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Associated Electrics has just rolled out its latest 1:8 scale off-road racing weapon: the RC8T4.2 Team Kit. Developed at the company’s Area 51 R&D facility, this nitro-powered truggy builds on the RC8 series with a host of chassis and suspension updates aimed at serious racers.

What’s New in the RC8T4.2?

The RC8T4.2 is a ground-up refinement of the previous RC8T4 platform. Key upgrades include molded height-adjustable gearboxes front and rear, along with redesigned shock towers that offer more body-mount height options. The suspension arms are all-new molded units, engineered for increased durability and a cleaner, more modern look.

Steering geometry gets a significant overhaul with a new 16-degree KPI steering block and updated bump steer geometry. The rear anti-roll bar now features wider mounting points. The chassis itself is a new -4mm plate (nitro version only) with improved chassis bracing options. A new molded top plate completes the chassis package.

Other notable features include a high-volume center differential, a high-downforce wing, and FT hard-anodized aluminum shock bushings. The brake system gets an updated pad material and a new brake spring. Drivetrain bits include 40/9 ring and pinion gear sets, 131mm universal driveshafts with 17mm outdrives, and both 19mm and 20mm diameter HTC internal differential gear sets. The kit also comes with bladder and emulsion style shock seals, plus FT hexes and grooved pins.

Kit Contents and Required Gear

Like all Team Kits from Associated Electrics, the RC8T4.2 is sold as an unassembled kit. It includes all the parts listed above, but you will need to supply your own nitro motor, batteries, servo, radio system, receiver, wheels, tires, and a 1:8 scale body. Assembly and painting are also required.

Alongside the nitro version, Associated Electrics also released the RC8T4.2e Team Kit, an electric variant that shares most of the same chassis updates but omits the nitro-specific -4mm chassis (the electric version uses a different chassis layout). The electric kit retains the same height-adjustable gearboxes, suspension arms, steering geometry, and other core features. The source materials describe the RC8T4.2 and RC8T4.2e as being designed for hardcore truggy racers.

Pricing and Availability

The RC8T4.2 Team Kit (nitro) is priced at $729.99 (some sources list it at $729). The RC8T4.2e Team Kit (electric) comes in at $699. Both kits are available now. The source materials note that one source specifies $729.99 for the nitro model, while another source gives the nitro price as $729 and the electric price as $699.

The kit’s part number is #80957. For more details, visit AssociatedElectrics.com/TeamAssociated or see more posts about Team Associated.

Specs at a Glance

• Scale: 1:8
• Power Source: Nitro fuel (RC8T4.2) / Electric (RC8T4.2e)
• Terrain: Off-road
• Body Style: Truck
• Assembly Level: Kit (requires assembly and additional parts)
• Length: 560mm (22.05in)
• Drive: 4WD
• Internal Gear Ratio: 4.44:1
• Part Number: #80957 (nitro)

With a long list of race-proven updates, the RC8T4.2 Team Kit is ready to hit the track. The kit includes 131mm universal driveshafts with 17mm outdrives and both 19mm and 20mm diameter HTC internal differential gear sets.

Davis & Giovanni has confirmed it will bring a 1:43 scale version of the Porsche 911 (992) GT3 RS MR to market, and the model will arrive with a seriously wide palette. The announcement promises nine exterior color options and a delivery timeframe of October 2026.

A Rainbow of Choices

Collectors won’t be short on options. The full color lineup, each tied to a specific model number, includes:

• HQ43002A – GT Silver
• HQ43002B – Ice Grey Metallic (Nürburgring)
• HQ43002C – Matt Dark Blue, Red Bull Livery
• HQ43002D – Geyser Grey Metallic
• HQ43002E – Mint Green
• HQ43002F – Racing Yellow
• HQ43002G – Matt Black
• HQ43002H – Matt Pearl White
• HQ43002J – Metallic Orange

That’s an unusually broad range for a single-model release, covering everything from subdued metallics to bold race-inspired liveries. The Matt Dark Blue with Red Bull graphics is a direct nod to the track, while options like Mint Green and Racing Yellow lean into the car’s more playful side.

