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  • Traxxas Slash 2WD Brushless: A Deep Dive into the Biggest Update in Years

    Traxxas Slash 2WD Brushless: A Deep Dive into the Biggest Update in Years

    The Traxxas Slash — a legendary name in the RC short-course truck world — has received what many are calling its most significant refresh in years. A new video review from RC Driver’s Greg takes an in-depth look at the all-new 2WD Traxxas Slash Brushless, and the changes are substantial.

    What’s New Under the Shell

    The headline feature is the switch to a brushless power system. The new Slash packs a VX-3 brushless system paired with a Velineon 3200 motor, delivering more power and efficiency compared to the older brushed setups. But the updates go far beyond the motor.

    Traxxas has fitted the truck with composite GTR shocks, a Low-CG chassis that lowers the center of gravity for improved handling, HD (heavy-duty) suspension components, and an updated body with fresh styling. The VX-3 brushless system is a new addition to the Slash lineup. The model is designated part number 58434-4 and comes as a 1/10 scale Ready-To-Run 2WD truck. That means it arrives fully assembled and includes the radio system, receiver, servo, and electronic speed controller — just add a battery pack and charger, which are sold separately.

    Performance and Adjustability

    Greg put the new Slash through its paces on a track and over big jumps to see how the upgrades translate to real-world driving. The combination of the brushless motor, low-CG chassis, and upgraded shocks is designed to make the truck more stable and capable than previous versions. The video assesses whether this is the best Traxxas Slash ever released.

    Radio adjustability has also been improved. The TSM (Traxxas Stability Management) system can be turned on or off, the servos can be reversed, and both steering and end-points can be set from the transmitter — giving drivers more control over the truck’s behavior. These features are detailed in the review, which also covers the truck’s handling characteristics on different terrain.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new Traxxas Slash Brushless is priced at $329.95. It requires a battery pack and charger, which must be purchased separately. The truck is available now through a variety of retail channels.

    Potential buyers can find the Slash at Traxxas retailers, Amain Hobbies (which often runs specials), Hobbytown locations, and directly from Traxxas. The RC Driver article also includes links to Traxxas sales and Amain Hobbies specials for those looking for deals. For a complete list of authorized retailers, buyers can use the Traxxas retailer locator tool or the Hobbytown store finder.

    Where to Watch

    For a full walk-around, on-track testing, jump analysis, and detailed breakdown of all the new features, the complete video review is available on RC Driver’s YouTube channel. The video is titled ‘Traxxas Slash Brushless – 2026 Release’ and is embedded in the RC Driver article. Greg, the host, provides a comprehensive look at the updated Slash and answers the question: is this the best version of the legendary truck yet? The article also includes a direct purchase link for the truck.

    With the combination of brushless power, upgraded suspension, and improved chassis design, the 2026 Traxxas Slash 2WD Brushless is shaping up to be a significant step forward for one of the most popular RC trucks on the market. The review is now live, so hobbyists can see exactly what has changed and how the truck performs in real-world conditions.

  • Team Exalt’s New Adapter Bridges Deans and 5mm Charging Systems

    Team Exalt’s New Adapter Bridges Deans and 5mm Charging Systems

    Charging a mixed fleet of LiPo packs just got simpler. Team Exalt has launched the 2S–6S Deans to 5mm Jumper, a compact adapter designed for racers and hobbyists who need a reliable link between Deans-equipped batteries and 5mm charging leads.

    The accessory, carrying part number #EXA3911 and priced at $6.99, converts a Deans (T-Plug) connector to a 5mm bullet connector. It’s built to work with 2S through 6S LiPo and LiHV packs, making it a versatile addition to any pit bag or workbench.

    Built for High Currents

    Team Exalt constructed the jumper with high-quality silicone wire and low-resistance connectors, aiming to handle the high current demands of modern LiPo and LiHV batteries. The company says the design minimizes voltage loss and heat buildup during charging, discharging, or testing. The flexible, high-strand silicone wire is meant to hold up to repeated use and folding.

