tamiyablog.com

Happy New Year - Tamiyablog's "de-blinged" Toyota Tundra

2009-01-01T01:27:00.003+01:00

First of all happy new year, may 2009 bring everyone what they desire, not only modelwise (an article about that will come soon), but in every aspect.

The Tamiya Toyota Tundra is a very controversially discussed model between the editors of Tamiyablog. On one hand we like it since it has a quite nice and detailed body and especially since it is in our humble opinion the first real new 3 speed where not an older body was used. On the other hand we are critical about it because its an impractical and "bling-chrome" SUV which has not much in common with a practical and moderate cost pickup like the Hilux and is a gas-guzzling life-style car of a, fortunately even in the USA, dying breed. This motivated me to get one and try to "un-bling" it and bring it closer to the simplicity/practicality principle of the old lovely Tamiya/Toyota Hilux. The dampers and most of the chrome parts were stripped and painted black, the suspension was lowered, other wheels and tires were used, several "extras" weren't used at all and the car was painted with a special automotive colour. Hope I succeeded at least a bit.

TAMIYA Best Models 2008 Results Voted by Visitors of the Japanese Tamiya Homepage

2008-12-22T10:11:00.001+01:00

TOP5 Scale Model division

[1] 1 / 24 NISSAN GT-R
[2] No. 1 / 24 XANAVI NISMO GT-R (R35)
[3] 1 / 48 Mitsubishi Zero Type 52 carrier-borne fighter-style
[4] 1 / 35 German Panzer II-A ~ C (France Front)
[5] 1 / 12 Ferrari 288 GTO (Semiassembled)

TOP5 RC model division

[1] Toyota Land Cruiser 40
[2] XANAVI NISMO GT-R (R35) (TB-03)
[3] Monte Carlo Subaru Impreza WRC'07 (DF-03Ra)
[4] Lamborghini Countach LP500S (TT-01 TYPE-E)
[5] Boomerang (2008)

TOP5 Mini four-wheel drive division

[1] Dash Emperor (MS Chassis)
[2] Hot Shot Special Ver.2 Momoi Halko Jr. (MS Chassis)
[3] Hot Shot Jr. (MS Chassis)
[4] Cyclone Magnum
[5] White Special Neo Falcon

It is once again interesting to see that the top ranking models are models that many people outside Japan claim to be "unwanted", "without a market", "wrong choices" and so on, which proves that Tamiya's choices are spot on for their biggest market, which is the Japanese one. Also the best placed RC model is as low as 4th place in the total votes ranking underlining also the importance and size of Tamiya's static section, which is the one that made Tamiya as big and successful as it is.

Tamiya HAL Mode Festival 2008

2008-12-15T09:45:00.004+01:00

HAL schools in Osaka and Osaka, Japan MODO school graduation exhibition produced "HAL-MODE FESTIVAL2008" events of 2008 On September 23, was held in Osaka-jo Hall. This year's theme is "to the world! Made in Japan". Japan's flagship products and technology, students with innovative and unique ideas to the world of diplomacy, about 9,000 people a day with visitors, from children to adults who have a lot of events SHIMIMASHI Or.

Among of HAL Osaka, the Department of Music student chosen as the theme of the "four-wheel drive mini-Scale Models." Using surround sound effects blaring music and a powerful finish the work, visitors stand in the spotlight.

The Osaka MODO designer fashion design department at the Department of miscellaneous group of "Scale Models" taken up the theme of the works Nagi said. Wonder of the elements "to create fun, fun to use" the word [bag] produce assemble and expression. Tamiya logo and better utilize the characteristics of plastic models, beautiful, two students were awarded prizes!

Source: Tamiya, INC.

New Tamiya RC Product Videos

2008-12-08T10:17:00.005+01:00

TAMIYA MERCEDES-BENZ UNIMOG 406 SERIES U900

TAMIYA TT-01 TYPE-E CHASSIS

TAMIYA TAMTECH-GEAR LAMBORGHINI LP500S FERRARI 288GTO PORSCHE TURBO

TAMIYA 1/10 RC ARTA Garaiya (TB-03 CHASSIS)

TAMIYA RC GERMAN PZKW IV - AUSF.J

Source: Tamiya,INC.

