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  • J&T Bearing’s Titanium Slipper Screw Lightens the AE 7 Series Drivetrain

    J&T Bearing’s Titanium Slipper Screw Lightens the AE 7 Series Drivetrain

    Every gram counts in competitive RC racing, and J&T Bearing Company has a new upgrade for Team Associated’s AE 7 Series that targets one of the most critical rotating masses on the car.

    The J&T Lightweight Titanium AE RC10B7.1 Slipper Screw is machined from 6Al-4V titanium, a material known for its strength-to-weight ratio. The company says the screw is designed to reduce weight and provide quicker acceleration, and it’s a quick and easy way to lower rotating weight, lower the center of gravity, and ultimately lower lap times.

    Specs and Pricing

    The screw features a broached 2mm hex head, making it easy to adjust the slipper clutch even with the motor fan installed. Each purchase includes one lightweight titanium slipper screw. The part is priced at $13.99 and is available through ProMotionRC.com, the official J&T Bearing distributor.

    How It Compares to Other Titanium Options

    J&T Bearing isn’t the only company offering a titanium slipper screw for Team Associated’s B7-series cars. Several aftermarket brands have jumped into the same gap with similar products, giving racers a range of choices.

    Avid RC sells a B7 Titanium Slipper Screw V2 that it calls “one of the world’s lightest,” weighing in at just 1.22 grams. That’s a 69% reduction compared to the kit’s steel screw, which weighs 3.95 grams. Avid’s version is also made from billet 6Al-4V titanium and uses a 2mm hex head. It is listed as an upgrade part for ASC92448 and ASC92449 and fits the B7.

    Exotek Racing offers a B7.1 Top Shaft Screw (part number 2225) that weighs about 2 grams — roughly half the weight of the stock screw. Exotek’s screw is polished titanium and allows counter-holding with a 2mm hex driver on the slipper side for precise tuning. It fits the stock laydown top shaft and slipper of the B7 series without modification, and is suitable for the Team Associated RC10B7.1 and B7.1D.

    Performance Claims

    All three products share the same fundamental goal: reducing rotating mass inside the transmission. A lighter slipper screw means the motor has to spin up less inertia, which can translate into snappier acceleration and a lower center of gravity. Exotek claims its screw results in “noticeably more agile acceleration and reduced load on the motor.” Avid RC emphasizes the weight savings and easier slipper adjustment. J&T Bearing points to quicker acceleration and lower lap times.

    Availability

    The J&T Bearing Titanium Slipper Screw is available now for $13.99 through ProMotionRC.com. Avid RC’s B7 Titanium Slipper Screw V2 and Exotek’s B7.1 Top Shaft Screw are also widely available through their respective distributors and retailers.

    For racers looking to shave a few grams off the drivetrain and improve throttle response, any of these titanium screws provide a straightforward, drop-in upgrade for the AE 7 Series.

  • KK Scale Adds Ferrari 328, Maserati Quattroporte, and Nissan Skyline R34 to Its 1/18 Lineup

    KK Scale Adds Ferrari 328, Maserati Quattroporte, and Nissan Skyline R34 to Its 1/18 Lineup

    Budget-friendly diecast brand KK Scale is rolling out a fresh batch of 1/18 scale model cars, and this time it’s a mix of Italian classics and Japanese performance icons. The lineup includes a Ferrari 328 GTS, a Maserati Quattroporte I, and several variations of the Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec. The rollout begins this month and stretches through August.

    Three New Kits on the Way

    KK Scale, known for offering detailed diecast models at accessible prices, is expanding its catalog with three distinct vehicle families. The first to hit shelves is the Ferrari, followed by the Maserati in July, and the Nissan models in August. While photos of the Ferrari and Maserati are available, images of the Nissan Skyline R34 options have not yet been uploaded — a sign that these are fresh off the press.

    Ferrari 328 GTS – June Release

    The Ferrari 328 GTS from 1985 arrives in Blue Metallic (product code KKDC180553). This iconic mid-engine V8 sports car is a staple of 1980s exotic design, and KK Scale is delivering it in a single color option for now. The model is expected to ship this month, making it the first of the trio to reach collectors.