    The jumper is pitched as an ideal companion for Team Exalt’s existing EXAS4005 and EXAS4006 charge leads, effectively extending their compatibility to Deans-style packs. According to the company, this results in consistent power transfer while minimizing voltage loss and heat buildup.

    A Logical Addition to the ProCharge Line

    The new adapter fits neatly into Team Exalt’s growing family of charging gear. The company also markets a Specialized ProCharge Cable (EXAS4000) that adapts 4mm charger outputs to 5mm bullet connectors. That cable, assembled in the USA, uses 1200-strand-count 12-gauge wire and gold-plated bullet connectors, which the company describes as having superior amp-carrying ability, lower internal resistance, and a longer lifespan than industry-standard connectors. The new Deans-to-5mm jumper leverages similar design principles: solid connectors and heavy-duty wire for consistent power transfer.

    For Racers and Home Users Alike

    Whether you’re trackside or charging packs at home, the adapter is meant to simplify a common connector mismatch. Deans plugs have long been a favorite in RC racing for their compact, polarized design, but many modern chargers and charge leads use 5mm bullet sockets. Rather than swapping connectors on every pack, a single jumper lets the user keep Deans batteries and still plug into a 5mm charging system.

    Retailers such as Chris’s House already carry a range of charge adapters and leads, and the Exalt jumper slots into that same category—a simple, purpose-built cable that solves a specific connectivity problem. The product is described by Team Exalt as “the perfect accessory for racers and hobbyists using the EXAS4005 and EXAS4006 charge leads.”

    Pricing and Availability

    The Team Exalt 2S–6S Deans to 5mm Jumper (#EXA3911) is available now for $6.99 directly from TeamExalt.com and through RC product retailers. It is compatible with 2S–6S LiPo and LiHV batteries. The company states it is “an essential addition for anyone running Deans-equipped batteries.”

    For those looking to expand their charging setup, the existing EXAS4000 ProCharge Cable is also available, offering a 4mm-to-5mm bullet connector solution built with 1200-strand-count 12-gauge wire. Both products are part of Team Exalt’s broader lineup of charging accessories aimed at the RC hobbyist market.

  • LCD Models Drops a 1:64 Carbon Black Pagani Zonda Revolution REVO for Q4 2026

    LCD Models Drops a 1:64 Carbon Black Pagani Zonda Revolution REVO for Q4 2026

    Diecast collectors, get ready to add a miniature of one of the most extreme track-only hypercars to your shelves. LCD Models has announced a 1:64 scale Pagani Zonda Revolution REVO finished in a sleek Carbon Black exterior, scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026.

    The model carries the product code LCD64045CB and joins the growing lineup of LCD’s 1:64 offerings. While the company has kept detailed specs under wraps for now, the real car it’s based on leaves little to the imagination.

    The Beast Behind the Miniature

    The Pagani Zonda Revolución is the ultimate evolution of the Zonda R, a track-only machine that pushes performance to the edge. Only five examples were ever built, each priced at €2.2 million plus taxes. The car is powered by a Mercedes-AMG 6.0-liter V12 that churns out 800 hp and 730 Nm of torque, all wrapped in a carbon-titanium monocoque that keeps dry weight at just 1,070 kg.

    A six-speed transversal sequential gearbox from XTRAC can swap cogs in just 20 milliseconds, while Bosch 12-stage traction control and a Brembo CCMR braking system (derived from F1 technology) help drivers exploit every bit of that power on circuit. The rear wing features a DRS (Drag Reduction System) with both manual and automatic modes, a feature straight out of Formula 1.

    The Master’s Words

    Horacio Pagani, founder and chief designer of Pagani Automobili, described the Zonda Revolución as the fastest Pagani ever built at its launch:

    “Limits are made to be overcome. We knew that Pagani Zonda R was already a fast car, the fastest ever on the Nuerburgring Nordschleife. We knew it would be very difficult to design and build a car that was even more extreme. But thanks to the creativity of our designers, engineers, and the whole Pagani family, we created a beautiful object and the fastest Pagani vehicle ever. A car that I am sure will electrify all our customers and fans all over the world.”