Tamiya on Japanese TV News

2008-12-05T10:04:00.001+01:00

Tamiya World Championship 2008 Photos

2008-11-26T10:50:00.004+01:00

Source and more

Tamiya CR-01 Crawling Tutorial Video Part 2

2008-11-21T16:07:00.002+01:00

Part 1

Tamiya wins for the third time the ISTC Class IFMAR World Championship with TRF 416 and Marc Rheinhard

2008-11-17T10:03:00.004+01:00

Championship Round 1.
A crash immediately followed after the start which gave fifth placed driver Hirosaka the chance to go on and claim first position with Hara also claiming 4th. TRF drivers Marc Rheinard, Viktor Wilck, and Jilles Groskamp finished 5th, 6th, and 8th respectively.

Championship Round 2.
From start to finish Hara and Marc both kept their cool with both going on to finish the race as they started with Hara claiming 4th. Jilles finished 9th and Victor 10th.

Championship Round 3.
After the previous exciting rounds, it made for an edge of your set exciting final round leaving Marc only one more win away to claim the World Championships! During the race Hara was leading the race with Marc snapping at his tail. Soon after with some very slick driving by Marc, he passed Hara and set up for an intense finish. Soon after the unthinkable happened, CRASH! Hara crashed, which in turn gave Marc the World Championship. Victor finished 3rd, Jilles 8th, Hara 5th, and Hirosaka 10th.

Congratulations to the TRF team for winning the World Championship Title!

Furthermore current World Champion Marc Rheinard along with TRF team mates Viktor Wilck, and Jilles Groskamp will be at Tamiya Fair on November 22 and 23 at the Twin Messe in Shizuoka City and will compete in the GP World Champion division. Come on down and check out the techniques used by world champions.

Final Overall results
1. Marc Rheinard (Tamiya/SpeedPassion) - 19pts
2. Ronald Volker (HB/LRP) - 18pts
3. Masami Hirosaka (Yokomo/Nosram) - 17pts
4. Atsushi Hara (HB/Team Orion) - 17pts
5. Elliot Harper (Xray/Nosram) - 15pts
6. Viktor Wilck (Tamiya/SpeedPassion) - 13pts
7. Andy Moore (HB/Team Orion) - 10pts
8. Hayato Matsuzaki (HB/LRP) - 9pts
9. Meen Vejrak (Xray/LRP) - 7pts
10. Jilles Groskamp (Tamiya/SpeedPassion) - 6pts

Tamiya 58417 Subaru Impreza DF-03Ra and 58415 Toyota Tundra High-Lift Exhibition Videos

2008-11-14T10:24:00.001+01:00

New Items at the Tamiya-Fair, November 22.-23.

2008-11-06T21:52:00.010+01:00

(Only new items not already covered by previous Tamiyablog entries are listed below)

RC:
58423 1/10 Super Clod Buster Chrome Edition (Chrome version of 58321)
57782 1/10 XB Mitsubish Pajero Metaltop Wide (Finished version of 49490)
57785 1/10 XB Hotshot (Finished version of 58391)
84059 1/10 XB Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Car 2008 (Limited Edition)
55102 Tamiya LF Racing LF2200-6.6V battery
55103 Tamiya LF 6.6V DC battery charger
55104 Tamiya LF Racing LF2200-6.6V battery & LF 6.6V DC battery charger
84064 1/10 Mini Cooper S 2006 Lightweight Body Parts Set (Limited Edition)
84065 1/10 Raybrig NSX 2007 Lightweight Body Parts Set (Limited Edition)
54131 Front Upright for DB01 WO Assembly Universal Shaft
54137 TB-03D Aluminum Rear Upright (1 Degree)
54139 Touring Car Body/Accessory Parts Set

Static Models:
16034 1 /6 Yamaha Midnight Special XS1100LG (re-release of 16017, probably w/Cartograf decals)
24312 1/24 Calsonic IMPUL GT-R (R35)
26536 1/48 German Sd.Kfz.250/3 "Greif" w/Figure (Finished Model) (finished version of 32550)
32562 1/48 British Small Army Car 10HP Tilly
61106 1/48 F-16C/N Agressor/Adversary
61105 1/48 Avro Lancaster B Mk.I / III (re-release 0f 61020, probably with improvements)
61081 1/48 Focke-Wulf Fw190 D-9 JA44 (re-release)
35024 1/35 British Tank Mk.II Matilda (re-release)
xxxxx 1/25 British ChieftainTank (Static Version) (re-release of 30608)
30614 1/25 British Centurion Tank Mk.III (Static Version) (re-release)
78021 1/350 Japanese Navy Cruiser Mogami
xxxxx 1/48 U.S. 2 1/2 Ton 6x6 Cargo Truck (Finished Model)(Finished version of 32548)
xxxxx 1/48 German Steyr Type 1500A/01 (Finished Model)(Finished version of 32549)
xxxxx 1/48 German Steyr Typ 1 1500A Kommandeurwagen (Finished Model)(Finished version of 32553)
xxxxx 1/48 U.S. M20 Armored Utility Car (Finished Model)(Finished version of 32556)
xxxxx 1/48 U.S. M8 Greyhound (Finished Model)(Finished version of 32555)