    Maserati Quattroporte I – July Launch

    In July, KK Scale will release the Maserati Quattroporte I from 1965. This four-door luxury sedan comes in four color choices: Grey Metallic, Red Metallic, Dark Blue, and Light Blue Metallic. The product codes cover KKDC181511 through KKDC181514. The Quattroporte I is a historic model — the original grand-touring saloon from Maserati — and the multiple paint options give collectors some variety.

    Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec – August Arrival

    The biggest rollout comes in August with six variations of the Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec. KK Scale is producing both the V-Spec II and the V-Spec Nür versions, each available with either OEM rims or BBS rims. Colors include Blue Metallic (for the V-Spec II), Light Green Metallic (for the V-Spec Nür), and White (for the V-Spec II).

    Here’s the full breakdown of the Nissan Skyline R34 kits:

    • KKDC120211-1 – Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec II OEM rims, 2001, Blue Metallic
    • KKDC120212-1 – Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec II BBS rims, 2001, Blue Metallic
    • KKDC120213-1 – Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec Nür OEM rims, 2001, Light Green Metallic
    • KKDC120214-1 – Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec Nür BBS rims, 2001, Light Green Metallic
    • KKDC120211-2 – Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec II OEM rims, 2001, White
    • KKDC120212-2 – Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec II BBS rims, 2001, White

    No production photos have been released for these yet, but the product codes and color options are confirmed.

    Aftermarket Support Already Available

    For collectors planning to dress up the Ferrari 328, aftermarket wheel sets are already on sale. Retailers like Five Diecast and Little Bolide are listing a KK Scale 1/18 wheel and tyre set for the Ferrari 328 GTS/GTB (product code KKDCACC007). The set is priced at $34.95 (USD) or €16.16 (down from €17.95) and is made of metal with a silver finish. It’s a sign that KK Scale’s ecosystem is growing, with replacement and upgrade parts becoming available alongside the models.

    What’s Next

    KK Scale continues to focus on iconic cars from the 1960s through the early 2000s, keeping prices approachable while offering multiple variants. The Ferrari 328 GTS should be appearing in stores any day now, with the Maserati Quattroporte I following in July and the Nissan Skyline R34 V-Spec models landing in August. Watch for those Nissan production photos to drop closer to the release date.

  • AR Box Previews Porsche 992 GT3 R Model in Mandalika Race Livery for September Release

    AR Box Previews Porsche 992 GT3 R Model in Mandalika Race Livery for September Release

    Model car collectors have a new diecast replica to mark on their calendars. AR Box (Almost Reale) has unveiled its latest fully licensed model: the Porsche (992) GT3 R 2026 in the eye-catching Green Livery of the #911 Absolute Racing entry from the GT World Challenge Asia series. The model arrives in September 2026.

    Model Reveal

    The replica, cataloged as product number 640006021, depicts the car that competed at the Mandalika International Circuit in Indonesia earlier this season.

    Real-World Pedigree

    The Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) has been a strong contender since its debut at the start of 2023. According to Porsche Newsroom, the car has amassed over 500 race starts worldwide, with customer teams securing numerous victories and titles. In the past season alone, the GT3 R claimed the unofficial GT3 World Championship for manufacturers and swept all three GTD Pro classifications in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Porsche Motorsport has delivered 106 units of the current GT3 R to customer teams.

    For the 2026 season, Porsche introduced an optimized evolution of the GT3 R. Development began in August 2024, with testing at Weissach and circuits including Sebring, Paul Ricard, Spa-Francorchamps, and the Nürburgring Nordschleife. A competitive test in mid-April 2026 saw a test vehicle from Herberth Motorsport take second place overall in the Michelin 12H Spa-Francorchamps with drivers Laurin Heinrich, Ralf Bohn, and Alfred Renauer.

    The upgrades focus on suspension and aerodynamics, including louvres on the front wheel arches, a swan-neck rear wing with a Gurney flap, a fully enclosed underbody, and revised suspension kinematics. The 4.2-litre flat-six engine delivers up to 416 kW (565 PS) depending on Balance of Performance classification. The drivetrain remains largely unchanged. Porsche Motorsport also offers several option packages as standard ex-works, such as sensor, endurance, pit lane link, and camera packages.

