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Factory Team, the tuning division of Team Associated, has announced a new 74mm front DCV set for the RC10B84 4WD race buggy. The set is part number #92566 and is priced at $59.49. It is available now at AssociatedElectronics.com/FactoryTeam. The announcement was made on August 20, 2026, and was covered by RC Car Action and Big Squid RC.

Official Factory Team Announcement

The official announcement from Factory Team includes the following details:

Factory Team introduces the new RC10B84 FT front DCV set, 74mm! This set comes with everything needed to assemble and install on your vehicle. Assembly is made simple by installing the two pins and using a retaining clip to hold the pins in place. The DCV system is a great tuning feature to achieve handling characteristics that cannot be easily replicated through other tuning features on your vehicle. The bones come with a black coat and visible laser etch to confirm you have the correct size. Pair this with a machine ground axle to get a great fit and finish that others will take notice of.

The set includes two pins, a retaining clip, and drive bones. The bones have a black coating and a visible laser etch. The laser etch confirms the correct bone size. Assembly involves installing the two pins and securing them with the retaining clip. The DCV system is a tuning feature that provides handling characteristics not easily replicated through other adjustments. Factory Team recommends using a machine-ground axle with these bones for optimal fit and finish. The set fits the RC10B84D, RC10B84, RC10B84 Classic, and RC10B84D Classic models. These are all 4WD race buggy kits from Team Associated.

Coverage from Big Squid RC

Big Squid RC also reported on the release. They describe the set as a great way to help dial in handling on the buggy. They note that installation is simple via a retainer clip over pins. They list the part number as #92566 and the price as $59 (rounding from $59.49). They confirm that the set is compatible with the RC10B84D, RC10B84, RC10B84 Classic, and RC10B84D Classic. The bones are 74mm with a black coat and visible laser etch. The set is designed for the front of the buggy.

Key Specifications

The Factory Team 74mm Front DCV Set (part #92566) has a price of $59.49. It is available now at AssociatedElectronics.com/FactoryTeam. The set includes everything needed for installation: two pins, a retaining clip, and drive bones. The bones are 74mm, black coated, and laser etched. The set fits four RC10B84 variants: RC10B84D, RC10B84, RC10B84 Classic, and RC10B84D Classic. The DCV tuning feature allows handling characteristics not possible through other adjustments. Factory Team recommends a machine-ground axle. The product was announced on August 20, 2026.

Why This Matters for RC Racers

For owners of the RC10B84 buggy, this DCV set provides a mechanical tuning option for the front driveline. The simple pin-and-clip installation allows quick changes at the track. The black coating and laser etch ensure correct sizing. The set is a direct purchase from Factory Team. The price is $59.49. The part number is #92566. The set is compatible with multiple RC10B84 models. The DCV system enhances handling in ways other tuning features cannot. Factory Team recommends a machine-ground axle.

Availability

The Factory Team 74mm Front DCV Set is part #92566, priced at $59.49. It fits the RC10B84D, RC10B84, RC10B84 Classic, and RC10B84D Classic. It includes pins, retaining clip, black-coated bones with laser etch. The DCV system offers unique handling characteristics. Factory Team recommends a machine-ground axle. It is available at AssociatedElectronics.com/FactoryTeam. The product was announced on August 20, 2026. It is available for immediate purchase. The set is a new product from Factory Team. It is designed for the RC10B84 4WD race buggy. The set is ready to ship now. Orders can be placed through the Factory Team website.

Maverick RC, the HPI Racing division known for affordable off-road machines, has just dropped a compact new crawler that’s anything but a toy. The Scout24 is a 1/24 scale, Ready-to-Run rock crawler available in both brushed and brushless (Flux) configurations, and it comes with a feature rarely seen at this size: a two-speed transmission.

Small But Serious

Don’t let the small footprint fool you. The Scout24 measures just 192mm long, 122mm wide, and 100mm tall, with a 135mm wheelbase, but it’s built to tackle real terrain. Oil-filled coilover shocks, a multi-link suspension system, and a triangulated chassis design aim to keep the rig composed over rocks, roots, and indoor obstacles. The shaft-driven 4WD drivetrain is ballraced throughout, and the chassis uses a high ground clearance layout for crawling performance.