Mini 4WD:
15384 Bumperless N-03/T-03 Units w/LED Unit (Red)
15390 Fluorine Coated Gear Shaft (Straight, 2pcs.)
15394 FRP Multi Roller Setting Stay
15392 Mass Damper Set
15389 Mini 4WD Multipurpose Case
15388 Narrow Reston Sponge Tires (Black)
94675 Dash-2 Burning Sun (Finished Model) (Finished version of 18628)
94677 Reinforced VS Chassis (Red) (Lim.Ed.) (red version of 94656/94657)
18629 Tridagger XX
19303 Buck Blader (re-release)
19507 Astro Boomerang (re-release)

Merchandise:
64347 Tamiya Catalogue 2009 (Scale Model Version)

Supplies:
87100 Tamiya Epoxy Cement
87101 Tamiya CA Cement (Disposable Type)

Tamiya CR-01 Crawling Tutorial Video

2008-10-31T09:45:00.002+01:00

Source: Tamiya, INC.

Tamiyablog's Unimog

2008-10-24T10:50:00.003+02:00

After the announcement of the Tamiya Unimog CR-01 release in July 2008 and the growing popularity of the CR-01 chassis, it was clear that the first Tamiyablog Unimog would not wait for long. Although the boxart Tamiya orange is an excellent colour choice, we like to try alternative colours. In the case of the Unimog that was not an easy task. But the PS-12 metallic silver now used, excellently accentuates the shapes of the "Universal Motorgerät". We look forward to the next CR-01 release, the Jeep Wrangler.

New releases presented at the 48th All-Japan Game Model Show, Tamiya Boomerang 2008 & Jeep Wrangler CR-01

2008-10-17T00:30:00.005+02:00

There have been some rumours about new RC-models for the 2008 Plamod & Radicon fair in addition to those announced a couple of weeks ago. Now it's official.

58418 Boomerang 2008

58429 Jeep Wrangler CR-01

And we wouldn't be Tamiyablog if we didn't include a picture of the next Mini 4WD Momoi-Halko Special. ;-) This time, the Hotshot Jr. (Mini 4WD Pro version) got the Momoi-Halko treatment!

94680 Momoi-Halko Version II, Hotshot Jr.

Here also a few photos of other new Tamiya RC cars which already have been presented earlier in this blog:

58417 1/10 Subaru Impreza WRC Monte Carlo'07 (DF-03Ra Chassis)

58415 1/10 Toyota Tundra Highlift

84056 1/10 F103 Chassis Kit 15th Anniversary

42138 1/10 TRF416 World Edition Chassis Kit

84032 1/10 F103RM (w/L-body) (Limited Edition)

57780 1/10 XB Lamborghini Countach LP500S (TT-01E) (XB version of # 58413)

New Tamiya Kakegawa Rock Crawling Terrain

2008-10-13T09:49:00.002+02:00

Without rocky road to ride the full Fields enjoy the charm of the birth of the circuit is Kakegawa Tamiya. Thousands of stones placed in the difference in height 3.5m, average 17 ° oblique degree, a large section area of 110 square meters, an event held rock crawling, of course, a charms and many plan to disseminate information.

- Course Overview
Width of 13m, depth 8.5m, difference in height 3.5m, average inclination 17 °
Expert challenging, of course, is the first time rock crawling for beginners and offers from multiple lines to be run on natural stone is placed in a fine. Also in the field using the stairs as embedded stones, along with the driver of the car can go up. In addition, the concrete pavement in the field of outer charity, after climbing for a safe return to the consideration.

- About the machine running
Toyota Land Cruiser 40 and CR-01 chassis, Tamiya, such as the Ford F-350 can be made of driving the car.

- Opening
Saturday, October 4, 2008 5 (Sun), this "Kakegawa rock crawling Tamiya" commemorate the opening of the meeting's running. Shizuoka locals, of course, heard of the course is open to entries from afar, with a set of 26 players. Mini-grade technology to compete in the event, also watched a number of galleries. Choose a line and running safely, to reach the summit, and other players, of course, a big applause from the gallery was awarded.