    Project Manager Sebastian Golz explained: “Our focus for this update was on optimisation. Small changes can make a big difference when built on a solid, proven foundation.”

    Porsche Motorsport plans to offer around 60 update kits for existing 911 GT3 R vehicles at a unit price starting at €41,500 plus sales tax, allowing customer teams to upgrade their current cars.

    The model replicates the #911 Absolute Racing entry from the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia series. Team results show it scored a 2nd place finish at Mandalika and a 1st place at Sepang. Drivers Alessandro Ghiretti and Huang Ruohan shared the cockpit. Absolute Racing also fields a second car, #918, with drivers Klaus Bachler, Bastian Buus, and Vutthikorn Inthraphuvasak.

    Series Context

    GT World Challenge Asia is one of four continental legs of the GT World Challenge powered by AWS series. The 2026 global season features 10 registered manufacturers contesting 46 sprint and endurance races across 29 events. Two overall titles are at stake: the Manufacturers’ crown and the Customer Performance Award. The Asian season has visited Mandalika and Sepang, with upcoming rounds including a double header at Fuji in July and the finale at Shanghai.

    Availability

    Collectors can expect the Porsche (992) GT3 R 2026 GT World Challenge Asia Mandalika #911 – Green Livery model to ship in September 2026 under product number 640006021. Additional details on pricing and distribution are expected closer to release.

  • LEGO’s Creator 3‑in‑1 Gray Wolf Set Delivers Three Animals and a Clever New Eye Print

    LEGO’s Creator 3‑in‑1 Gray Wolf Set Delivers Three Animals and a Clever New Eye Print

    LEGO’s Creator 3‑in‑1 theme keeps hitting the sweet spot between value and ingenuity, and the June 2026 wave brings a standout: set 31393 Forest Animals: Gray Wolf. For US$49.99 (€49.99, £44.99, AU$89.99, CAD$69.99) you get 657 pieces and three completely different animal builds—a gray wolf, a falcon, and a raccoon. But the real talk in the hobby community is about a tiny printed element that could change how LEGO designs creature faces.

    A New Printed Eye Debuts

    The star of the show might be the new printed eye piece used on the wolf model. It’s a Bar 1L with Rounded End in blue, printed with a blue iris and black pupil. According to a detailed review on Jay’s Brick Blog, this element was first seen in set 75438 Yoda Bust, but that version is different. The blue variant here is exclusive to the Gray Wolf set—so far. The reviewer notes the subtle dome shape gives the wolf a remarkably lifelike, almost uncanny gaze, and predicts it could be a game-changer for future LEGO creatures, helping them avoid that “dead” look. The falcon and raccoon don’t use the new eye; the falcon gets a domed black 1×1 piece, which actually suits a bird of prey better.

    Three Builds, One Box

    The primary model is a gray wolf posed on a small rocky hill with olive green foliage and autumnal leaves. The wolf is highly posable—neck, jaw, tail, and hips all move—and the built-in hill lets you tilt the front legs up to create a howling stance. Designer Aaron Newman layered different shades of gray to suggest fur texture, from sleek areas to fluffier patches.

    Break it down and the same bricks turn into a falcon perched on a pedestal. Its wings articulate so you can pose it about to take flight. The reviewer admits birds aren’t their thing, but acknowledges the transformation from a four-legged mammal to a two-winged bird is impressive engineering.

    The real scene-stealer, though, is the raccoon. The reviewer calls it “so utterly cute and adorable” that it became their favorite model, possibly even better than the wolf. The raccoon is smaller and carries a small rotten pear (scavenged from a bin, presumably). Its face uses cascading rocky plates on each side—a masterful use of lines and colors at a tiny scale. You can tilt its head for extra charm.

    Specs and Availability

    The completed wolf measures over 15 cm (6 in.) tall, 14 cm (5.5 in.) long, and 6 cm (2.5 in.) wide. All three models share the same pieces—only one can be built at a time. The set is recommended for builders ages 8 and up. The LEGO Builder app provides 3D instructions, letting kids zoom, rotate, and track progress.