Two-Speed Transmission

The standout feature is the two-speed transmission (described as a three-position transmission in the specs). This lets drivers switch between low-speed crawling and higher-speed trail running. On the brushed version, top speed is about 20 km/h (12.5 mph), while the Flux brushless variant bumps that up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph). That’s enough to cover ground quickly between technical sections.

Brushed vs. Brushless

Both versions come as complete RTR packages, but the brushless Flux models add a major bonus: four-wheel steering. The standard brushed Scout24 uses conventional front-only steering, but the Flux version gains rear steering capability, which dramatically improves maneuverability on tight trails. The brushed models use a 130 Brushed motor, while the Flux versions run a 1212 brushless motor. All models include a Maverick MTX-316 2.4GHz 6-channel transmitter and an MSRS-BR418 2-in-1 receiver/ESC.

Scale Details and Customization

Maverick has packed in plenty of scale touches. The body comes pre-painted in three color options — blue, red, and green — with a detailed interior, integrated LED lights, and a rugged nylon roll cage. Each Scout24 includes a mix-and-match set of decals so owners can personalize the look. The wheels are fitted with high-traction off-road tires, and the whole package looks just as good sitting on a shelf as it does crawling over rocks.

What’s in the Box?

Everything needed to run right out of the box is included: the Scout24 with its pre-installed electronics, a 7.4V 360mAh Li-Ion battery pack (JST-XH connector), and a 7.4V USB charger. The only extra items you’ll need are four AA batteries for the transmitter, and a LiPo charge case (HPI recommends its #160013 Plazma Pouch).

Pricing and Availability

Maverick RC has not announced a specific price, but the Scout24 is positioned as an affordable entry into scale crawling. Six SKUs are listed: three brushed versions (#151300 blue, #151301 red, #151302 green) and three Flux brushless versions (#151303 blue, #151304 red, #151305 green). For more details, visit HPIRacing.com.

The Scout24 looks like a strong contender for the micro-crawler segment, bringing a two-speed transmission and optional four-wheel steering to a tiny package that’s ready to run straight from the box.

HUDY has released a new accessory for the 1/10 scale Formula racing crowd: a composite front nose designed to work with the brand’s existing front wing. The part, listed as #293700-K, is a black composite nose piece that allows mounting of either the #293701 white wing or the #293701-K black wing.

Developed in collaboration with Ehrbar Engineering, the nose aims to deliver improved steering response and stability. HUDY highlights the following features for the new component:

• Outstanding steering response & stability
• Lightweight & super strong
• High-grade composite construction
• Perfect for asphalt & carpet
• Optimized for all traction conditions
• Fits most standard 1/10 Formula cars

What’s in the Box?

The announcement covers the nose piece itself; the front wing is sold separately. Racers who already own a HUDY 1/10 Formula Front Wing can pick up the black nose as a standalone upgrade. The wing is available in both white and black, while the nose currently comes only in black. The composite material is described as both lightweight and exceptionally strong, making it suitable for competitive use on both asphalt and carpet tracks.

Built for Real-World Racing

HUDY designed the nose to work across all traction conditions, from low-grip carpet to high-grip asphalt. The company states it fits most standard 1/10 Formula chassis, so it should be compatible with a wide range of platforms. The part was developed with Ehrbar Engineering, as noted in the product announcement, adding engineering expertise to the design.

About HUDY

HUDY is a Slovakian brand recognized for producing high-end RC tools and accessories. According to the official HUDY shop, all products are manufactured exclusively in Slovakia, Europe, using the latest technology CNC machines. The shop emphasizes: “We can prove the excellence and the high-quality of our materials and craftsmanship.” The brand’s product lineup is extensive, including setup systems, tools, starter boxes, comm lathes, tire truers, break-in benches, accessories, equipment, chem series, bags, and wear. The HUDY website also showcases categories such as Set-up Systems, Tools, Starter Boxes, Comm Lathes, Tire Truers, Break-in Bench, Accessories, Equipment, Chem Series, Bags, and Wear.

RC America, a distributor, describes HUDY as “known world-wide as the producer of high-end products for rc gas, rc electric, and slot cars,” noting that the brand’s “mark of excellence is the elegant HUDY design in combination with the high-end quality material.” HUDY also produces composite handle tools, such as Phillips screwdrivers, demonstrating their expertise in composite construction. The official HUDY shop lists specific screwdriver models with prices, including a Pt Phillips Screwdriver 5.0 X 120 mm (Screw 3.5 & M4) for €18.50, and a Phillips Screwdriver 5.0 X 120 mm / 18mm – V2 for €25.90.