Source: Tamiya, INC.

Thank You President Shunsaku Tamiya - 1000 Poster Surprise

2008-10-07T10:44:00.001+02:00

This year also safely to the 47th Tokyo Game Show was over.

Shiyunsaku Tamiya In fact, the president is on June 1, 2008, will be chairman. The new president is currently senior managing director Masayuki Tamiya. This year, the president of the Tamiya Shiyunsaku Tamiya joined exactly 50 years to become a milestone in a year.

So everyone's president "Thank you! president" is trying to think, is pressing ahead with operations fans.

Every year, the first day of public open day on Saturday evening in the country has been gathered from all over the modeler party exchanges in a joint exhibition venue. Therefore, organizers of the party's Shizuoka Shiyunsaku Tamiya cooperative model as chairman after the speech, all of a sudden the message posters.

The posters were prepared by the official 1,000. good sense of the president should not advance. So just before 20 minutes before the party, just 10 minutes in 1000 to distribute the posters off the one-time rehearsing the production that immediately. During this time, the president of the venue Shiyunsaku Tamiya Tamiya Sone not like to ask the executive director Tamiya booth in the meeting room to get off your shirt.

In fact, unforeseen circumstances and there are many fine episodes in the result was a complete success! In general, only 10 minutes in 1000 to distribute posters off the description of the spot, then only one rehearsal are going well, with normal circumstances. Formed in the last minute on the day of the surprise operation with more than 30 staff, and above all participants Shiyunsaku Tamiya, president of the feeling that there is a great success!

By the way, and I once wrote in rehearsal, but also people in the front row of the excitement and hoist high the man behind the posters on the stage too difficult to see from the other places time. Looking at this picture production, but will be in the front row of people with low Thank you well. And the president just before noticing a two-fold in the concealed, even if you do not, I try upside down when some people have said to me before and what people are talking about, or if, but such How many people who come from an image. But the excitement is back well.

From what I hear, chairman said it is "retirement" is not mind.

"Thank you! Shiyunsaku Tamiya president!"

Electronic translation from

Rest in peace Paul Newman

2008-09-30T10:03:00.007+02:00

Since other sources give a better coverage about the life and work of the great actor, film director, entrepreneur, humanitarian and auto racing enthusiast Paul Newman (in my humble opinion together with Steve Mc Queen the two most important film artists for the motorsport world) and being a Tamiya-Blog, we will just present few Tamiya RC kits of the cars he raced as a tiniest contribution to honour him.

In 1979 he participated at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in Dick Barbour's Porsche 935 (Hawaiian Tropic scheme unlike the Tamiya Martini one) and finished the race in second place!

Tamiya 58002 Porsche 935 Turbo

From the mid-'70s to the early '90s, he drove for the Bob Sharp Racing Team, racing mainly Datsuns (later rebranded as Nissans) in the Trans-Am Series. One of the cars was the Datsun 280 ZX.

Tamiya 58022 Datsun 280ZX RM Mk.2

Paul Newman also owned his own racing team, which competed in the Can-Am series, but later co-founded Newman/Haas Racing with Carl Haas, a Champ Car team, in 1983. The 1996 racing season was chronicled in the IMAX film Super Speedway, which Newman narrated.

Tamiya 58134 Newman Haas K Mart Texaco Lola T93/00 Ford

We will definetely miss him...

Opening of 2nd Tamiya Plamodel Factory at Tokyo Shimbashi

2008-09-26T10:30:00.002+02:00

Tamiya's Official Outlet
Experience, Play, and Enjoy at "Tamiya Plamodel Factory - Shimbashi"
Tokyo's Shimbashi District - September 17th Grand Opening!

World-renowned hobby product manufacturer Tamiya, Inc. (Headquarters: Shizuoka City, President: Masayuki Tamiya) is producing the new integrated official shop and event venue "Tamiya Plamodel Factory - Shimbashi" which is set to open on September 17th, 2008 in Tokyo's Minato ward. In addition to retail activities, the location will also serve as a focal point for information dissemination to spread the attractive appeal of Tamiya's hobby products.

This project is developed and operated by Tamiya Plamodel Factory, Inc. (President: Shunichi Sakamoto)

Following the opening of "Tamiya Plamodel Factory" at Tressa Yokohama on March 27th, 2008, this Shimbashi location will be the second to open.