    Pricing varies by region: US$49.99, €49.99, £44.99, AU$89.99, CAD$69.99. The reviewer notes that in Australia, the set is a Kmart exclusive, but recommends buying direct from LEGO to earn Insider Points. In the US, it’s also available from Amazon.

    The set is part of the June 2026 Creator 3‑in‑1 wave and is available now at LEGO.com and most toy stores. For fans of animal builds, this box offers triple the display options without breaking the bank.

  • Traxxas Drops a Gray Aluminum Motor Plate and Gear Cover for Its Mini Lineup

    Traxxas Drops a Gray Aluminum Motor Plate and Gear Cover for Its Mini Lineup

    Traxxas just made it a whole lot easier to stiffen up the front end of your Mini truck. The company has released the Gray Aluminum Motor Plate and Gear Cover (part #TRA10769R) — a direct-replacement upgrade machined from 6061-T6 aluminum that adds serious rigidity under the hood without requiring any gearing changes.

    Tough as It Looks

    The motor plate itself is cut from 6061-T6 aluminum, a material known for its strength-to-weight ratio. Traxxas describes it as “tough 6061-T6 aluminum for unbeatable toughness,” and the part features a clean gray anodized finish that both looks good and resists wear. According to the official product description, the plate is designed for extreme action, handling high-speed runs and hard bashing with ease. The upgrade is aimed at owners who run their Mini Maxx, Mini XRT, Mini Slash, or Mini Rally VXL hard — whether that means high-speed strafing runs or repeated big-air landings.

    According to Amain Hobbies, which stocks the part and lists it as an “Optional Upgrade,” the aluminum design “provides increased rigidity to help maintain consistent gear mesh during hard acceleration and rough landings.” The reinforced structure helps keep the drivetrain aligned when pushing the truck to its limits.

    Gear Cover Included — and Required

    This isn’t just a motor plate swap — the kit includes a matching updated gear cover that replaces the standard plastic cover. The new cover is designed to work only with the aluminum motor plate, so you can’t reuse the old one. Traxxas makes that clear: “Aluminum motor plate requires installation of the included gear cover and will not work with the standard gear cover.”

    The gear cover itself adds protection for the drivetrain, sealing out debris and providing an extra layer of impact resistance. It’s a simple swap — the part is a direct drop-in fit for all Mini models — so you don’t need to cut, drill, or modify anything.

    Same Gearing, Better Performance

    One of the handiest features of this upgrade is that it keeps the full stock gearing range. You don’t have to change your pinion or spur gear, and you won’t lose any top speed or acceleration. The plate’s mounting holes and geometry match the stock part exactly, so installation is as simple as removing the old plate, sliding in the new one, and fitting the included gear cover. The anodized finish gives the front end a clean, polished appearance that stands up to regular use without fading or scratching easily.

    Related Aluminum Parts

    Traxxas also offers a Red Aluminum Gear Cover (part #10287) for the Maxx and Maxx Slash, machined from the same 6061-T6 aluminum with a brilliant anodized finish. That product is a gear cover only, without a matching motor plate.

    Availability

    The Gray Aluminum Motor Plate and Gear Cover (TRA10769R) is available now directly from Traxxas.com and from hobby retailers including Amain Hobbies and Mytobbies. Amain specifies that it fits the Mini Maxx, Mini XRT, Mini Slash, and Mini Rally VXL. Mytobbies, a brick-and-mortar shop based in Tampa Bay, also carries the part, describing it as “designed for extreme action.” The official announcement came on June 5, 2026.

    For Mini owners who want a stiffer, more protective drivetrain without messing with their gearing or spending hours on modifications, this is a drop-in solution that delivers exactly what it promises.