The Real Machine Behind the Miniature

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS MR is no ordinary 911. It’s the road-legal, track-focused variant developed by Manthey-Racing, the Meuspath-based team that has run Porsche’s factory GT racing program since 2013. Manthey’s performance kit for the 992-generation 911 GT3 adds a larger front spoiler lip, side flaps, a wider swan-neck rear wing with a Gurney flap, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic rear diffuser fins, and aerodiscs on the rear wheels. The result is more than four seconds quicker around the Nürburgring compared to the standard GT3, according to Porsche’s own testing.

The 992 911 GT3 itself lapped the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in 6:59.93 on the official configuration, the first time a 911 GT3 had broken the seven-minute barrier. It also introduced a double-wishbone front axle derived from the 911 RSR race car. The Manthey kit pushes that already potent platform even further.

Existing Models and What Davis & Giovanni Brings

Davis & Giovanni’s offering joins a small but growing field of 1:43-scale GT3 RS MR models. Minichamps has produced official Manthey-Racing versions in black and green, with a black model listed at the Motorworld Shop for €79.90. Each of those Minichamps releases is limited to 300 pieces. Davis & Giovanni hasn’t disclosed a production run for its model, so it’s unclear whether this will be a limited edition or a regular-line item. What is clear is the sheer number of color variants—nine is a lot for a single diecast release, and it gives collectors plenty of ways to match their favorite real-world spec.

The model itself is in 1:43 scale, the classic diecast size that fits neatly into display cases and dioramas. No pricing has been announced yet, but the October 2026 delivery date gives buyers a good window to pre-order.

With nine colors, a Manthey-Racing connection, and a confirmed October 2026 delivery, the Davis & Giovanni Porsche 911 (992) GT3 RS MR is shaping up to be a must-watch for Porsche scale-model collectors. Keep an eye on pre-order windows as the release date approaches.

R1 Wurks is giving R1B owners a fresh batch of tuning options, with a new carbon fiber rear chassis brace and a set of brass weights that let you dial in balance and front-end bite. The parts cover two ends of the setup spectrum—lighter flex tuning and heavier mass distribution—and they’re all available now.

Lighter Carbon Fiber Rear Chassis Brace

The first release, announced in late June, is a carbon fiber rear chassis brace that replaces the kit-standard aluminum part. R1 Wurks offers it in two stiffness levels: Medium-Soft and Medium. Both slot under the stock aluminum brace in terms of flexibility, but the company says the isotropic layup construction gives the carbon braces a springier feel with consistent flex characteristics.

Weight is a clear differentiator. The aluminum brace weighs 9.85g, while the Medium carbon version comes in at 6.48g and the Medium-Soft at 5.10g. That’s a savings of roughly 3 to 4.7 grams, depending on the choice.

Each brace kit includes the carbon fiber plate and four threaded inserts. R1 Wurks recommends applying medium-strength blue threadlocker to the mounting screws and notes that CA glue can be used on the inserts or holes, as long as the threads stay clean.

Pricing is straightforward: $19.99 for either stiffness. The Medium is part number #920326, and the Medium-Soft is #920327.

Brass Chassis Weights for Fine-Tuning Balance

Just this week, R1 Wurks followed up with a set of brass chassis weights designed to help racers meet regulation weight requirements while also fine-tuning handling. The weights come in two configurations: Long inner weights (two pieces) and Short outer weights (two pieces). They can be used individually or combined to get the ideal weight distribution for a given driving style or track condition.

Installation is simple: remove the foam chassis strips, clean and degrease the pocket, apply the adhesive strip that comes in the kit, and press the weight into place. Each package includes two weight strips and two adhesive strips.

Pricing: $10.99 for the Long Chassis Weight (part #920287) and $9.99 for the Short Chassis Weight (#920288). R1 Wurks also sells replacement adhesive strips separately: $2.99 for a pack of two long strips (#920287-1) or two short strips (#920288-1).

Brass Servo Weight Plate for Extra Front Bite

Rounding out the new parts is a brass servo weight plate that adds 14.5g of weight to the front of the buggy. The goal is to increase front weight bias, which loads the front tires and improves turn-in, steering response, and front-end grip. R1 Wurks notes this setup is especially popular on high-grip clay and carpet tracks.

The plate mounts directly to the servo and includes one weight plate plus three M2x3mm screws. It’s priced at $10.99 under part number #920331.

All Parts Available Now

All three product families are available directly from R1 Wurks at R1Wurks.com. The carbon fiber brace launched in late June, while the brass weights and servo plate arrived in early July. For R1B owners looking to shave grams or add mass exactly where they want it, the new options give plenty of room to experiment.