Venue Information

Name
Tamiya Plamodel Factory - Shimbashi
The first location in Tokyo, this large-scale venue will showcase Tamiya's entire product lineup on three floors.

Shop Floors
Two Floors to Stock Approximately 4,000 Current Tamiya Products
The basement and ground levels will showcase approximately 1,000 Scale Model Series products, 1,500 Radio Control Series products, 1,000 Mini 4WD Series and Educational Construction Series products, 500 Tools, Paints, and Publications, as well as other special products and Original Goods.

Event Floor
Event Floor with 150 Square Meters of Multi-Purpose Space
Events such as official new item annoucements, model exhibitions, Mini 4WD and R/C races, workshops, seminars, and talk shows will be held in this function space. Model clubs will also be able to rent this space for private use. Those who work can stop by during their lunch break or after work, while friends and families can enjoy the venue on the weekends.

Grand Opening Event
To commemorate the opening of the Shimbashi location, a special event is to be held on the Event Floor of the building.
Details will be announced on the Tamiya Homepage at a later date.

Organization
Producer Tamiya, Inc.
Development/Operation Tamiya Plamodel Factory, Inc.

Location
6 Toyokaiji Building, 4-7-2 Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0004

Operating Hours
Weekdays 12：00 - 22：00
Saturdays/Holidays 10：00 - 20：00
Sundays Closed

Access
JR or Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Shimbashi Station - 5min walk from Karasumori exit
Toei Mita Line Uchisaiwaicho Station - 7min walk

Source: Tamiya, INC.

New releases at the All Japan Plamodel Radicon Show (Updated Sept. 28)

2008-09-16T21:51:00.020+02:00

Recently, Tamiyablog presented information about some future RC-models from Tamiya. Since then, several sources have announced further new items, which we haven’t listed as the information was relatively easily available for anyone with a minimum of dedication. However, with Tamiya’s most recent announcement in Japanese for the All Japan Plamodel Radicon Show in October, we feel obliged to list a few future releases. Some of the items listed for the fair are deliberately not listed below as they have been known for some time before Tamiya's most recent announcement and partially presented by Tamiyablog in previous posts. Furthermore, some of the listed items may be limited edition items available only at the fair and/or on the Japanese market only. Descriptions will be updated and corrected, and pictures posted as soon as further information gets available to us.

Radio Control:

42138 1/10 TRF416 World Edition Chassis Kit
84056 1/10 F103 Chassis Kit 15th Anniversary

84032 1/10 F103RM (w/L-body) (Limited Edition)
58417 1/10 Subaru Impreza WRC Monte Carlo'07 (DF-03Ra Chassis)

58419 1/10 NISMO R34 GT-R Z tune (TT-01D Chassis)
58420 1/10 TB-03D Chassis Kit (drift version of the TB-03 Chassis)

58424 1/10 Takata NSX 2008 (TB-03)
57780 1/10 XB Lamborghini Countach LP500S (TT-01E) (XB version of # 58413)
xxxxx Aluminum Horn for High-Torque Servo Saver (M-Chassis)
42124 HP Motor Transpeed Brushless 3.5T
42125 HP Motor Transpeed Brushless 6.5T
42126 HP Motor Transpeed Brushless 7.5T
42127 HP Electronic Speed Controller Volac Brushless
xxxxx HL Cylinder TRF Special Dampers (2 Pcs.)
xxxxx HL Cylinder for Aeration Dampers (Front, 2 Pcs.)
xxxxx HL Cylinder for M Chassis Aluminum Dampers (2 Pcs.)
42135 HP Battery Charger
42136 Stable Power Supply 24A
xxxxx DB01 Assembly WO Universal Shaft (Rear)
xxxxx CR-01 Cliff Crawler Tires (2 Pcs.)
xxxxx Aluminum Horn for High-Torque Servo Saver

Static Models:

