru, a crane operator, sees the piece as a symbol of his own transformation from farmer to rigger to artist. The historic Mare Island Naval Shipyard, located along the scenic Napa River, provides a symbolic location for this work.

Rounding out the lineup, Project Empire blends art-car mastery, avant-garde costuming, and performance art from the teams behind The Golden Mean and The Serpent Twins, both previous Maker Faire crowd-pleasers.

Maker Faire Bay Area takes place at the Historic Mare Island Shipyard in Vallejo, California. The official Call for Makers remains open and includes categories such as Interactive Art & Installations, Robotics & Physical AI, and Woodworking & Metalworking. Gates open Friday, September 25, and run through Sunday, September 27. Advanced tickets are available at a 20% discount.

Months after giving the RC world a sneak peek at the 2026 GT Show in Suzhou, HPI Racing has officially pulled the wraps off the new platforms it displayed at the event. The company recently recapped its time at China’s largest modified car expo and, more importantly, made full details of the teased vehicles public.

A Massive Show for a Big Reveal

The 2026 GT Show took place from March 27 to 29 at the Suzhou International Expo Centre in the Suzhou Industrial Park. Organizers reported a 120,000-square-meter exhibition area hosting over 450 exhibitors and more than 1,000 global tuning brands. The event wasn’t just about full-size cars—it covered everything from core modification components and camping gear to vehicle models and derivatives, making it a natural stage for a radio-control brand like HPI to draw attention from both auto enthusiasts and RC hobbyists.

HPI was among the exhibitors, and it brought along a collection of upcoming platforms. At the time, the company could only offer glimpses. Now, those platforms are fully revealed.

“A few months ago we had the pleasure of attending the 2026 GT Show in Suzhou, showing sneak peaks at all our up-and-coming HPI platforms. Now with everything released, we can finally show off everything we displayed at the event in all their glory!” — HPI Racing

What’s New from HPI

While the exact lineup of platforms shown at the GT Show hasn’t been itemized in a single list, HPI’s official news page is now packed with product pages that reflect the company’s recent development push. Among the latest releases are:

• Nano-TTR Track Mats – A neoprene mat collection with additional obstacles and barriers, letting builders create endless custom circuits for the popular micro-scale platform.
• Porsche and Toyota Clear Bodyshells – Official licensed shells are returning to the HPI lineup, including models like the 2012 Porsche and the Toyota Hilux-bodied Venture18, alongside new Toyota GR Supra and Ford Mustang drift shells.
• Venture18 Upgrades – A range of premium aluminum and brass parts designed to improve durability, weight distribution, and performance on the 4WD crawler.
• Comp Crawler Chassis – A new carbon-fiber competition crawler chassis (part no. 161445) aimed at serious scaler and rock-crawling enthusiasts.
• HD Steel Center Drive – An upgraded drivetrain component (part no. 161442) for those looking to strengthen their rig’s transmission.

These additions suggest HPI is covering multiple segments: micro-racing, drift, scale crawling, and competition crawler builds. The Comp Crawler Chassis and HD Steel Center Drive in particular appear to be part of a dedicated competition-focused platform that HPI has been quietly developing.

Where to Find the Full Details

HPI Racing has posted the GT Show recap and links to the newly released products on its official website. Enthusiasts can visit HPIRacing.com to browse the full specs, pre-order options, and availability for each platform. The company also shared a video recap of its time at the Suzhou event, giving viewers a closer look at the booth and the vehicles that were on display.

With the 2026 GT Show now in the rearview mirror, HPI has delivered on the promise of those early teases. For builders and collectors who want to see what the brand has been working on, the complete catalog is finally out in the open.

The purple-and-pink unicorn that took Monster Jam by storm is now small enough to fit in your backpack. Team Losi Racing has launched the Mini LMT Sparkle Smash™ 4X4 Monster Jam™ Truck, a fully ready-to-run 1/18-scale RC version of the fan-favorite full-size truck.

From Diecast to 12,000 Pounds to 1/18 Scale

Sparkle Smash started life as a diecast collector’s item, but overwhelming demand pushed it into the big leagues in 2024 when it became a real, 12,000-pound Monster Jam truck. Now it’s back in miniature form — this time as an officially licensed, injection-molded polycarbonate body packed with hand-painted flexible rubber parts for the mane, ears, horn, and tail. A driver insert inside the cab completes the look.

Built on Proven LMT Bones

Underneath that colorful shell, the Mini LMT Sparkle Smash rides on the same solid-axle platform that made the Losi LMT line a hit. The 4X4 drivetrain uses metal front and rear differentials, a center spool, and metal driveline yokes. Suspension duties fall to threaded oil-filled shocks, a two-position wheelie bar, sway bars, and 6mm tapered aluminum links that step down to 4mm at the ends. The chassis plates are 1.5mm powder-coated 6061-T6 aluminum.