Visit R1Wurks.com for full details and ordering.

The Bugatti Tourbillon Équipe Pur Sang is one of the most extreme hypercars ever built, with a powerful hybrid powertrain and a price tag that puts it out of reach for all but a few. Only 250 will ever exist. Now, two scale‑model specialists are making this thoroughbred available at a fraction of the size — and a fraction of the cost.

MR Collection and Looksmart have confirmed they will produce scale models of the Bugatti Tourbillon Équipe Pur Sang in 1:18 resin (sealed) and 1:43 formats. No official release date has been set, but an unofficial estimate points to later Q4 2026 or early Q1 2027. The models carry the product codes BUG021 / LS578.

A Track‑Inspired Package

The real Équipe Pur Sang option debuted in March 2025 at Bugatti’s historic home in Molsheim, France. It transforms the standard Tourbillon into a motorsport‑inspired iteration with a dedicated front splitter, a redesigned rear diffuser, and a rear wing with small endplates that improve aerodynamic efficiency. The most eye‑catching change is the eight‑pipe exhaust system — exactly eight tailpipes arranged across the rear.

Custom directional wheels, 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, reduce turbulence and increase airflow to the rear radiator by up to 8%. Sources differ on the exact starting price of the real car, with one report citing roughly $4.1 million and another mentioning nearly $5 million. Similarly, the combined power output is reported as both 1,800 hp and 1,775 hp in different outlets. Inside, the cabin features Black Poli interior trim, the Medium Carbon Fiber Interior Package, and embroidered dashboard and headrest logos. Performance seats with enhanced lateral support come standard.

Hendrik Malinowski, Managing Director of Bugatti, described the package when it was announced:

“With each new era of Bugatti, we seek to honor our heritage while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. … With the Équipe Pur Sang option, we elevate its appearance towards the track, enabling customers to celebrate the pure racing soul that has defined Bugatti for over a century.”

Under the Skin

Underneath the aggressive aero, the Tourbillon packs an 8.3‑liter naturally aspirated V16 producing 1,000 hp on its own, plus three electric motors that add more power for a combined output in the range of 1,775 to 1,800 hp according to various sources. The hybrid system allows the car to weigh less than its predecessor, thanks to a T800 carbon‑composite chassis. The powertrain achieves 1,000 hp without turbocharging, delivering immediate, linear power.

Bugatti is limiting production to just 250 units globally. The starting price has been reported as 3.8 million EUR and also as roughly $4.1 million, while another report mentions nearly $5 million. Owners configure their cars at Bugatti retail locations or at the Château Saint Jean in Molsheim, guided by Bugatti’s design team.

Models for Collectors

MR Collection, an Italian company headquartered near Lake Como, has been an official Bugatti licensee for years and supplied models for major world premieres. Looksmart handles the 1:43 version, while MR Collection produces the larger 1:18 resin model. The 1:18 will be a sealed resin piece — a common choice for highly detailed, display‑oriented collectibles.

The models will be released under product codes BUG021 / LS578. The expected window of late 2026 or early 2027 gives collectors time to plan. An official release date has not yet been announced.

MR Collection has given collectors their first look at an upcoming miniature tribute to Bugatti’s final W16 roadster. A first sample of the Bugatti W16 Mistral Special Edition has been revealed, arriving as a sealed resin model in 1:18 scale.

Production is capped at just 99 units worldwide, matching the production run of the full-size car.

A Sealed Resin Replica

This is the second of two new samples MR Collection has shown this week, cataloged under product number BUG015SE2. The model is a sealed resin piece, meaning it has no opening parts. This particular model replicates the Bugatti W16 Mistral Special Edition.

A Tribute to the Legendary W16 Roadster

The model replicates the actual Bugatti W16 Mistral, a roadster Bugatti has described as “the ultimate roadster.” The real car was revealed on August 19, 2022, and is the final roadgoing model to use Bugatti’s iconic 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine, producing 1,600 PS (1,578 horsepower) and 1,600 Nm of torque.

Bugatti built only 99 examples of the Mistral. All units were spoken for before production began. Deliveries to customers started in early 2024.