Where to Get It

The #293700-K HUDY 1/10 Formula Front Nose is available now. For more details, visit the official HUDY website at Hudy.net. The product can also be found through distributors like RC America. The companion wings, #293701 (white) and #293701-K (black), are sold separately. The nose and wing together form a bolt-on upgrade for 1/10 Formula cars, with the nose available now as a separate part.

HUDY continues to expand its range of 1/10 Formula accessories, offering racers a dedicated upgrade path for improved steering response and stability on both asphalt and carpet surfaces.

MR Collection and its sister brand Looksmart have kicked off the week with a fresh wave of announcements, unveiling new scale model releases of the Lamborghini Revuelto SV and the Ferrari 12 Cilindri Manuale. The upcoming models are set to arrive in both 1:18 and 1:43 scales, offering collectors a range of striking exterior color and livery options.

The Lamborghini Revuelto SV Lineup

MR Collection will produce the Lamborghini Revuelto SV in 1:18 scale across seven distinct variants. The standard editions include liveries such as Rosso Efesto with Black / Bronze, Azzurro Tethys with Black / Red, Viola Pasifae with Black / Yellow, Giallo with Black / Red, and Arancio Apodis with Black / White. Two limited-edition versions, each capped at just 25 pieces, are also in the pipeline: the Grigio Telesto with Red / Black livery and the Bianco Siderale with Red / Black livery.

Over at Looksmart, the same supercar will be available in 1:43 scale, echoing many of the same color schemes. The 1:43 range includes seven variants, covering the same five standard liveries plus the Grigio Telesto and Bianco Siderale finishes, though these are not indicated as limited runs on the announced list.

The Ferrari 12 Cilindri Manuale

On the Ferrari side, MR Collection is offering the Ferrari 12 Cilindri Manuale in 1:18 scale with a roster of four standard paint options: Rubino Micalizzato, Alluminio Spazzolato, Nocciola Met, and Rosso Corsa. Two limited editions, also restricted to 25 pieces each, will feature Verde Zeltweg and Grigio Ingrid finishes.

Looksmart’s 1:43 scale versions of the Ferrari mirror the 1:18 lineup, including the Verde Zeltweg and Grigio Ingrid colors, providing a smaller-format alternative for collectors who prefer the more compact scale.

Across both scales and brands, a total of 26 model variants have been announced.

Official Connections and Background

The new announcements carry extra weight given the brands’ official relationships with the automotive giants. According to Looksmart’s product listings, MR Group serves as an official supplier for Lamborghini during major international car shows and world premieres. The group also produces models for the Lamborghini Contact Program, an exclusive service that crafts 1:18 scale replicas matching the exact specifications of cars purchased by Lamborghini customers.

Similarly, MR Collection is an official licensee and supplier for Ferrari, producing models for the Ferrari Contact Plan—a service that creates 1:43 scale models with the same colors and features as cars bought by Ferrari clientele. MR Collection models are also sold in Ferrari Stores worldwide. The company’s official website notes that it is an official licensee and supplier for Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Bugatti.

The real-world Lamborghini Revuelto, unveiled just before the marque’s 60th anniversary, is notable as the brand’s first HPEV (High Performance Electrified Vehicle) hybrid super sports car. Its powertrain delivers a combined 1015 CV, pairing a new V12 internal combustion engine with three electric motors. The Ferrari 12 Cilindri, meanwhile, produces 830 cv with a maximum engine speed of 9,500 rpm, and draws stylistic inspiration from the Gran Turismo cars of the 1950s and 1960s.

What Comes Next

At this stage, MR Collection and Looksmart have not disclosed specific release dates or pricing for the newly announced models. Collectors will need to keep a close eye on both brands’ official channels for pre-order windows and final allocation details. The limited-edition variants are capped at just 25 pieces each.

Bugatti Destrier Model Confirmed: MR Collection and Looksmart Team Up

Hot on the heels of the real car’s debut at Monterey Car Week, MR Collection has confirmed it will produce a 1:18 scale resin model of the Bugatti Destrier in its launch color, Sapphire Celeste. The sealed resin replica will be joined by a 1:43 scale version from sister brand Looksmart, giving collectors two ways to add this ultra-exclusive hypercar to their shelves.