    What Collectors Can Expect

    LCD Models has built a reputation for detailed diecast replicas, and this Carbon Black version of the Zonda Revolution REVO should capture the aggressive aero lines, central fin, and vents that define the real car. The 1:64 scale makes it a perfect pocket-sized addition for anyone who appreciates Italian automotive art at its most extreme.

    With the Q4 2026 release window now set, the model gives collectors time to plan their display cases. Whether you own the full-sized hypercar or just dream of it, the LCD64045CB offers a far more accessible slice of Pagani’s track-only masterpiece.

    LCD Models is set to release the 1:64 Pagani Zonda Revolution REVO in Q4 2026, carrying the product code LCD64045CB.

  • Shark RC Bodies Unveils the Reef Shark for 1/10 Street Stock Racing

    Shark RC Bodies Unveils the Reef Shark for 1/10 Street Stock Racing

    Shark RC Bodies is adding a new predator to the 1/10 scale oval racing scene. The company has just announced the Reef Shark Clear Oval Body, a purpose-built option aimed squarely at racers competing in decked street stock classes.

    The announcement, covered by Big Squid RC, comes with a batch of details that will matter to oval racers looking for a fresh, scale-looking shell. Let’s break down what’s included and where this new body fits in the broader world of 1/10 oval racing.

    A Decked Design with a Muscle Car Face

    True to the street stock style, the Reef Shark is a decked body, meaning the roof is a separate piece that mounts independently from the main body. That’s a defining look for this racing class.

    Up front, the body gets a Dodge Challenger-style front end, giving it a distinct, aggressive muscle-car personality that should stand out in the staging lanes and on the track.

    What’s in the Box

    Shark RC Bodies has packed a fair amount into this release. The Reef Shark is delivered clear with a protective overspray film on the outside.

    For painters, this is a key feature. The film protects the outer surface while you apply your color scheme to the inside of the Lexan. Once your paint is dry, you peel the film away to reveal a clean, crisp finish.

    The body also includes:

    • A rear spoiler with end caps and mounting hardware
    • Window masks to keep your windows clear and clean
    • Headlight and taillight decals to finish off the scale look

    All of this is designed to get you from box to race-ready without a lot of extra trips to the hobby shop.

    Priced at $56

    The Reef Shark is priced at $56. It’s available now, and racers can find more information through Shark RC Bodies and coverage from Big Squid RC.

    The 1/10 Oval Body Market Context

    The Reef Shark enters a busy marketplace. The 1/10 oval racing segment includes a wide range of body styles, from outlaw and modified to wedge and late model, and retailers are stocked with options.

    For example, AMain Hobbies sells a large selection of clear Lexan polycarbonate oval bodies from several manufacturers, including Custom Works, JConcepts, Protoform, and RJ Speed. That catalog is aimed at dressing up 1/10 scale RC oval race cars in outlaw, modified, wedge, and late model styles, along with all the tools and accessories needed to trim, finish, paint, and mount.

    Similarly, Beach RC carries a dedicated 1:10 Oval category with an even broader mix. That lineup includes entries from Assault RC, Pro-Line, Team Associated, Custom Works, MR Kustoms, CDK RC Bodies, SMJ, GFRP, and SALVAS. Some of the products in that retail space are tied to Losi NASCAR racing, such as pre-cut 1/12 Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and Toyota Tundra truck bodies. The category also includes 1/10 dirt oval late model bodies, sprint bodies, and various body mounting accessories.

    For street stock racing specifically, there are options like the Team Associated SR10 Street Stock Body, which is also a clear body with window masks and decals for the SR10 Oval Car. There are also dirt-look street stock shells from other makers in the category.

    The Reef Shark’s key pitch is its Dodge Challenger-inspired front end and its decked roof mounting, both of which give it a different identity from the late models and sprint bodies that dominate many of the retail listings.

    A Focus on Scale Realism

    The folks at Shark RC Bodies have emphasized a scale realistic look with the Reef Shark. For oval racers who want their car to resemble a real decked street stock, that’s a meaningful detail. The inclusion of window masks and headlight/taillight decals adds to that realism, helping racers complete a polished build without a lot of extra fabrication.