12040 1/12 Porsche 934 Turbo RSR Jägermeister with photo-etched parts (re-release of # 12020, probably Cartograf decals.)
24310 1/24 Sauber-Mercedes C9 1988 (re-release of # 24091)
24311 1/24 Martini Porsche 935 Turbo (re-release of # 24001)
16033 1/6 Honda CB1100R (re-release of # 16022, with Cartograf decals.)
35294 1/35 Italian Semovente M40 Self-Propelled Gun (re-release of # 35078)
35296 1/35 Italian Tank Carro Armato M13/40 (re-release of # 35034)
35295 1/35 German Heavy Tank Destroyer Jagdtiger (completely new molds)
35297 1/35 German 8-Wheeled Armored Car Sd.kfz.232 "Africa Corps" (probably modified re-release of # 35036)
21073 1/48 Fieseler Fi 156C Storch (Finished version of # 61100)
26535 1/48 Russian Field Car GAZ-67B (Finished version of # 32542)
12628 1/350 Japanese Navy Submarine I-400 Detail-Up Parts Set (for # 78019 & 89776)
61104 1/48 Folke-Wulf Fw190 F-8/9 w/Bomb Loading Set (probably based on # 61039)
89782 1/48 German 3 Ton 4x2 Cargo Truck Kfz.305 (Opel Blitz)

Mini 4WD and Educational Series:

94676 New Year's Limited Edition 2009 "Year of the Ox"
94671 Neo Falcon Special White Edition (based on # 18617)
xxxxx Solar Car Assembly Kit (re-release of # 76001, but probably molded in black instead of grey)
75024 Solar Power Generator Set
18630 Mini 4WD Pro Dash-3 Shooting Star (MS Chassis)
94673 Avante Mk.III Azure (Finished version of # 18626)
94674 Avante Mk.III Nero (Finished version of # 18627)
15383 Mini 4WD F Grease (Flurorpolymer Compound)15382 Bumperless N-03/T-03 Units
Supplies:

74534 Spray-Work Painting Booth (Twin Fan)
85083 TS83 Spray Paint Metal Silver (probably “real” chrome silver, similar to Alclad2 paints)
85084 TS84 Spray Paint Metal Gold (probably “real” gold paint, similar to Alclad2 paints)
74084 Mini Bending Pliers for Photo-Etched Parts

Rookie Rabbit 2, what if.......?

2008-09-11T21:29:00.012+02:00

When the Rookie Rabbit was released in 1991, it was Tamiya's first "hobby level" factory assembled RC-model, following the "toy grade" Quick Drive RC-car series released in 1988. The Rookie Rabbit was to remain the only model in the series, so though the production figures of course aren't known to me, it would seem that the success was rather modest. Still, the Rookie Rabbit can be considered the grandfather of the XB (Expert Built) series of factory assembled models that started in 2000, and which has been tremendously successful. So, apart from looking a bit weird, having a funny name and "girlish" pink decals, the reason why the Rookie Rabbit remained the single model in its series, might actually be because it was ahead of its time.

In 1996, the Rookie Rabbit was "re-released", but this time as a kit and named "Fighter Buggy RX". Not only the name, but also the colour scheme was now more masculine, something that possibly contributed a lot to its popularity. It was marketed as an entry level buggy, and the chassis dubbed DT-01, on which two more models would follow, the Mad Bull and the Mad Fighter. With the continued popularity of the DT-01 in kit form, It took 9 years before the next generation entry level chassis was released, the DT-02. The principle of the simplest possible but robust design remained the same, and even quite many body design clues of the Rookie Rabbit/Fighter Buggy RX were carried over to the first model in the DT-02 series, the Super Fighter G. However, with fully independent double wishbone suspension and much better weight distribution, the DT-02 was a vast leap forward.

Fighter Buggy RX, the kit version of Rookie Rabbit, and the Super Fighter G, the origin of Tamiyablog's imaginary Rookie Rabbit 2.

My Rookie Rabbit together with his imaginary successor, Tamiyablog's Rookie Rabbit 2.

So far, the Super Fighter G hasn't yet been released as a factory assembled XB model, so the idea with the Super Fighter G presented here, was to make it look how the XB-version might have looked, if Tamiya had chosen to follow the same scheme as with the DT-01, and release the XB version of the Super Fighter G as a "Rookie Rabbit 2". To mimic the colour scheme of the original Rookie Rabbit, just like the Super Fighter G reflects the colour scheme of the Fighter Buggy RX, I dyed the dampers and wheels with black fabric dye. Admittedly the original Rookie Rabbit has grey dampers, but dyeing the Super Fighter's original blue dampers in grey is virtually impossible, so black was the next best thing. However, I would like to have grey friction dampers for my "Rookie Rabbit 2", but they are very hard to source, just like any other part that is unique for the Rookie Rabbit. For the selfmade decals, I used a scan of the Super Fighter G decals as the basis and changed the colours from red and blue to the pink and yellow of the Rookie Rabbit decals and added the logo and rabbit itself from a scan of the Rookie Rabbit decals. A rather simple but very time consuming job, especially because of all the retouching needed, and a lot of literally "cut and try" to get the sizes exactly right, which is crucial for decals that are so integrated with the body designs. Also, I could easily have made the red blend into the pink, but I decided to keep the original pixelation of the Rookie Rabbit logo, as the exaggerated pixelation clearly was intentional from Tamiya’s side. I also deliberately kept the driver and other small details unpainted and didn't even glue or sand the split in the helmet (like I otherwise always do), as this is how it was done by Tamiya for the Rookie Rabbit too.