  • BBA Models Locks In a New 1:18 Bugatti Chiron Profilée—Sealed Resin, Nine Colors, Ultra-Limited Run

    BBA Models Locks In a New 1:18 Bugatti Chiron Profilée—Sealed Resin, Nine Colors, Ultra-Limited Run

    BBA Models is back with a new sealed resin replica, and this time it’s bringing the ultra-exclusive Bugatti Chiron Profilée down to 1:18 scale. The model is now available for preorder in a striking range of exterior colors, with most variants limited to just 20 pieces each.

    Nine Colors, Tiny Production Numbers

    The lineup includes nine exterior options: Atlantic Blue, Blue, Jaune (yellow), Panda, Blue with Carbon, Fairy Pink, Atlantic Blue with Carbon, Red Metallic with Carbon, and Matte Black. The Atlantic Blue variant is slightly more generous at 25 pieces, while every other finish is capped at 20 units. That kind of scarcity means collectors will want to move fast if a particular shade catches their eye.

    The model is crafted from resin and has a sealed body—no opening doors or hoods, but the trade-off is a clean, uninterrupted surface that can be painted and polished to a high gloss. Resin construction also allows for sharper panel lines and finer details than traditional diecast, which is why many high-end miniatures go this route.

    Pricing and Delivery

    BBA Models is asking around $500 CAD for the Chiron Profilée. Delivery is estimated for late June 2026, so the wait shouldn’t be too long if you order soon. The company has not announced a specific product ID yet, so collectors should watch BBA Models’ channels for the SKU once orders go live.

    The Real-Life Inspiration

    The real Bugatti Chiron Profilée occupies a unique spot in the Molsheim lineup. Originally conceived as a less radical alternative to the track-focused Pur Sport, the Profilée keeps the W16 engine but wears a more restrained aerodynamic package. According to MR Collection, an official licensee and supplier to Bugatti for international auto shows, the Profilée is “a one-of-a-kind member of the Chiron line-up envisioned as a less radical interpretation of the pur sport.” MR Collection notes that the sole example of the Profilée was auctioned in Paris on 1 February 2023, marking the last opportunity to acquire a brand-new W16 Bugatti directly from the Molsheim Atelier.

    That real-world rarity is exactly what makes a scale replica so appealing to collectors who can’t spend millions on the full-size car but still want a piece of Bugatti history on their shelf.

    How It Stacks Up Against Other 1:18 Bugatti Models

    BBA Models isn’t the only company producing a 1:18 Chiron Profilée. MR Collection, also offers the Profilée in 1:18 scale under product code BUG016A. Their version is hand-painted, polished, and built from resin, with the same sealed-body design. MR Collection’s model is available in finishes such as Argent Atlantique / Blue Royale Carbon and Silver Blue, and is listed by retailers including Mint Models and Autobarn Model. According to Autobarn Model, MR Collection’s production run for the Silver Blue variant is 499 units, making BBA Models’ 20-unit-per-color approach even more exclusive by comparison.

    MR Collection is also the official supplier of the 1:18 models of all Bugatti Veyron creations displayed in Bugatti’s Wall in Molsheim, underscoring their close relationship with the brand.

    Bottom Line for Collectors

    If you’re building a collection of modern hypercar replicas, the BBA Models Chiron Profilée offers a rare chance to grab a sealed resin model in a color that suits your taste—provided you decide quickly. With delivery pegged for late June 2026 and the Atlantic Blue variant being the only finish with more than 20 units, the other eight colors could vanish fast.

  • Autobots Model Channels the Koenigsegg CCGT in 1:64—Three Versions Due This August

    Autobots Model Channels the Koenigsegg CCGT in 1:64—Three Versions Due This August

    Autobots Model is giving the Koenigsegg CCGT the diecast treatment it deserves. The 1:64 scale miniature captures the shape of the Swedish one-off that was built for GT1 glory but never got to race. Three distinct versions will arrive late August 2026.

    Three Liveries, One Iconic Shape

    The lineup includes White #33, White #99, and a Red Bull edition. Which one collectors will fight over is anyone’s guess, but the Red Bull livery is a dead giveaway of the model’s racing inspiration. Autobots Model has not yet assigned a product number or announced pricing. Deliveries are slated for late August 2026.