    The separate roof mount is also worth highlighting. In decked street stock racing, the roof is typically a separate element, and having it as a distinct piece in the kit means racers can mount it properly and get that authentic silhouette.

    The body is now on the market at $56, and Shark RC Bodies has positioned it as a ready-to-finish shell for racers who want a fresh look with a classic muscle car vibe.

  • GP Replicas Shows Off Painted Sample of 1:18 Ferrari F2001 – Four Versions on the Way

    GP Replicas Shows Off Painted Sample of 1:18 Ferrari F2001 – Four Versions on the Way

    GP Replicas has pulled the cover off a painted sample of its upcoming 1:18 scale Ferrari F2001. The sealed resin model is heading for release in four distinct versions, each tied to a standout moment from the 2001 Formula 1 season.

    Four Versions, Two Races

    The lineup is built around two Grand Prix weekends: Monaco and Belgium. Here’s the full breakdown:

    • GP168A – Michael Schumacher’s #1 F2001, winner of the Monaco Grand Prix.
    • GP168AWD – The same Monaco-winning car, but with a driver figure included.
    • GP168B – Rubens Barrichello’s #2 F2001, second place at Monaco.
    • GP168 CWD – Schumacher’s #1 F2001, winner of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa.

    All four are sealed resin models, so there are no opening panels—just a clean, accurate representation of the car that dominated the 2001 season.

    A Car That Made History

    The F2001 was one of the most successful machines in Ferrari’s history. It carried Michael Schumacher and the team to both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles, securing the championships with three months and four races still to go. Over its 20-race tenure, the F2001 racked up 10 wins, 16 additional podiums, 13 pole positions, and 193 points. It never once failed to reach the podium in 2001.

    Schumacher was in devastating form, winning nine races that year, including the two commemorated in this GP Replicas series. His victory at Monaco was a classic, while the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa marked his 52nd career win, breaking Alain Prost’s all-time record. Barrichello, meanwhile, played a vital supporting role, scoring ten podiums, with his second-place finish at Monaco earning its own model.

    The painted sample shows the classic red livery and the car’s distinctive drooping nose—a design change introduced to meet 2001 aerodynamic regulations. The resin construction should give crisp panel lines and a show-quality finish.

    Preorder Already Spotted

    While GP Replicas has not yet announced an official release date, the GP168AWD version has already appeared on a retailer’s website as a preorder. That listing, from Miniatures Minichamps, confirms the driver-figure version and gives collectors an early sign that the series is moving toward production.

    For now, the company is asking collectors to connect with them directly for the latest information on when the models will ship. The painted sample is a promising indicator that the final product is not far off.

    A Collection for F2001 Fans

    With four versions covering two of the F2001’s most memorable races, this series offers something for every fan of early-2000s Ferrari. Whether you want Schumacher’s Monaco win, his Spa triumph, or Barrichello’s strong second place, there’s a version to match your favourite moment.

    GP Replicas has built a reputation for detailed resin models, and this F2001 series looks set to continue that trend. The sealed body means no compromises on accuracy, and the driver-figure option adds a nice touch for those who want a little more life in the display case.

    As the wait for an official release date continues, collectors can at least enjoy this first look at what’s coming. Stay tuned to GP Replicas for the next update.

  • Blitz Racing Drops a New 1/10 Scale MSX GT Body with Three Thickness Options

    Blitz Racing Drops a New 1/10 Scale MSX GT Body with Three Thickness Options

    A Fresh Shell for Custom Racers

    Blitz Racing has just released a new 1/10 scale body shell that brings a touch of iconic styling to the track: the MSX GT Clear Body. Shaped with clear inspiration from the legendary Honda NSX, this unpainted lexan shell is a blank canvas for racers who want to roll their own custom paint scheme.

    Three Thicknesses for Competitive Edge

    One of the standout features of the MSX GT is that it will be available in three different thicknesses. While Blitz hasn’t announced the exact millimeter options for this specific model, the brand’s GT body range typically includes 0.5mm and 0.7mm variants, giving racers a choice between ultra-lightweight for maximum speed or slightly thicker for added durability. For Blitz, weight savings is a core philosophy—every gram counts when you’re racing, and their competition body shells are all about improving aerodynamics and reducing drag. The body is made from polycarbonate (lexan), the standard material for high-performance RC bodies.