As a sidenote, in the picture below, not only a comparsion of the models themselves, but also a comparison of the transmitter included with the Rookie Rabbit and the current design of transmitters included with XB-models shows very clearly how much design has evolved since the early nineties.

Knowing Tamiya's dedication to style and quality, it's perfectly clear to me that a "real" Rookie Rabbit 2 made by Tamiya would have looked a lot better, but I hope I have at least to some extent transferred the spirit of the Rookie Rabbit onto the Super Fighter G. Anyway, it's one step ahead in Tamiyablog's history of hypothetical "What if Tamiya had.......?"-models, and there is more to come. Next up is a model based on a recent re-release, finished in colours and decals resembling one of the limited edition Mini 4WD-models, so if you by chance should enjoy Tamiyablog's "alternative colour scheme" models, please visit the site again soon.

More future Tamiya RC models (update)

2008-08-27T18:49:00.009+02:00

58412 1/10 R/C 4WD High Performance Racing Car Xanavi NISMO GT-R (R35) (TB-03 Chassis)
2008 saw the end of the Nissan 350Z and the debut of the rear wheel drive No.23 Nissan Xanavi NISMO GT-R/VK45DE in the Super GT class, which is driven by team drivers Satoshi Motoyama and Benoit Treluyer. The GT-R has a 4,494cc sized motor which thumps out in excess of 500HP. On its debut the No.23 Xanavi GT-R won and team Motul Autech GT-R came second for a well earned one-two finish, and continued its winning ways at the second round with the Xanavi recording back to back wins.

About the Model

New TB-03 chassis follows in the footsteps of the TB-02.
Bathtub frame comes with a motor cooling duct to improve heat dissipation for better performance.
In-board Front Suspension system features horizontally-mounted front dampers to enable a low-nose profile to mount the new-mold aerodynamic polycarbonate body shell. (Body shell is also compatible with TA05-IFS chassis)
Newly-designed one-piece aluminum motor mount makes changing and adjusting gears a breeze.
Equipped with front and rear ball differentials for greater power transmission efficiency.
Race-proven reversible short suspension and TRF416 front and rear knuckles.
PS2 Red, PS23 Gun Metal, PS48 Semi-Gloss Silver Anodized Aluminum, PC-5 Black colors are separately required to recreate the race car’s livery.
Includes body, narrow 6-spoke wheels, racing slick tires, and Type 540 motor.
2-channel R/C system, 7.2V battery and charger separately required.

58413 1/10 R/C 4WD High Performance Racing Car Lamborghini countach LP500S (TT-01 Type-E Chassis - yes, 1/10 scale!)
At the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, the Lamborghini Countach prototype was put on show. Three years later in 1974, Lamborghini released the first LP400 model Countach with the LP400S the LP500S models soon following. At the 1982 Geneva Motor Show both the LP400S and LP500S prototypes were showing off their overhanging front and rear fenders and a rear wing option. In 1985, approximately 320 of these vehicles sporting a new 4754cc motor replacing the previous 3929cc motor were manufactured.

About the Model

New polycarbonate body captures the beautiful form of the Countach.
Mirror, rear wing, and metal plated light case are separately-molded parts.
Head lights are in the down position (Can not pop up)
Type 540 motor installed on the impressive shaft-driven 4WD TT-01 (Type-E)
Improved steering linkage design features TA05 steering posts for sharper steering response.
Short wheel base (251mm), Rear wide tread (Uses long wheel axle).
Countach LP500S (TT-01E) wheels. Front offset [+2] Rear offset [+4].
Racing Slicks (Item 50419) provide excellent traction for high speed racing.
LED Lights: Fog lights (5mm white) x 2, Taillights (5mm Red) x 2 are included.
Both front & rear light cases have two 5mm and four 3mm LED Light installation points.
2-channel R/C system, 7.2V battery and charger separately required.
Wide variety of Option Parts are separately available to customize your machine.

