Photos from Tamiya RC 50th Anniversary – Tamiya RC 50 Years Perfect Album



Includes all the latest models, including the Hornet EVO.
Tamiya’s first RC model, the M4 Sherman tank, released in 1974, and the world’s first electric RC car, the Porsche Turbo RSR934 Racing, released in 1976, as well as the latest models, including the Hornet EVO. In addition to the main electric car models, the book explains over 1,200 RC models released in the past, including trucks, gliders, and yachts. At the end of the book, there is a complete collector’s edition list that covers everything from RC car kits to spare parts, limited edition products, and export-only models.

Special interviews with Dr. Taki, Noriko Hidaka, and Mae-chan are included!
“Tamiya RC Car Grand Prix” is a legendary TV program that was broadcast for 15 years from 1984. This book features special interviews with the three cast members. We spoke with Dr. Taki, who gave us a clear explanation of RC, Noriko Hidaka, who is by far the most popular reporter among all the reporters, and Yasuyuki Maeda, also known as “Tamiya’s Mae-chan,” who played an active role as a host and commentator. We asked
Dr. Taki about the thoughts behind the 1/16 scale RC tank “M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer,” which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2024 and is being rapidly developed for commercialization. Looking back

At the memorable “Tamiya RC Guidebook”!
In 1978, the electric RC car boom that began with the appearance of the Porsche Turbo 934 Racing was in full swing. The “Tamiya RC Guidebook,” edited by Tamiya Model Design Room (at the time), was released as the official printed material to introduce Tamiya’s RC models. In addition to serving as a catalogue showcasing all of the Tamiya RC models sold at the time with beautiful photographs, the book also contains detailed information that was difficult to find at the time, such as basic knowledge of RC models, such as the type of radio wave used by the transmitter and how to choose a kit, tips on assembly and tools, tuning tips, and even practice methods to improve driving techniques, making it a veritable bible for anyone who enjoys Tamiya RC models. This book looks back on the history of Tamiya RC models, which were published in accordance with the era and the products released, using valuable “original items” in Tamiya’s collection.

2025 Super Kids Land Main Store Tamiya World Modelers Contest Winners

The Modelers Contest was held for the first time in six years since 2019. Due to the renovation of the venue, Tamiya World, and changes in the environment, it has been difficult to hold events inside the store, but due to the enthusiastic voices calling for the contest to be resumed, it was finally held. 75 works were submitted, and there were familiar faces and many first-time participants, making it a fresh start.

The award ceremony was held in the event hall of Kids Land on the 7th floor of Joshin Nihonbashi store, which opened nearby. Everyone seemed surprised by the solid style of the award ceremony, but they seemed to enjoy listening to the stories about the works. The Kansai Modelers Contest has finally been revived. We are considering making the content more powerful with this opportunity. We look forward to seeing your fun works next time.

Award-winning works

A Tamiya Mini 4WD winning combination in an US advanced class event

Tamiya Mini 4WD cars are easy to assemble, fun, and a great entry point to racing. These small 1/32 scale snap together racers teach hobbyists the fundamentals of chassis balance as they can be set up in numerous ways to traverse different track layouts that are made from plastic.

Our customer service supervisor is no stranger to Mini 4WD racing as he has been involved in the hobby for many years. Most recently, he has taken the recent release of “The Grasshopper Jr.” (item 18105) and turned it into a winning race machine that was entered into the ADVANCED CLASS at a local Mini 4WD shop in Fullerton, CA. Dukwho Workshop

ADVANCE CLASS WINNER: Dukwho’s race program features many race class categories for its Thursday Night race program. The class in which Gary took top honors was the ADVANCE CLASS. In that class, racers are allowed to use ANY Tamiya performance part to improve the basic kits performance. There are two things that are not allowed, milling/cutting of the chassis and its attached parts, and “gimmicks”. Gimmicks are things that racers do to existing parts in the quest to get a competitive edge. The “gimmick” typically involves adding modified Tamiya parts to the chassis that were not designed by Tamiya to be used in that way. An example would be making the roller stays flap up and down using springs attached to the main chassis.

Winning Car Details

Base Kit: The Grasshopper Jr. (Item 18105) This kit is based on the VZ chassis. The VZ chassis is a compact and lightweight design that features reinforced designs for bumper, rear stay base and more ensuring that it has the durability and flexibility to withstand racing accidents. It is also a rather adaptable unit that lets its owner make numerous updates to the setup. Low friction 620 plastic bearings are molded in POM and maximize drive efficiency, while the chassis and A parts are molded in ABS.