    What You Get in the Box

    The MSX GT Clear Body arrives as a complete package: a clear, undrilled shell, a rear wing, and all necessary mounting hardware. That means you can get straight to trimming, drilling, masking, and painting without hunting down extra parts. The body is compatible with most 1/10 touring car and GT chassis, and its shape is engineered for stability through corners and reduced aerodynamic drag.

    Blitz: A Brand Built for Racing

    Blitz has earned a strong following in the RC racing world for producing high-quality polycarbonate body shells that prioritize performance over showroom shine. Their bodies are popular in competitive series like the Euro Touring Series and the ToniSport Onroad Series, where aerodynamics and weight are critical. The MSX GT fits squarely into that racing tradition—it’s not a pre-painted shelf queen, but a competition-grade shell aimed at drivers who understand body prep and want to squeeze every tenth of a second out of their lap.

    In addition to body shells, Blitz also offers a range of accessories including rear wings, adhesive tape, thread locker, and spoiler fastening screws. The brand’s lineup covers 1:10 touring cars, FWD vehicles, M-Chassis, and 1:12 pan cars, ensuring that racers across multiple classes have access to lightweight, race-proven shapes. Blitz bodies are designed for both 1/10 and 1/8 scale race classes, though the MSX GT is specifically a 1/10 offering.

    Custom Painting: Your Chance to Shine

    Because the shell comes clear, you have the freedom to paint it in your own race scheme. This requires basic body-prep tools—scissors or a body reamer, masking tape, and patience—but the result is a one-of-a-kind look that stands out on the track. For racers who already understand trimming, drilling, and painting from the inside, it’s a straightforward process. Blitz shells are known for their crisp mold lines and consistent thickness, which makes masking and painting easier.

    Where to Get Yours

    The Blitz Racing 1/10 MSX GT Clear Body carries part number #60240 and can be ordered directly via the Team Titan product page. For Australian racers, retailers like Hobbies Direct and Speedy RC stock Blitz shells, while European buyers can turn to ToniSport, which lists a wide selection of Blitz GT bodies. As with any race shell, it’s a good idea to confirm the thickness options and fitment with your chosen retailer before ordering.

    Ready for Your Livery

    Whether you’re chasing lap records or just want a sharp-looking ride at the club level, the MSX GT Clear Body gives you a blank canvas. The NSX-inspired lines, three thickness choices, and included wing make it a versatile option for the serious on-road racer.

    Check your local Blitz dealer or the Team Titan link to grab one and start planning your custom paint job.

  • Tamiya Goes Prehistoric with New 1/35 Clic Loc Fukuiraptor Kit

    Tamiya Goes Prehistoric with New 1/35 Clic Loc Fukuiraptor Kit

    Tamiya has added a dinosaur to its lineup, and it’s a snap to build. The new 1/35 scale Fukuiraptor kit (item 28501) is part of the Clic Loc series, meaning no cement is needed — just fit the parts together and they click into place.

    A Japanese Carnivore Comes to Life

    The Fukuiraptor was first discovered in the Kitadani Formation in Katsuyama City, Fukui Prefecture, Japan, in 2000. It was the first new species of carnivorous dinosaur found in the country. The rock layer where the fossils were buried is about 120 million years old. The actual animal measured roughly 4.7 meters in length, though scientists believe it may have grown even larger. With sharp teeth, large front claws, and long hind legs, it likely hunted herbivores like the Fukuisaurus.

    Tamiya’s model is based on evidence gathered from research performed by recognized academic institutions. The company collaborated with the Dinosaur Institute, Ltd., with design consulting by Kazunari Araki and supervision by Soki Hattori, Associate Professor at Fukui Prefectural University and a researcher at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum. The skin texture, pose, and body contours are all grounded in scientific evidence, giving the model a lifelike appearance.

    What’s in the Box?