58415 1/10 R/C Toyota Tundra Highlift (see previous blog entry)

58416 1/10 Rising Fighter
The all terrain 2WD Rising Fighter inherits all its great qualities and excellent performance from its predecessors The Hornet (Item 58336) and The Grasshopper (Item 58346) and also uses a similar body to that of other fighter series R/C cars. (Tamiyablog would however like to point out that Rising Fighter is based on the Grasshopper 2 chassis, and not the Grasshopper (1) chassis, like the above description could otherwise give the impression of. The friction dampers and the gearbox are taken from the DT-01 chassis (Fighter series), whereas the wheels and tires are from the Desert Gator of the DT-02 series. Also, the body is a modified carry-over of the Super Hornet body with the wing of the Mad Fighter.)

About the Model

Length: 418mm, Width: 236mm, Height: 187mm, Wheel base: 268mm, Weight: 1000g.
Independent swing axles for the front suspension, a rolling rigid rear suspension, and large sized friction dampers effectively absorb shocks and bumps.
Bevel type diff gear.
Semi monocoque structure acts as the chassis strengthening part (Screws are used to secure the resin body to the bathtub chassis).
Fully enclosed gearbox preventing dirt and debris from interfering with operation.
Powered by a 540 motor (included).
Grooved front tires and rear spike tires ensure excellent traction for any surface.
Stylish resin molded body.
ESC included.
Running 7.2V battery & charger and Expec 2-channel R/C system separately required.

57779 XB Nissan GT-R (Expert Built TT-01E chassis)
57781 R/C XB Rising Fighter

48207 1/35 R/C M4A3 Sherman Tank (w/4ch Transmitter)

Future 3 Speed TAMIYA 58415 1/10 R/C Toyota Tundra Highlift

2008-08-24T09:40:00.007+02:00

In February 2007, after a full model change, Toyota released a full-sized American pick-up truck. It was the first time in Toyota’s history that an “All American Made” pick-up truck was sold. With the rising crude oil prices and the increasing demand for economical Japanese cars, the sales of the Tundra in the Pick-Up truck market was quite strong. This model precisely shows off the Tundra’s modern looks and its great ability to take on any terrain with its excellent drive system. Tamiya’s truck model of the Tundra comes as an accurately reproduced Double Cab version. Furthermore, this model Tundra comes with option parts allowing the user to raise the body in the same manner as the actual pick-up truck.

About the Model
- The durable ladder frame chassis features steel channels and resin cross members for high strength.
- Accurately replicating the Tundra’s suspension system are metal leaf springs, and coil springs with metal friction dampers.
- Equipped amidships for a lower center of gravity is a 3-speed transmission allowing gear changing and realistic low speed driving.
- Propeller shafts and slipper clutch efficiently transfer power to all wheels on any type of terrain.
- Powered by a type 540 motor. (included)
- The full-time 4WD guarantees road hugging performance.
- The differential can be locked in place to enable improved performancing on any surface it may face.
- The newly designed chrome plated wheels with bead lock rings precisely catch the essence of the Pick-up truck. Because the Tundra is fitted with similar side-block tires like the F-350 (58397), it is possible to change them with any other cross country tires.
- 4-Channel transmitter, ESC, and running battery & charger are separately available.
- Loading the separately available Pick-Up Truck Multi-Function Unit (Item 53957) MFC-02 will further enhance the truck and put a wide range of realistic light, sound, and vibration effects at your fingertips.
- For dressing-up the model, snow boards (2) and roof racks are included.

1957 Tamiya Remote Controlled Tank

2008-08-18T09:23:00.000+02:00

Source and more

World's smallest solar powered car from Tamiya

2008-08-12T08:22:00.000+02:00

Source: Tamiya, INC.

Tamiya finishes 1st and 2nd on European Touring Car Championship 2008 with TRF 416

2008-08-04T16:38:00.004+02:00

Final results (Official)
1. Marc Rheinard (DE) - 3pts [Tamiya]
2. Vikor Wilck (SE) - 4pts [Tamiya]
3. Ronald Volker (DE) - 5pts [Hot Bodies]
4. Andy Moore (GB) - 7pts [Hot Bodies]
5. Teemo Leino (FI) - 9pts [Xray]
6. Alexander Hagberg (SE) - 9pts [Xray]
7. Jilles Groskamp (NL) - 9pts [Tamiya]
8. Steven Weiss (DE) - 9pts [Xray]
9. Elliott Harper (GB) - 11pts [Xray]
10. Marc Fischer (DE) - 16pts [Corally]

Source and more