    The Real CCGT: A Dream That Nearly Was

    The CCGT (GT1 Competition Coupe) was born from Koenigsegg’s ambition to take on the likes of the Aston Martin DC9, Chevrolet Corvette C6, and Ferrari 550 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In the late 2000s, the company built a one-off prototype using the CCX as a base. The CCGT used the same basic engine as the road-going CCX, but Koenigsegg enlarged it from 4.7 to 5.0 liters, relocated the superchargers, and achieved over 600 horsepower from the naturally aspirated V8. The car’s curb weight was below 2,425 pounds, making it a potential giant killer.

    The CCGT was constructed to comply with the GT1 regulations of its era, and Koenigsegg believed it would have been highly competitive. But the dream ended before it began. Two months after official FIA testing, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest changed the homologation requirements. The ACO increased the production requirement to 350 road-going cars per year, up from the original 20, and also prohibited carbon monocoque chassis—a direct blow to the CCGT’s design. Koenigsegg, a boutique builder, couldn’t meet those numbers. The project was abandoned, and the GT1 category ended altogether in 2011.

    The sole CCGT prototype changed hands at auction in early 2023 for $4.1 million, a remarkable price for a car that had never turned a competitive lap. Now that it qualifies for historic GT racing, the car has a second chance. In a 2023 video called “The Chase – Father & Sons,” Koenigsegg showed the CCGT carving corners alongside the Jesko Attack and the CC850, hinting that the new owner might finally put it on track.

    Koenigsegg hasn’t forgotten the CCGT’s legacy. According to The Supercar Blog, the company is planning a special edition hypercar called the CCGT+, limited to just 30 units, inspired by the original. It may be a track-focused version of the CC850, which was itself a homage to the CC8S unveiled in 2022.

    A Model That Taps into a Growing Legend

    For scale model collectors, the Autobots Model release arrives as the CCGT story continues to evolve. The real car exists only as a single prototype, making any replica a rare tribute. The three-livery approach—White #33, White #99, and Red Bull—gives buyers options. The Red Bull version is likely to be the most eye-catching with its bold branding.

    No pricing or preorder details are available yet. Autobots Model has stated that the product number is still “TBD.” Interested collectors should keep an eye on Autobots Model’s channels for the official launch.

    Deliveries are expected to begin late August 2026. Until then, the CCGT lives on—in metal, at 1:64 scale.

  • BBR Drops a Double: A 1:12 Ferrari SF26 and a Trio of Le Mans 499P Models

    BBR Drops a Double: A 1:12 Ferrari SF26 and a Trio of Le Mans 499P Models

    Italian resin-cast specialists BBR have just announced two fresh batches of race replicas that will have Ferrari collectors paying close attention. The lineup includes a 1:12 scale model of the Ferrari SF26 as it ran at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, alongside 1:18 scale versions of the Ferrari 499P cars that tackled the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans.

    A Bigger Scale for Hamilton’s First Win

    The headline act is the 1:12 sealed resin replica of the Ferrari SF26 — the car that carried Lewis Hamilton to his first victory in red at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on June 14, 2026. That race marked a milestone not just for the driver but for the team, which won its first race under the brand-new 2026 technical regulations featuring active aerodynamic wings and a shorter wheelbase.

    BBR hasn’t locked down an official release date yet, but the model will represent the car driven by Hamilton (product code BBR1229C16) alongside a version for teammate Charles Leclerc (product code BBR1229C44). According to retailer listings, this 1:12 scale edition includes a driver figure, leather base, and plexiglass display cover.

    BBR also offers the same Spanish GP car in 1:18 scale with both Styrofoam packaging and a Luxury Pack variant that adds a leatherette base and plexiglass cover. Retailers like Mint Models already list pre-orders for earlier 2026 season F1 cars, including the SF26 Chinese Grand Prix edition in 1:18 for both Leclerc and Hamilton, available with either Styrofoam or luxury packaging. The Chinese GP models represent the first race under the new regulations, held in March 2026 at the Shanghai International Circuit.