Key design elements of the full-size Mistral include a deeper, wider three-dimensional horseshoe grille, vertically stacked LED headlights arranged four per side, roof-mounted air scoops that amplify the W16’s sound, and distinctive X-shaped taillights inspired by the Bolide concept. The interior features woven leather door panels exclusive to the Mistral and a gear selector carved from a single block of aluminum, housing an amber insert with Rembrandt Bugatti’s “Dancing Elephant” sculpture.

The Mistral is not simply a cabriolet version of the Bugatti Chiron but rather a separate roadster model that marks the last vehicle to use the W16 engine.

Performance and Legacy

The Mistral holds the title of the world’s fastest roadster. In November 2024, it achieved a top speed of 453.91 km/h (282 mph) with the roof down. Bugatti quotes a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) time of 2.4 seconds and a 0–200 km/h (124 mph) time of 5.6 seconds. The 7,993 cc W16 engine uses four turbochargers with Bugatti’s two-stage turbocharging system, sending power to all four wheels through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Maximum torque of 1,600 Nm is available from 2,250 rpm to 7,000 rpm.

Each Mistral undergoes extensive testing at Bugatti’s factory in Molsheim, France, before delivery. The car has a DIN empty weight of 2,040 kg (4,497 lbs) and a 44/56 front-to-rear weight distribution.

One-Off Variants

Since the Mistral’s introduction, Bugatti has created several one-off variants under its Programme Solitaire and Sur Mesure programs. In 2025, the Brouillard was revealed as a closed coupe, marking the first Programme Solitaire model. January 2026 saw the F.K.P. Hommage, a tribute to Ferdinand Karl Piëch and the original Veyron, producing 1,578 HP. Most recently, on July 1, 2026, Bugatti unveiled the W16 Mistral “Blanc Éternel”, a one-off created in collaboration with Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM), featuring porcelain components on the exterior and interior.

The MR Collection model joins a growing lineup of scale tributes to this landmark car, offering collectors a miniature version to display alongside their full-size dreams.

The LEGO Group is taking its Art series into the gilded world of Gustav Klimt. On August 1, 2026, fans can get their hands on 31221 Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss — a massive 4,000-piece recreation of the Austrian symbolist painter’s most famous work.

The Largest LEGO Art Masterpiece Yet

This set marks a milestone for the LEGO Art Masterpieces line. At 4,000 pieces and measuring 60 cm (23.5 in.) by 54 cm (21 in.), it’s the biggest set in the series to date (excluding the World Map). The build transforms the two-dimensional painting into a three-dimensional LEGO interpretation, using layered textures, metallic gold elements, and specially decorated pieces to capture Klimt’s signature “Golden Phase” style.

The original painting, completed between 1907 and 1908, shows two lovers locked in an embrace against a flower-strewn meadow, their robes shimmering with gold leaf, silver, and platinum. The LEGO model recreates that ornate look with a sea of golden bricks, decorated circles, spirals, and floral details.

A Collaboration with Vienna’s Belvedere

The set was developed in close collaboration with the Belvedere Museum in Vienna, where The Kiss has been permanently displayed for over a century. The Belvedere’s curatorial team worked alongside LEGO designers to ensure the brick version stayed true to the spirit of the original.

Milan Madge, Master Model Designer at the LEGO Group, described the challenge:

“Recreating Klimt’s The Kiss in LEGO bricks was a unique creative challenge, requiring us to capture its rich textures, golden tones, and intricate detail while honouring the original masterpiece. By combining golden LEGO elements with specially decorated pieces, we were able to recreate the artwork’s distinctive shades and textures in a building experience that celebrates its extraordinary beauty.”

Stephanie Auer, Curator of 19th- and 20th-Century Art at the Belvedere Museum, added her perspective on the collaboration:

“Working as a curator for the adaptation of Klimt’s The Kiss into a LEGO Art set was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Together with Milan Madge, we had extensive discussions about Gustav Klimt’s symbolism, ornamentation, and artistic techniques, as well as how these could be represented using LEGO bricks. Distinctive features such as the flatness and composition were carefully translated into LEGO bricks—always with the goal of staying true to the spirit of the original work.”

More Than a Build: A Podcast Companion

To deepen the experience, LEGO has produced a special podcast episode. From August 1, listeners can tune in via LEGO.com/TheKiss, Spotify, or YouTube. The conversation features Madge and Auer discussing Klimt’s artistic legacy and the translation process behind the set — a fitting soundtrack for the assembly process.