    The model measures approximately 118mm in length (some sources list a range of 110–120mm). The kit uses slide-molded parts for the head, capturing fine detailing on the teeth, and crisp molding on the claws. The Clic Loc assembly system means the kit goes together with a small number of parts — no glue required. According to Tamiya, the Clic Loc series achieves a fine finish with a minimum of components.

    Inside the box you’ll find:

    • The plastic model kit with multiple parts
    • A display base to showcase the finished model
    • 2D human silhouette figures to provide a sense of scale
    • A color leaflet with background information on the Fukuiraptor and other dinosaurs discovered in Fukui

    The kit is designed with a pose and body lines that reflect the dinosaur’s natural form, and the slide-molded head is specifically noted for its fine detail on the teeth.

    The Clic Loc System

    The Clic Loc series is designed to be faithful to its subjects in form while making assembly simple. Parts fit together without cement, and the model achieves a fine finish using a small number of parts. This makes the kit accessible to modelers of all ages, while the academic backing ensures a faithful representation of this prehistoric predator.

    The Color Mystery

    What color was the Fukuiraptor? The fossil record offers no evidence, so Tamiya leaves that to the builder. The company suggests looking at modern-day relatives and the dinosaur’s environment for inspiration, and recommends Tamiya Color paints for finishing the model. Builders can refer to printed and electronic reference materials for ideas.

    Pricing and Availability

    The kit is listed on Tamiya’s Japanese website at ¥2,000 (excluding tax). US retailers including Tamiya USA and Horizon Hobby have product pages up, and Squadron is already offering it for preorder under SKU TAM28501 with UPC 4000118867. The model is made of plastic and includes all necessary parts for assembly. The kit is based on extensive research supervised by Associate Professor Soki Hattori of Fukui Prefectural University and the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, giving it a solid scientific foundation.

  • Fronti-Art’s Silver SSC Tuatara Striker: 1:18 Replica Limited to 100 Units

    Fronti-Art’s Silver SSC Tuatara Striker: 1:18 Replica Limited to 100 Units

    Fronti-Art has unveiled a fresh finish for its 1:18 sealed resin model of the SSC Tuatara Striker. The latest replica is painted silver with red and orange accent details. Production is strictly limited to only 100 pieces, and the model is scheduled to begin shipping in mid-September 2026. The product is cataloged under code F214-01.

    A Track-Focused Hypercar

    The real SSC Tuatara Striker is the high-downforce evolution of SSC North America’s record-breaking Tuatara. Designed with fighter-jet aerodynamics as inspiration, the Striker generates approximately 1,100 pounds of downforce at 160 mph — triple that of the standard Tuatara. The aero package is the result of over 1,000 hours of computational fluid dynamics work, according to SSC designer Jason Castriota. The downforce is distributed with 45.4% on the front axle and 54.6% on the rear for optimal balance.

    This is achieved through a combination of a fixed high-downforce rear wing, an active rear wing, a vertical stabilizer, an enlarged rear diffuser, directionally vaned side rockers, a large front splitter, and integrated dive planes. The standard Tuatara boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.279, but the Striker trades some slipperiness for immense track-focused grip.

    Under the hood sits a 5.9-liter twin-turbo V8 engine built in partnership with Nelson Racing Engines. On E85 fuel, it produces up to 1,750 horsepower and 1,322 lb-ft of torque. The power is channeled through a CIMA 7-speed robotized manual transmission with an Automac AMT system that uses hydraulic actuators for rapid gear engagement. The chassis is a carbon fiber monocoque, with exposed carbon visible in the cockpit.

    Three driving modes adjust the suspension: Sport mode (4.0-inch front ride height, 4.5-inch rear), Track mode (2.74-inch front, 3.25-inch rear), and Lift mode which raises the front by an additional 40 mm.

    SSC designer Jason Castriota described the transformation:

    “Taking the pure, slippery speed form of Tuatara and transforming into the ultimate track weapon was a dream assignment. Every aesthetic change and aero element has a distinct purpose to create downforce with minimum drag penalty and the added benefit of giving the car an incredibly aggressive and purposeful aesthetic.”