The Destrier is the third one-of-one creation from Bugatti’s Solitaire programme, based on the extreme Bolide track machine but stripped of wings and vents for a pure sculptural look. It was unveiled during Monterey Car Week, culminating at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 16, 2026. The real car stands just one meter tall and rides on 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, a significant step up from the Bolide’s 18-inch items.

“Destrier is not a car you understand with your head, it is a car you feel with your heart,” said Frank Heyl, Bugatti’s Director of Design, in a press release. The Bolide’s quad-turbo 8.0-liter W16 producing 1,600 PS remains under the hood, but the story here is proportion and craftsmanship rather than outright performance.

MR Collection’s model will capture the Sapphire Celeste exterior, a bespoke multi-layered blue with diamond-inspired sparkle, along with the polished aluminum brightwork and hammered-finish components that echo medieval armor. The 1:18 resin piece (product code BUG022) is expected to be a sealed model, a common format for high-end diecast replicas. Looksmart, an official licensee of Bugatti and other luxury brands, will handle the smaller 1:43 scale version (product code LS583). No release dates have been announced for either model.

The Destrier’s design introduces a fresh chapter in Bugatti’s vocabulary. The signature C-line “breathes” – pausing just before the front wheel well, allowing bare bodywork to show through before resuming to intersect with the horseshoe grille. At the rear, a blended wing echoes the Chiron Profilée, closing the silhouette with quiet grace. A hand-laser-engraved dedication plate above the windscreen depicts both the Type 57G Tank and Type 57SC Atlantic, connecting Destrier to Bugatti’s Le Mans-winning and design heritage.

The Sapphire Celeste color carries a historical echo: the celebrated “Pope” Type 57SC Atlantic originally wore blue before being repainted black. The car’s exposed carbon fiber, limited to the front splitter and rear diffuser, has been tinted to complement the blue precisely. Inside, the cabin features “Ambre Voyageur” leather and nubuck, plus a 3D-knitted textile with copper yarns, all crafted for its single owner. Model collectors will likely see these details reflected in the 1:18 and 1:43 replicas.

More from MR Collection: Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster Limited Edition

In the same announcement, MR Collection unveiled a limited edition of five Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster models in Bianco Phanes exterior. The 1:18 scale special edition (product code LAMBO039AT9) joins MR Collection’s existing lineup of Lamborghini replicas, which includes other limited runs. The SVJ Roadster itself was first shown at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show and produced by Lamborghini in a limited series of only 800 units. MR Collection is an official licensee of Lamborghini.

Collectors eager to add the Destrier or the special-edition Aventador will need to wait for further details. MR Collection and Looksmart have not yet set a timeline for availability or pricing.

FMS has officially pulled the wraps off its latest scale rig, and this time it’s a slice of Americana: the FCX18 II Ford F-100. The new 1:18 scale ready-to-run rock crawler is built on the company’s second-generation low-center-of-gravity (LCG) chassis and brings the classic 1960s pickup to the RC trail in fine detail.

Licensed Looks, Hard Body Construction

Authorized by Ford Motor Company, the F-100 body is a durable hard-shell replica that FMS says meticulously captures the original vehicle’s proportions and design lines. It’s not just a shell — the model includes a fully molded scale interior with mirrors, a steering wheel, and textured seats. Factory-installed lighting includes headlights, taillights, turn signals, and roof-mounted spotlights, all individually controllable through the transmitter with linked lighting functions. Hidden wiring runs inside the body and chassis, keeping the look clean and making customization easier.

FCX18 II Chassis: Low CG, Magnetic Body

The heart of this truck is the FCX18 II platform, which features a sunken motor and transmission layout to lower the overall center of gravity. That design, combined with the new magnetic quick-release body system, aims to improve climbing stability and reduce rollover risk on technical terrain. The body is held by 11 high-strength magnets and can be swapped in about two seconds — no tools required. The magnetic interface also automatically powers the body-mounted lighting system, so there’s no need to unplug wires during battery changes or maintenance.

Power and Drivetrain

Under the hood, the F-100 runs a full-time 4WD drivetrain with a high-performance 180 brushed motor mounted at the front of the chassis for consistent power delivery. A 2-in-1 brushed motor and ESC system with selectable switching function makes replacement and upgrades straightforward. The truck features a two-speed transmission — low gear for torque-heavy crawling and steep climbs, high gear for faster trail driving. Metal components are used throughout the chassis: frame rails, suspension links, steering rods, oil-filled shocks, geartrain, and servo gears all get metal construction for durability. A solid axle design further lowers the center of gravity and delivers the scale-correct stance enthusiasts expect.