Pricing and Release Details

The set (model number 31221) is rated 18+ and carries international pricing:

• US: $299.99
• UK: £269.99
• Europe: €299.99
• Australia: AU$499.99
• Canada: CA$419.99
• Singapore: SGD$449.90

LEGO Insiders can grab it early from August 1 through LEGO.com or local LEGO Stores. General availability opens on August 4, when it will also appear at select retailers. Given the steady popularity of the LEGO Art line and Klimt’s massive collector-market value — his Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer sold for US$236.4 million at Sotheby’s in 2025 — this set is poised to attract both art lovers and brick enthusiasts.

High-end model maker Amalgam has released the first painted samples of its 1:8 scale Ferrari Amalfi X 2, and the diecast community is getting a proper look at the finished product. The model, which features semi-opening doors, is being offered in two color options: Verde Costiera and Red.

According to the company, only a handful of pieces remain available. Pricing and full ordering details are not yet public — interested collectors are directed to contact Amalgam directly. The product number for the model is still listed as TBD.

Painted Samples Revealed

The Amalfi X 2 is the latest Ferrari subject to receive Amalgam’s signature treatment. The painted samples shown off by the manufacturer give a clear view of the exterior finish and the door-opening mechanism. While the model does not feature a fully opening engine bay or trunk, the semi-opening doors add a layer of display interactivity that collectors of high-end scale models have come to expect from Amalgam’s work.

The two colorways — the metallic green Verde Costiera and a classic Red — are both striking, and the paintwork appears to match the exacting standards Amalgam applies to its full line of Ferrari replicas.

The Amalgam Treatment

Amalgam Collection is known for producing museum-grade models using original CAD data supplied by the car manufacturers. For previous Ferrari models, such as the 12Cilindri, the company has invested over 3,000 hours of development time and each 1:8 example requires roughly 300 hours of hand assembly. The 1:8 scale Ferrari 12Cilindri, for context, is limited to 199 coupes and 199 Spiders, priced at $18,220 for standard spec and $25,510 for bespoke orders.

While the Amalfi X 2’s production numbers and price have not been disclosed, the limited availability noted — “a few pieces are left” — suggests it will be a small run, consistent with Amalgam’s typical limited-edition approach.

A Legacy of Precision

Amalgam’s relationship with Ferrari stretches back more than 25 years. The company has produced detailed replicas of Ferrari’s Le Mans-winning 499P, the 12Cilindri, and numerous other models. Founder Sandy Copeman has previously explained that Amalgam works directly with Ferrari’s Maranello team, gaining access to the same CAD data used to build the real cars. This allows the model makers to replicate even complex curves and interior details with extreme accuracy.

Copeman has also noted that between 20 and 30 percent of customers who buy Amalgam’s Ferrari models actually own the full-size car. That level of collector expectation drives the company to achieve finishes that include custom-tinted seat stitching, carbon-weave replication, and multi-layer paint that mimics the real car’s shifting appearance under light.

How to Grab One

For now, the Ferrari Amalfi X 2 in 1:8 scale is not listed on Amalgam’s public shop with a fixed price. The company advises potential buyers to reach out directly to inquire about availability and pricing. Given the “few pieces left” note, anyone interested should act quickly.

Amalgam Collection continues to expand its Ferrari lineup, and the Amalfi X 2 — with its semi-opening doors and two elegant color options — looks set to be a sought-after addition for serious model collectors.

INNO64 has kicked off another release cycle. On July 12, 2026, the diecast maker posted a fresh set of model definitions and product numbers via DiecastSociety.com, signaling that a new batch of 1:64 scale diecast models is on the way.

What the Announcement Contains

The announcement is lean: images showing product numbers and model definitions, with no full press release or list of model names. Collectors are now poring over those images to decode what’s coming. The brand’s typical format suggests this is a standard product-number reveal, with the actual models to be confirmed later. The source article simply states: “A new list of models from INNO64 is on the horizon. Please review the images for model definitions and model numbers.” The images themselves are the only public detail so far.

Recent Releases Provide Context

While the specific models in this particular announcement have not been identified, INNO64’s recent output — as covered by enthusiast sites like LamleyGroup — has included a steady stream of JDM legends, race cars, and tuner builds. Past coverage has highlighted models such as the Pandem Rocket Bunny 190E, Nissan GT-Rs in various generations, Mazda RX-7 and RX-3 variants, and Porsche RWB builds. The brand has also produced box sets, like the 130 RS and 130 LR four-car sets, and special editions tied to events like the IAM Bangkok 2025 show.