Option Parts The performance parts listed below were used to make The Grasshopper Jr. zip around the track.

Front wheels: JR HG Aluminum Wheels 2pcs for LP Tires II/Reversible (item 95602) Aluminum wheels were used in the front while the rear used plastic wheels. This was done to change the weight balance of the car.
Front Tires: Low Friction Tires-JR Low Friction LP Tire Maroon / 2pcs TMAC 2020 (item 95545)
Rear wheels: Plastic multi-spoke wheels found in various Tamiya base kits.
Rear tires: JR LP Offset Tread Tires Hard/White Low Friction tires have the least amount of traction. Hard tires have the second least amount of traction. By using low friction tires in the front, it allows the car to glide through turns more easily compared to having a grippier tire that can lead to speed loss during turns.
Motor: JR Torque-Tuned 2 Motor (item 15484)
Rear Rollers: 17mm Alum Rollers w/Plastic Rings (item 15449) X4
Rear Roller Stay: JR HG Carbon Wide Rear Plate AR Chassis 1.5mm Asia Chall (item 95653)
Front Rollers: JR HG Alum Ball Race Rollers 17mm Ringless (item 15522)
Front Stabilizer: Item 15391 JR Stabilizer Head Set 11mm, 15mm
Front Roller Stay: The front FRP stay from (item 15526) JR Basic Tune Up Parts Set for VZ Chassis
Mass Dampers Front and Rear: Brass dampers from (item 15514) JR Basic Tune-Up Parts FM-A The brass mass dampers from this set were the perfect weight to use up front, the rear, and the middle of the car. One additional mass damper was used on the left and right middle/front section of the car to add center/front mass damper effect. (Item 15392)
Carbon Side Stays: HG Carbon Side Stays (Item 95601)
Front Brake Stay: JR HG Carbon Reinforcing Plate (Item 95600)
Rear Brake Stay: JR HG Rear Brake Stay 1.5mm
Rear Stabilizer Bar: JR FRP Front Plate (Item 15242)
Brake: JR Brake Sponge Set (Item 15512) This set includes blue brake pads which have the least amount of brake force/friction. The amount of brake friction can be fine-tuned by using Tamiya multi-purpose tape over the brake sponge in sections to reduce brake friction further.
Stabilizer Ball Caps: Stabilizer Ball Cap (Item 95575 ) were used for the rear screws holding the two attached mass dampers.
MISC: JR Countersunk Screw Set (Item 15510) These screws are helpful to use to keep the underside of the car as protrusion free as possible.
This concludes our overview of our resident guru’s Advance Class race winning machine!

See you on track!
Source: Tamiya USA

Full details and photos of Tamiya 56048 1/16 R/C M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer (Mechanical Steering System)

Shipping dates and prices will be announced as soon as they are decided.
Length: 376 mm. Image shows assembled and painted kit.

The Sherman tank was a staple of the Allied effort in WWII, with a total of about 50,000 vehicles produced, among which were a host of different variants such as the M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer, a variant used in fire support. The M4 hull featured rolled steel plates, and it employed a 9-cylinder air-cooled radial engine in the rear which powered the front sprockets via a 5-speed transmission with reverse; the 105mm gun fired howitzer rounds, smoke rounds and incendiary ammunition. The late production vehicle had horizontal vertical spring suspension (HVSS) and 840 units were produced, providing infantry support and taking part in assaults on enemy strongpoints from Europe to the Pacific Theater.

Controlled Differential Steering System
In WWII, the average tracked vehicle used a clutch brake system, whereby the sprocket on the turning side was braked to create a difference in speed between the tracks and let the vehicle turn. While it did enable pivot turns on the spot by completely stopping one track, it required considerable skill to operate, not to mention the fact that it experienced mechanical power loss and a tendency to overheat the brakes. On the other hand, the M4 Sherman used a controlled differential system that braked a sprocket wheel via a differential gear: as the turning side track slowed, the other track sped up, leading to smooth turns and in one fell swoop both minimizing mechanical loss and negating brake overheating issues. This system was also employed on the M24, the M8, and the M2 high speed tractor, vehicles which all contributed to the eventual success of the Allied WWII campaign.