Licensed Tires and Tuning

Rolling stock comes from officially licensed BFGoodrich KO3 tires, mounted on crawler-style wheels. These tires feature high-density mud blocks and reinforced sidewall patterns designed for grip on rocks, mud, and steep slopes. The suspension is tunable via multi-position shock mounting points and angles, with oil-filled metal shocks for realistic posture and smoother performance. FMS also notes extensive upgrade options, including optional portal axles, manual adjustable differentials, and parts from the BATRAZZI line.

What’s in the Box and Pricing

The FCX18 II Ford F-100 ships as a ready-to-run kit that includes the vehicle with installed transmitter and receiver, a 7.4V 900mAh battery, a USB charger, a decal sheet, and a product manual. The only thing you’ll need to add is four AAA batteries for the transmitter. Three color options are available: blue and white, cerulean, and red — each priced at $179.95. The model numbers are #118L01BDBUWH, #118L01BDCRL, and #118L01BDRD respectively.

The FMS FCX18 II Ford F-100 is available now directly from FMS. For more details and to order, visit the company’s website.

Team Yokomo has brought back a fan-favorite silhouette with a full refresh. The Mazda FC3S RX-7 drift body, once a hit among expert drivers, is now available as a complete Drift Package 2WD assembly kit built on the proven RD2.0 chassis. The kit carries the model number DP-FCBN and is priced at ¥29,800.

A Body Built for Presence

The new body wears BN Sports aerodynamics, giving it a wide, aggressive stance that immediately evokes the rotary-engine spirit. The package includes polycarbonate light brackets, aero mirrors, and a full set of decals. A clever detail: the taillight area comes with molded back panels, so builders can cut away the rear bumper to create a “damaged machine” look—a nod to the drift scene’s style.

The RD2.0 Chassis: Ready for Deep Angles

Under the shell sits the RD2.0, a super-standard 2WD RWD drift chassis. It comes equipped with oil-filled, height-adjustable shocks and a high-angle steering system that supports the kind of aggressive tail-out driving that defines competitive drifting. The suspension components are shared with upper-tier models, so the kit offers solid performance out of the box while leaving room for upgrades via the wide range of optional parts.

Adjustability Built In

Yokomo designed the RD2.0 with multiple tuning options. The aluminum motor mount can be rotated around the spur gear axis, allowing the motor position to shift forward (for sharper steering) or rearward (for more stability). The battery holder can be reconfigured to accept either standard-size or short-size LiPo or Ni-MH packs, and the stopper adjusts for different battery thicknesses. Turnbuckle-adjustable upper arms and tie rods give precise camber and toe settings, while the 4-gear transmission and full ball bearings keep driveline losses low. A rear ESC mount is standard, helping shift weight to the rear for better traction.

What You Need to Run It

This is an assembly kit, so it ships without electronics or a radio. To get the car on the track, you’ll need a 2-channel radio system (transmitter, receiver, ESC, and steering servo), a steering gyro, a compatible battery (Ni-Cd/Ni-MH 6-cell or Li-Po 2-cell), a charger, and a motor. Yokomo also includes a large front urethane bumper to protect the chassis in the event of a crash.

A Proven Platform

The RD2.0 chassis has already appeared in several other Yokomo drift packages—including the Pandem GR86 and Pandem GRA90 Supra kits—and is known for its balance of price and performance. The new FC3S version adds a classic rotary-powered look to that same capable platform.

Pricing and Availability

The Yokomo Drift Package 2WD RD2.0 BN Sports Mazda FC RX-7 Clear Body Kit (DP-FCBN) is available now from Team Yokomo and authorized retailers for ¥29,800.

Yokomo has just dropped a special upgraded version of its popular entry-level touring car chassis. The Rookie Speed RS2.0 Assembly Chassis Kit now comes with an aluminum short shock conversion and 3.5mm graphite shock towers straight out of the box. It’s a light tune-up edition that promises to boost handling without breaking the bank.

What’s New in the Kit?

The original Rookie Speed RS2.0 launched back in 2023 as Yokomo’s first entry-level 1:10 electric touring car. It was already known for easy handling and budget-friendly value. Now, the Japanese manufacturer is offering a pre-equipped version that skips the plastic shock upgrade path.