    SSC first announced the Striker and the even more extreme, track-only Aggressor in 2021. The company expanded the total Tuatara run to 110 units: 100 examples of the Tuatara and Tuatara Striker combined, plus 10 Aggressors. The Striker adds at least $199,000 to the Tuatara’s $1.95 million base price.

    Fronti-Art’s Craftsmanship

    Fronti-Art Model Co., LTD was founded in the spring of 2010 and has built a reputation for handcrafted resin models with extreme attention to detail. The company’s motto centers on a “paranoia for perfection,” and its works are known for intricate and exquisite production techniques, sharp styling lines, and high-fidelity paint finishes. All models are made entirely by hand using resin as the raw material. The standard product proportions range from 1:6 to 1:64 scales, with 1:18 being a particular sweet spot for collectors. The brand specializes in Koenigsegg, Aston Martin, and other famous sports car marques.

    The Silver Striker Model

    This silver variant (product code F214-01) is a sealed resin model, meaning no opening parts. At 1:18 scale, the model measures roughly 9-10 inches in length, offering a substantial presence while remaining easy to display. The hand-made construction uses resin as the raw material, a Fronti-Art hallmark. The metallic silver paint is complemented by red and orange accents that highlight the Striker’s aggressive aero elements, such as the splitter, dive planes, and side rockers. The model joins previous versions of the Tuatara Striker from Fronti-Art, but with production capped at 100 units, this colorway is a limited edition.

    Shipping is set to commence in mid-September 2026. With only 100 units available worldwide, interested collectors will need to act quickly. The model is listed under product code F214-01.

  • BBR Captures the Ultra-Exclusive Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale in Sealed Resin

    BBR Captures the Ultra-Exclusive Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale in Sealed Resin

    The 2023 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale is the kind of car most of us will never see in the metal, let alone park in a garage. With just 33 examples hand-built by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera and every single one configured through Alfa’s bespoke “Bottega” department, it’s a rolling piece of Italian automotive art. But for scale model collectors, there’s now a way to put one on the shelf — thanks to BBR’s sealed resin replica.

    The Real Thing: A Modern Icon

    Alfa Romeo unveiled the new 33 Stradale in August 2023 as a spiritual successor to the legendary 1967 original. Buyers could choose between a 3.0‑litre twin‑turbo V6 producing over 620 horsepower or a 750‑horsepower all‑electric powertrain. The car’s butterfly doors, wraparound canopy, and sweeping lines echo the 1967 design, but everything underneath is thoroughly modern.

    The car didn’t just sit in a showroom. In 2024 it won the Design Concept Award at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and later took home “Supercar of the Year” at the Automobile Awards. The first customer delivery happened on December 17, 2024 — a date that mirrors the very day in 1966 when Franco Scaglione was commissioned to design the original 33 Stradale. Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas, an exclusive customer, tested the “00 prototype” at Balocco and called it “intuitive and engaging.”

    Because each of the 33 cars was individually tailored, no two examples are identical. That level of exclusivity makes a traditional diecast model a risky investment for manufacturers — the sales volumes just aren’t there.

    BBR’s Sealed Resin Solution

    That’s where BBR steps in. The Italian model maker has produced sealed resin replicas in 1:18 and 1:43 scales that focus on exterior accuracy rather than opening parts. The trade‑off is clear: no diecast functionality, but exceptional proportions, shut lines, paint quality, and detail.

    The model is available in factory colours such as Rosso Villa d’Este, Blu Reale, and Verde Montreal. The BBR version captures the car’s aggressive stance and dramatic proportions with precision. The wheel and brake detailing — including finely executed calipers and authentic badging — stands out even without a closed engine bay.

    All that craftsmanship comes at a steep price. The 1:18 version tips the scales at nearly $600 CAD. For that investment, collectors get a near‑flawless piece that feels special in hand, even if the doors and bonnets don’t open.

    Why Resin, Not Diecast?

    The primary article explains that mainstream diecast manufacturers are unlikely to take a financial risk on a niche, low‑production supercar like the new 33 Stradale. The projected sales volume can’t justify traditional diecast tooling costs. Sealed resin lets BBR produce a high‑quality replica without the expensive engineering required for a fully opening diecast model.