Power comes from an oversized 25T 380 brushed motor paired with a Spektrum 25A 2-in-1 ESC/receiver. The ESC includes a freestyle throttle profile that can be switched for instant brake and reverse — perfect for two-wheel skills and backflips.

Everything in the Box, Nothing Else Needed

Losi is marketing this as a true ready-to-run package. The box includes a Spektrum SLT2 2.4GHz radio with a throttle-limiting switch (50%/75%/100%), a Spektrum SX108 micro digital metal gear servo, a Spektrum Smart G2 810mAh 2S LiPo battery, and a Spektrum Smart G2 USB-C LiPo charger. The battery automatically communicates its charging parameters to the charger — just plug in and go. You’ll need your own USB-C power adapter with QC 2.0/3.0 18W+.

Other standout features: a removable twist-lock composite cage for easy battery swaps, elastomer battery straps, full ball bearings, and BKT officially licensed tires with a chevron tread pattern. A full line of option parts is available for those who want to customize.

Limited-Time Offer

Losi is offering a free limited-edition Sparkle Smash keychain to early buyers, while supplies last. The Mini LMT Sparkle Smash is listed at $249.99 (part number LOS01026T5) and is available now at TLRacing.com.

The Real Truck’s Legacy

Sparkle Smash is driven by an all-female team and is described by Monster Jam as a “six-ton unicorn with a bold attitude.” The full-size truck made its debut on the biggest motorsports stages in 2024 and has since inspired a wave of merchandise, including apparel, diecasts, plush, and now a 1/15-scale R/C model. The Mini LMT version brings that same energy to any surface — from baseball diamonds and concrete driveways to living-room ramps made of soup cans and cardboard.

For Monster Jam fans, new RC hobbyists, or anyone who wants to pilot a purple unicorn without the 12,000-pound insurance bill, the Losi Mini LMT Sparkle Smash is a turnkey ticket to freestyle fun.

Team Associated has reached back into its racing archives to bring out a drivetrain that hasn’t been seen in a production buggy for decades. The newly announced RC10 Jay Halsey Chain Drive 4WD is a 1:10 scale off-road electric kit that swaps the usual belt or shaft for a heavy-duty stainless steel chain—a direct nod to the experimental four-wheel-drive buggy Jay Halsey drove at the very first IFMAR Off-Road World Championships in 1985.

A Second-Place Finish That Made History

Back in Del Mar, California, Halsey had already won the 2WD World Championship that day with his RC10. Then he climbed into a prototype chain-driven 4WD buggy that Team Associated had built to test the limits of four-wheel traction. He drove it to a second-place overall finish, proving the potential of the design. Despite that impressive result, Team Associated never put the chain-drive 4WD into production—until now.

This new kit isn’t an exact replica of Halsey’s race car, but it intentionally captures the spirit of that prototype. It combines the proven vintage RC10 4WD platform with short-arm suspension and the nostalgic chain drivetrain that made the original so memorable.

What’s in the Box

The kit is built around a classic gold anodized aluminum chassis and includes a host of new and upgraded parts:

• Stainless steel heavy-duty chain with hardened sprocket gears and an adjustable chain tension system
• Carbon fiber chain separator to keep everything running smoothly
• Front CVA axles and tapered front dog bones
• Wide front hex wheels and tires
• Worlds-style steering bellcranks
• Long-travel, fluid-filled anodized aluminum coil-over shocks
• Sealed 3-gear Stealth A.T.C. transmissions with high-torque ball differentials front and rear
• RC10 Classic Protech body and a Jay Halsey-style clear wing
• Clear driver figure included
• Full ball bearings throughout

It also features hardened driveshafts and dogbones, heavy-duty turnbuckles, and compatibility with both 6-cell NiMH and 2S LiPo battery packs. The chassis promises exceptional ground clearance with a low center of gravity, keeping the look and feel of the 1980s race buggy while incorporating modern engineering.

Everything You Need to Know

This is a kit—assembly is required, and you’ll need to supply your own motor, servo, receiver, radio system, battery, and paint. The scale is 1:10, with a length of 381 mm (15 in), width of 226.8 mm (8.93 in), and wheelbase of 267.7 mm (10.54 in).

The official part number is #6056. The price is reported as $459.99 by RC Car Action and $459 by Big Squid RC.

A Complete 4WD Package, No Conversion Needed

For years, RC10 fans who wanted a four-wheel-drive buggy had to piece together conversion kits and hunt for rare parts. Team Associated has now released several RC10 4WD variants, including a belt-drive version and a Team Car kit, but the Chain Drive Edition stands apart with its drivetrain and vintage styling. It’s the first time the company has offered a production RC10 4WD with a chain in the box, directly inspired by the prototype that almost won the 1985 Worlds.

The RC10 Jay Halsey Chain Drive 4WD kit is a tribute to the prototype that Jay Halsey drove to a second-place finish at the 1985 IFMAR World Championships. The kit requires assembly, painting, and the addition of a motor, servo, radio system, and battery.