The kit includes front and rear graphite shock towers that are 3.5mm thick. These replace the standard plastic towers, adding rigidity to the suspension setup. The towers are designed to hold the shock absorbers securely, maximizing spring and damper performance for more precise and responsive handling.

The star of the show is the precision aluminum short shock conversion. Compared to standard plastic shocks, the high-precision aluminum cylinders absorb both sudden inputs and fine vibrations. According to Team Yokomo, this maximizes tire grip and delivers smoother, more stable cornering. It also helps prevent traction loss during heavy braking or tight turns.

The RS2.0 Platform Underneath

The upgraded chassis rides on the same proven platform as the standard RS2.0. The resin main chassis and upper deck are designed to provide a balanced flex for good road feel. Power delivery is handled by equal-length front and rear belts, promoting balanced traction and predictable cornering. A redesigned aluminum motor mount supports both brushed and brushless motors, giving drivers flexibility as they progress.

Other standard features include front and rear gear differentials, universal drive shafts, full ball bearings, turnbuckle upper arms and tie rods for easy camber and toe adjustment, and a front urethane bumper. The battery holder accommodates both round Sub-C NiMH packs and square 2S LiPo batteries. The short oil-filled shocks—now aluminum—drop the car’s center of gravity by approximately 10mm, greatly enhancing cornering stability. The kit also accepts modern competition touring springs, allowing for easy tuning with widely available parts.

Who It’s For

The kit is designed for a wide range of drivers, from those new to touring cars to experienced racers wanting a competitive setup. The dual-belt drive system and low center of gravity make it forgiving for newcomers while still offering enough adjustability for experienced racers. The kit is a complete assembly chassis—everything needed to build the rolling chassis is included, though you’ll need to supply a radio system, motor, battery, body, and wheels.

Price and Availability

The new Rookie Speed RS2.0 Assembly Chassis Kit with Aluminum Short Shock Conversion is available now. It carries the part number RSR-020-1 and is priced at ¥27,800. The kit is sold through Yokomo’s official channels and hobby retailers. For more details, visit TeamYokomo.com.

Die-hard model collectors and police vehicle fans have a new limited-edition target: a 1:43 scale replica of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV that served with the National Police of Ukraine. Produced by Sun Star, this die-cast model (product number 29398) is limited to just 499 pieces and is scheduled to arrive in October 2026.

The Real Deal: 635 Outlander PHEVs for Ukraine Police

This isn’t just a fictional police car. Back in May 2017, Mitsubishi Motors delivered 635 Outlander PHEV units to the National Police of Ukraine through its local importer and distributor, MMC Ukraine. The vehicles were ordered under an emissions trading agreement between Japanese companies and the Ukrainian government, part of the Kyoto Protocol Green Investment Scheme — a program that uses carbon credit funds for environmental projects.

At the delivery ceremony, Mitsubishi Motors President and CEO Osamu Masuko explained why the plug-in hybrid was chosen for police duty:

“The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is not only environmental-friendly but also contains our latest technologies such as our advanced 4 wheel drive system ‘Super All-Wheel Control’, which makes it highly suitable for police use.”

This was the second time Mitsubishi supplied vehicles under the Green Investment Scheme. The first was a delivery of 507 i-MiEV all-electric cars to the Government of Estonia starting in October 2011. The Ukrainian government’s decision to replace a portion of its police fleet with plug-in hybrids was driven by a commitment to promote environmentally friendly policies, according to the automaker.

The Model Details

The Sun Star replica captures the 2017 model year Outlander PHEV in full Ukraine Police livery. The 1:43 scale size makes it a perfect fit for existing collections, and the production run is limited to 499 units. The model is scheduled for release in October 2026.

A Best-Selling Plug-In Hybrid

The real Outlander PHEV has a strong track record. By the end of 2016, the Outlander PHEV had amassed 80,768 sales since its 2013 debut, and it held the title of Europe’s best-selling plug-in hybrid for four consecutive years. The 2017 Outlander PHEV included a new EV Priority Mode, enabling it to run solely on electric power when the battery had enough charge. The powertrain and chassis were also updated with new dampers and rear suspension bushes, resulting in a quieter, more refined ride.