    The 2026 Le Mans Contenders

    On the endurance side, BBR will produce 1:18 scale replicas of the Ferrari 499P cars that raced at the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans. The lineup covers three entries: car #50, #51, and #83, with product codes P18283A through P18283C. A product listing on retailer livecarmodel.com already shows the #83 car — driven by Robert Kubica, Yifei Ye, and Philip Hanson — carrying an ETA of Q3–Q4 2027 and a list price of $549.95. The other two numbers are expected to follow, though their pricing and release windows have not been detailed.

    BBR has previously released a 1:18 scale model of the 2025 Le Mans-winning #83 499P, which secured Ferrari’s third consecutive victory at La Sarthe. That precedent suggests that the 2026 Le Mans series will receive similar detailing and presentation.

    What’s Already Out There

    This announcement comes alongside a growing catalog of Ferrari race replicas from BBR. Retailers like Mint Models already list pre-orders for earlier 2026 season F1 cars, such as the SF26 Chinese Grand Prix edition in 1:18 scale for both Leclerc and Hamilton, plus the Spanish GP edition in 1:12 scale. The company also continues to cover recent Ferrari victories, including the 2025 Le Mans-winning #83 499P. BBR’s catalog also includes special liveries from the 2025 season, such as the Miami GP special livery co-designed with HP, and the Monaco GP livery celebrating 75 years of partnership with Shell.

    What’s Next

    For now, BBR has not confirmed a specific on-sale date for either the 1:12 SF26 or the 1:18 499P Le Mans models. The retailer listing for the #83 499P shows an ETA of Q3–Q4 2027 and a price of $549.95, though that date originates from a retailer, not BBR itself. The other two Le Mans entries are expected to follow, with no pricing or release windows detailed yet.

  • RC4WD Shrinks the Mud: New 1.9-Inch Interco Super Swamper Tires Hit the Scale Trail

    RC4WD Shrinks the Mud: New 1.9-Inch Interco Super Swamper Tires Hit the Scale Trail

    Scale off-road fans who crave that chunky, no-nonsense mud-slinger look just got a fresh option. RC4WD has released the Interco Super Swamper TSL BIAS in a 1.9-inch scale format, bringing the iconic full-size tire’s aggressive tread pattern down to RC crawler and scaler size.

    GripTec Compound for Real Traction

    The new tires use RC4WD’s own GripTec compound, a softer red-colored rubber blend designed to maximize grip on rocks, dirt, and technical trails. The company describes GripTec as a softer compound engineered to improve traction and control, with enhanced flexibility that allows the tire to conform to terrain for better grip and smoother performance. RC4WD’s own tagline for the material reads:

    Griptec — where scale realism meets engineered performance. Every detail designed to grip, flex, and perform like the full-size original.

    Each tire is equipped with a foam insert to help maintain shape and provide realistic flex under the vehicle’s weight.

    Specs That Matter for Builders

    Each individual tire measures 4.64 inches (117.8 mm) in outer diameter, 1.24 inches (51.0 mm) in width, and has an inner diameter of 1.81 inches (46.0 mm). A single tire weighs 3.81 ounces (108 grams)—a substantial weight that adds to the planted feel on the trail. The package includes two tires, two foam inserts, and a sheet of Interco decals. For a complete four-wheel truck, builders will need to purchase two sets (four tires total), bringing the total tire cost to $61.98 at the per-pair price.

    Fitment and Purchase Details

    RC4WD is clear that these tires only fit 1.9-inch wheels. They are shown in promotional images mounted on RC4WD’s own American Racing 1.9-inch Outlaw II Super Deep Dish Beadlock wheels (part Z-W0131), but those wheels are sold separately. The company also notes that due to manufacturing differences, they can only guarantee compatibility with RC4WD wheels, though they may work with other brands.

    The part number is Z-T0074, and the retail price is set at $30.99 per pair. The tires are available directly from the RC4WD online store.

    Market Reception and Background

    Online listings and early user feedback indicate strong interest. On eBay, the tire has been described as the “tallest 1.9-inch tire to hit the market” for the scaler segment. User reviews on eBay praise the tire’s grip in mud and on rocks, as well as its realistic appearance. One reviewer noted the included foams are not the best but still acceptable. The tires also appear at German retailers such as D-Edition and Tamico, confirming European availability.