Retailers already carry extensive INNO64 inventory. At Horizon Diecast, the “New Arrivals” section includes the Pandem Rocket Bunny 190E Echo Gao’s Car, while the preorder list runs deep: the Honda Civic FL5 JS Racing, Top Secret V12 Supra, Mazda RX-7 Mad Mike Madbul Gen8, Pandem 997 Pink Pig, Liberty Walk Countach, LB Silhouette Works Miura GT, LBWK F40 Collet, RWB 930 ’89 Apple Livery, RWB 997 Orange Burning Flame, Toyota Supra A90 Darwinpro Matt Grey, Mazda MX-5 ND Miata Pandem Rocket Bunny V1.0, Mazda 787B #18 59th 24 Hours Le Mans 1991, Yanwang U8 Black, Honda Integra Type R DC5 Top Secret Thailand Honda Fest Thailand 2025, Mercedes Pandem Rocket Bunny 190E Jagermeister, Mazda 787B Winner at 24 Hours Le Mans 1991, and a Pandem Rocket Bunny E30 (The Year of the Horse 2026 Limited Edition). Several models are marked as sold out, including the Mazda RX7 FD3S Pandem Rocket Bunny Madbul (Madlab Collection 001) and the Top Secret GT-R R35 IAM Bangkok 2025 Event Edition.

Model Cars Houston also lists INNO64 models, though the site focuses on the brand’s broader catalogue rather than a specific announcement. The retailer’s mission statement emphasizes “premium grade, high-quality, legitimate diecast and resin model cars” and a commitment to customer service.

None of the retailer listings have been officially tied to the July 12 announcement. The images from DiecastSociety.com represent the only direct source of the new product numbers.

What’s Next

For now, the key sources of information are the images posted alongside the announcement. INNO64 has not provided release dates or pricing for the newly numbered models. The brand’s track record of varied, enthusiast-focused releases — from race winners to modern tuner builds — suggests the new batch could continue in that vein, but official confirmation will have to wait. Collectors should monitor the images and official channels for further updates. The announcement is dated July 12, 2026, and the images are available at DiecastSociety.com.

If you’ve ever been at the track with a charger that needs a firmware update and no Windows laptop in the pit bag, you know the frustration. Driver conflicts, missing cables, and fiddling with USB connections can eat into precious practice time. RC Discharger has a tidy solution: a pre-loaded Micro SD card that updates your iCharger charger directly through its built-in card slot, with zero computer involvement.

No Windows? No Worries

The card bypasses the need for a PC, a USB connection, or any driver installation. It works equally well for Mac and Linux users, making it a universal trackside tool. The process is simple: insert the card, hold a specific three-button combination during power-up, and release when the charger screen shows “Boot.” No troubleshooting, no extra gear, and no Windows-only barriers. The card comes pre-loaded and ready to use—no additional downloads are required.

Supported iCharger Models and Firmware Versions

RC Discharger’s card arrives pre-loaded with firmware tailored to specific iCharger families. For the 308DUO, 406DUO, and 4010DUO, the card provides v2.18, the latest stable release for that series. For the DX6, DX8, DX12, 456DUO, 458DUO, and 4512DUO, the card carries their latest stable versions, designated v1.19. Each card is tested and formatted correctly for iCharger’s file system, a step RC Discharger calls “RC Discharger Verified.”

Installation Steps

The update procedure varies by model group. For the 308DUO, 406DUO, and 4010DUO, you press and hold the KNOB, STATUS-2, and STOP-2 buttons while powering on the charger. Keep holding for a full 20 seconds until the screen shows “Boot,” then release. For the DX-series and 456/458/4512 DUO models, the same button combination is used, but you release as soon as “Boot” appears—no 20-second hold required.

RC Discharger recommends keeping steady pressure on the buttons during power-up and following the steps in order to avoid a missed press. The card is designed for a simple, repeatable update process that matches iCharger’s native update method, avoiding the common driver issues that slow down race prep.

What’s in the Box

The kit includes one Micro SD card pre-loaded with firmware and one SD card adapter. The adapter converts the Micro SD card to a standard SD size, making it easy to manage files on a laptop or tablet. The card works immediately out of the box—just insert it into the charger and follow the update procedure. After updating, you can keep the card in your pit box for future firmware checks.