Performance and Efficiency Improvements

According to Mitsubishi, the 2017 Outlander PHEV’s rapid charging time to 80% dropped from 30 minutes to 25 minutes, and its electric range grew from 32 miles to 33 miles. CO₂ emissions fell to 41g/km, while combined fuel economy rose by 6.4% to 138 mpg. These improvements made the Outlander PHEV an even more attractive option for the Ukrainian police fleet.

A Model with a Mission

For scale modelers, this release offers more than just a police car — it represents a real-world environmental initiative. The Ukrainian government’s decision to replace a portion of its police fleet with plug-in hybrids was driven by a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Outlander PHEV’s low emissions and improved fuel economy made it a logical choice.

Only 499 copies will be produced, and the model is scheduled for release in October 2026. Collectors can check hobby retailers and the Sun Star website for ordering details.

Twenty-five years after the original Xbox appeared, Mattel Brick Shop is bringing it back as a full-size, buildable display model loaded with lights, sound, and hidden game scenes. The Mattel Brick Shop Microsoft Xbox Building Set is a 1:1-scale recreation of the 2001 console, complete with a buildable Duke controller and three removable dioramas inspired by classic Xbox games.

What’s in the Box

The set contains 3,509 pieces and faithfully reproduces the original Xbox hardware. The Duke controller is fully buildable and has working buttons. Pressing the buttons activates lighting effects and in-game soundtracks for each diorama. A hidden sequence of button presses unlocks an exclusive lighting display. Opening the console triggers the original Xbox boot-up audio — a detail that will resonate with long-time fans.

Three game-inspired modules slide into the console and can be removed for separate display: Halo: Combat Evolved, Psychonauts, and The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind. Each module contains detailed NanoWorld figures: two each from Psychonauts and Morrowind, and eight from Halo, for a total of 12 figures. These 1-inch figures fit the dioramas. The Halo module, for example, allows builders to depict the Master Chief battling the Flood, while the other modules capture scenes from their respective games. All three modules can be displayed individually outside the console.

Interactive Features and Display

Mattel designed the set as both an immersive building experience and a striking shelf display. The set includes moving parts, adding to the interactive feel. The console’s opening sequence activates when the lid is lifted, and each game module responds to the Duke controller with unique lights and its own accompanying soundtrack. By pressing the controller’s buttons in a specific order, fans can discover a secret lighting sequence — an Easter egg beyond the standard button presses. The set is recommended for ages 17 and up, targeting adult collectors and experienced builders.

The Duke controller, affectionately known by that nickname among gamers, is a faithful replica of the original oversized controller that shipped with the first Xbox. Its working buttons are the key to unlocking all the interactive features. The 1:1 scale means the model is roughly the size of the original Xbox console, making it a substantial display piece.

Ted Wu, SVP and Global Head of Vehicles and Building Sets at Mattel, said in a statement: “As with every Mattel Brick Shop project, we obsessed over every detail to faithfully recreate the original XBOX console, creating a collectible build that celebrates one of gaming’s most influential consoles while rewarding fans with authentic features and hidden details to discover.”

Price and Availability

The set’s price varies depending on the source. Major retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and Mattel Creations list the manufacturer’s suggested retail price at $329.99, while Polygon reports a different price of $324.99. Preorders are open now at those same retailers. According to Amazon’s listing, shipping is expected on October 1, 2026, though not all retailers provide a specific release date.

Anniversary and Expanding Line

This building set marks the original Xbox’s 25th anniversary. Mattel Brick Shop, launched in 2025, has been expanding its portfolio rapidly. Recent releases include Masters of the Universe building sets, a Halo Warthog inspired by the original game trilogy, and licensed vehicles from top automotive brands. The Xbox set follows that pattern, offering a premium building experience tied to a major cultural touchstone.

This isn’t the first time Mattel has turned an Xbox into a building set. A previous 3:4-scale Xbox 360 set launched for $150 in 2023 under the MEGA brand, which is under the same umbrella as Mattel Brick Shop. The new set is larger, more detailed, and significantly more expensive, but it includes interactive features and game-themed dioramas that the earlier set lacked.

The three featured game modules — Halo, Psychonauts, and Morrowind — represent titles from the early Xbox library that helped establish the platform. The dioramas include characters and scenes that fans of those franchises will recognize. The set’s interactive elements, such as the controller-activated sound and light sequences, aim to enhance both the building experience and the display value for collectors.