    The Bigger Picture

    RC4WD has been steadily expanding its scale tire lineup with realistic licensed patterns. The Interco Super Swamper TSL is a well-known name among full-size off-road enthusiasts, and bringing it to the 1.9-inch wheel size gives scaler modelers another authentic option. Whether you’re building a rock crawler, a trail truck, or just want that “ready to be buried in mud” stance, these tires deliver a dose of rugged scale realism.

    Availability: The Interco Super Swamper TSL BIAS 1.9-inch scale tires (Z-T0074) are available now from StoreRC4WD.com for $30.99 a pair.

  • MR Collection and Looksmart Offer Early Peek at Ferrari Luce and Lamborghini Manifesto Scale Models

    MR Collection and Looksmart Offer Early Peek at Ferrari Luce and Lamborghini Manifesto Scale Models

    Scale-model collectors have two fresh concepts to track. MR Collection is pushing ahead with a miniature version of Ferrari’s first all-electric car, the Luce, while sister brand Looksmart has just shown an initial model of the Lamborghini Manifesto concept.

    Early pre-production photos from MR Collection suggest the casting is moving toward a finished piece. The model will be offered in 1:18 scale, the Italian manufacturer’s specialty. The real Ferrari Luce was designed in collaboration with Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson at the creative collective LoveFrom, and the scale replica is intended to reflect that clean, refined design language.

    Ferrari Luce: Color Options and Limited Editions

    MR Collection has already listed the 1:18 Luce on its product page under multiple color variants. The official color lineup includes:

    • FE052A – Azzurro La Plata
    • FE052B – Giallo Luce
    • FE052C – Rosso Dino
    • FE052D – Bianco Artico
    • FE052E – Rosso Fiammante
    • FE052SE – Rosso Corsa (limited to 49 pieces)
    • FE052SE2 – Piano Black (limited to 49 pieces)

    The two limited editions, Rosso Corsa and Piano Black, are each capped at 49 units. Collectors looking to lock in a specific variant can place preorders through the Atelier MR Collection website.

    MR Collection is an official licensee and supplier for Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Bugatti. The company produces models for Ferrari’s Contact Plan — the exclusive service that creates 1:43 replicas matching the exact specifications of cars purchased by Ferrari customers — and its models are sold in Ferrari Stores worldwide. The brand is known for its highly detailed 1:18 scale creations, which typically include a high-end base and a transparent display case.

    Looksmart’s Lamborghini Manifesto in 1:43

    Looksmart, a sister brand under the MR Group umbrella, has unveiled its first look at the Lamborghini Manifesto concept in 1:43 scale. The product code is LS571A, and the initial color shown is Giallo Crius. As with the Luce, the listing marks the model as “Future production,” and preorder links are active on Looksmart’s official site.

    Looksmart’s product page for the Manifesto also notes that MR Group handles Ferrari Contact Plan work and supplies models to Ferrari Stores globally, reinforcing the close relationship between the two brands. The Looksmart lineup already includes dozens of Lamborghini models in 1:43, covering recent releases such as the Revuelto, Fenomeno, and Fenomeno Roadster, as well as numerous special editions.

    The Lamborghini Manifesto is a recent concept, and Looksmart is moving quickly to translate it into a small-scale collectible. The 1:43 format keeps it in line with the brand’s extensive catalog of supercar miniatures.

    Preorder and Production Status

    Both models are listed as “Future production” on their respective product pages, meaning final release dates have not yet been announced. Preorders are open now: the Ferrari Luce 1:18 through Atelier MR Collection, and the Lamborghini Manifesto 1:43 through Looksmart Models. Collectors can choose from multiple color options for the Luce, including the limited-edition variants, while the Manifesto is currently offered in Giallo Crius.

    MR Collection’s status as an official licensee for Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Bugatti adds a layer of authenticity to these releases. The company has a track record of producing officially licensed scale models for Ferrari’s Contact Plan and for sale at Ferrari Stores around the world. With preorders already live, collectors can secure their copies while waiting for further production updates.