Why Firmware Updates Matter

Firmware updates can improve charger stability and add support for new features, helping maintain consistent charge and discharge routines across race days. RC Discharger notes that a clean update process is essential for track reliability. For racers who travel frequently, having a driver-free update method means you can update quickly and get back to driving without hunting down a Windows machine. The card is described as the perfect solution for racers at the track or those using Mac/Linux systems.

Availability

The iCharger Firmware Update Micro SD Card v1.19 is available directly from RC Discharger’s website. It’s a simple, repeatable update solution that fits in a pit box and works at home or at the track.

H-Tech Custom Products has added a new accessory to its lineup: a CNC-machined aluminum front bumper designed specifically for the Vanquish VS4-10 Origin, a 1/10-scale R/C crawler kit. The bumper was announced on July 8, 2026, and is intended to give the rig a visual boost while improving durability compared to the stock part.

Tube-Style Bumper, Machined from Solid Aluminum

The bumper features a tube-style-inspired design and is machined from solid aluminum. According to the product description, this construction offers improved durability plus style compared to the VS4-10 Origin’s stock bumper. The design aims to enhance the front end’s appearance, making it a natural upgrade for builders who want to personalize their truck.

H-Tech offers the bumper in two finishes: matte silver and matte black. This allows owners to match the color to their rig’s existing theme or create a contrasting look. Both options are priced at $62.00.

Compatibility and Product Page Details

The official product page on H-Tech’s website lists the bumper as the “H-TECH CNC Aluminium Front Bumper for Vanquish VS4-10 Origin (For VPS09026A / VPS09026B).” This confirms that the part is designed for use with these specific Vanquish model numbers. Owners of the VS4-10 Origin variants identified by VPS09026A or VPS09026B can order the bumper as a replacement for the original front bumper.

Pricing, Ordering, and Company Information

Each bumper is priced at $62.00 and is available directly from H-Tech’s website at h-techproduct.com. The company, based in Incheon, South Korea (as indicated by the return address on the product page), handles orders through its online store. The product page includes a comprehensive return and exchange policy. According to that policy, buyers may request a return within three days of delivery if the item is defective or incorrect. The request must be posted on the company’s return forum with photos of the product, and must include the item code, order number, and reason for return. Approval from staff is required before shipping. Items must be returned in original condition with all tags, labels, and packaging intact. Even defective or incorrect items must be returned with all tags and labels intact, in original packaging and unworn. Returns for change of mind, size, or color are not accepted. The company covers shipping costs for returns caused by its own errors. If EMS cash on delivery is not possible, customers can scan the return receipt and mail it with the item or post an image on the forum, and the shipping fee will be refunded upon arrival. Returns shipped without prior consent are not accepted. Additionally, if an item is missing from the order, customers must contact customer service within one day of delivery and keep all original packaging materials. The return address is clearly listed as [22772] 인천광역시 서구 중봉대로240번길 18-3 (석남동) 1층 에이치테크, confirming the South Korea location. This policy provides clear guidance for customers ordering the bumper.

Key Specifications

Here are the key details of the new bumper:

• Material: CNC machined aluminum
• Design: Tube-style inspired
• Color options: Matte silver and matte black
• Price: $62.00
• Compatibility: Vanquish VS4-10 Origin (model numbers VPS09026A and VPS09026B)
• Manufacturer: H-Tech Custom Products
• Availability: Direct from h-techproduct.com

About the Vanquish VS4-10 Origin

The Vanquish VS4-10 Origin is a 1/10-scale R/C crawler kit that has gained a following for its scale appearance and capable chassis. The stock bumper is functional, but the new aluminum part from H-Tech offers a more durable and stylish alternative.

Why This Bumper Stands Out

Replacing the front bumper can change the look of a crawler significantly. H-Tech’s machined aluminum version uses a tube-style design that gives the front end a custom appearance, while the solid aluminum construction provides improved durability over the stock component. The two color options give builders flexibility to coordinate with their existing color scheme. Builders looking for a durable and stylish upgrade have a new option that comes directly from the manufacturer’s online store.

Availability

The H-Tech CNC Aluminum Front Bumper for the Vanquish VS4-10 Origin is available now in matte silver and matte black at a price of $62.00. It can be ordered directly from H-Tech’s website.