    For collectors who are genuinely moved by a specific piece of automotive art, resin models fill a crucial gap. The 33 Stradale, whether the 1967 original or the 2023 rebirth, is an absolute showstopper. BBR’s offering gives enthusiasts a chance to own a scaled‑down version of one of the most exclusive cars of the decade.

    Availability

    BBR’s sealed resin 33 Stradale models are available now. With only 33 real cars in existence — and each one unique — this replica might be the closest most collectors ever get to parking a 33 Stradale in their own garage.

  • JConcepts Drops Two Fresh Bodies for the Schumacher Cat PB Buggy

    JConcepts Drops Two Fresh Bodies for the Schumacher Cat PB Buggy

    RC racers who love to personalize their 4WD buggies have some new options from JConcepts. The company has announced a pair of fresh clear polycarbonate body shells specifically designed for the Schumacher Cat PB platform.

    Both the Striker and the S15LP models are now available, each bringing its own distinct styling and performance features. Every body comes as a clear polycarbonate shell protected by a film layer, includes window masks, and a detailed decal sheet.

    The JConcepts Striker: Aggressive Looks and P2 Stability

    The Striker model, part number #0744, brings original JConcepts Striker styling to the Cat PB. It features a wrap-around cab with a sunglass-style window design. The sidepods are heavily radiused with a flowing concept.

    A key feature is the ramping rear center fin, which is intended to provide P2 style stability on the track. The body also includes a blended upper tiny roof scoop and spur gear hump covers that fit popular models. JConcepts has designed precise cutlines for a glove-like fit and finish. The Striker is priced at $31.

    The JConcepts S15LP: Compressed Cab and Aggressive Downforce

    The S15LP, part number #0751, takes a different approach. It features a compressed cab with a single cockpit layout and a cab fin with a rear extension designed for tracking ability.

    Sidepod winglets are included for mid-force performance. The most distinctive element is the climbing rear spoiler, which is shaped to increase rear downforce. This body also includes two rear wings. Like the Striker, the S15LP is priced at $31.

    A Legacy of Winning Designs

    While these are the latest releases, JConcepts has a deep history with the Schumacher Cat PB platform. The company previously released the F2 body for this chassis, a design that traces its lineage back to an IFMAR World Championship-winning shell. The F2, available in both standard and lightweight polycarbonate, features an exclusive cab composition with a louvered roof and Finnisher “V” configuration. It comes with two 6.5″ Carpet | Turf | Dirt wings and carries a retail price of $37, with a MAP price of $31.45.

    Another popular option, the P2 body, was also made available for the Schumacher Cat PB. The P2 design has a championship pedigree, having been used by ace drivers like Spencer Rivkin (2019 IFMAR World Champion) and Dakotah Phend (3x ROAR 2wd National Champion) to dominate dirt surfaces. It features a forward-based windshield, a center fin stabilizer, and rear winglets. The P2 also includes two 6.5” wings and a decal sheet.

    More Than Just a Shell

    The new Striker and S15LP bodies come as clear polycarbonate with a protective film to prevent scratches during shipping and handling. The included window masks make it easy for modelers to achieve clean paint lines, while the detailed decal sheets allow for custom race livery. An instruction sheet is included for newer painters.

    These bodies are designed and formed in the U.S.A. by JConcepts. The company emphasizes that its team builds, tests, and travels the world to gather driver feedback, ensuring that each product meets performance standards.

    Both the Striker and the S15LP are available now through JConcepts dealers and distributors. Each body is priced at $31.

    Product Specifications at a Glance

    JConcepts Striker Schumacher Cat PB Clear Body

    • Part Number: #0744
    • Price: $31
    • Key Feature: Ramping rear center fin for P2 style stability

    JConcepts S15LP Schumacher Cat PB Clear Body

    • Part Number: #0751
    • Price: $31
    • Key Feature: Climbing rear spoiler for increased rear downforce

    Both bodies include window masks and a detailed decal sheet.