About the Model
This is a 1/16 scale R/C model assembly kit. ★Just like the actual tank, the model uses a controlled differential steering system. ★Metal components are used for drive sprockets, suspension arms and idler wheel bases. ★The horizontal vertical spring suspension (HVSS) uses metal coil springs. ★Pre-assembled plastic tracks use metal pins and connectors.

Mechanical Steering System
A differential gear transfers power from the Type 540 motor. When the tracks rotate at the same speed the model moves in a straight line, turning as the track speeds differ: transmitter commands cause servo movement, which in turn slows the turning side track via one of the brake discs in the differential. A planetary gearbox in the differential unit speeds up the unbraked track.

Specifications
★Length: 376mm, width: 183mm, height: 205mm. ★Type 540 motor ★ESC included for export.

Separately Required Items
★2-channel R/C system ★R6/AA/UM3 batteries for transmitter ★Battery pack & charger

Official product photos and descriptions of some upcoming Tamiya Mini 4WD releases

95689 Thunder Shot Mk.II Asia Challenge 2025 (MS Chassis)

To commemorate the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge 2025 (TMAC) which is planned in Taiwan in early summer 2025, this limited-edition release depicts our popular Item 18620 Thunder Shot Mk.II. It features a new color body (light smoke), MS chassis (light gray) with component parts (green), newly designed clear stickers and new packaging, which makes the car stand out!
• Mini 4WD model assembly kit. Length: 152mm, width: 92mm, height: 40mm.
• The MS chassis and A parts are molded in light gray and green plastic, respectively.
• The popular Thunder Shot Mk.II body is molded in light smoke plastic.
• Gloss-green plated, fin-type wheels are paired with black super hard low-profile tires which have “TAMIYA MINI 4WD / ASIA CHALLENGE / SUPER HARD” lettering print in white.
• Clear stickers feature a modern design which has Asia Challenge lettering and its year.
• Includes a Type 130 motor. The model features a 3.5:1 gear ratio.
• Two AA batteries are required (sold separately).
• A wide range of Grade-Up Parts is available separately to customize your car.

19024 Fun-Vroom (EZ Chassis)


This assembly kit is a beginner-friendly platform – called “Trail Mini 4WD” – with the newly designed EZ chassis – into the Mini 4WD model family. The kit ensures ease of assembly with a limited number of parts and does not require Mini 4WD track courses and high-level tune-ups. The first model features a body design inspired by full- size 4WD buggies which give the model a powerful image.
• The new EZ chassis features ease of assembly, and it is molded in tinted smoke-color plastic to make the inside structure visible.
• A central double-shaft motor (Type 130 motor) is used like Mini 4WD PRO kits.
• Cement and screws are not required. Side cutters and tweezers are the only required tools.
• Replace the battery from the chassis underside.
• Using only one AA battery (sold separately), the model moves at walking pace (1m in about 3.6 seconds).
• The model features a 50:1 gear ratio.

15545 26mm Tires/Carbon Wheels Hard/Sm Dia/Low Profile Gray

Use this tire and wheel combination to fine tune your Mini 4WD machine to the track!
• Hard Small Dia. Low-Profile Tires (26mm/Gray) x4
• Carbon Wheels (Dish, for Super X & XX Chassis) x4
• Hard small diameter low-profile tires feature a lower grip and are molded in gray.
• Y-spoke carbon fiber reinforced wheels retain shape more effectively and reduce car bouncing.
• Hard tire compound.
• Compatible with Mini 4WD PRO and Mini 4WD cars with small diameter tires. (Please note that some chassis and bodies may require modification.)

15546 31mm Tires/Carbon Wheels Lg Dia/Low Friction/Arched

These are Mini 4WD optional tires fitted on V-Spoke wheels. Use them to tune your Mini 4WD machine to the racetrack.
• Large Dia. Low Friction Arched Tires (31mm) x4
• Carbon Wheels (V spoke) x4.
• Low friction tires feature a lower grip characteristic on track. Fit them to front for smooth cornering, or rear to shorten jumps.
• V spoke carbon fiber reinforced wheels retain shape more effectively and reduce car bouncing.
• Hard tire compound.
• Compatible with Mini 4WD PRO and Mini 4WD cars with large diameter tires. (Please note that some chassis and bodies may require modification.)

15547 Spike Tire/Wheel Set EZ Chassis

This spike tire and wheel set is for use on the new EZ chassis (used on Item 19024 Fun-Vroom). The set can be used to boost the uphill performance of the EZ-Chassis when transversing obstacles.
• Spike tires (black, elastomer) x4.
• Wheels (gun metal, polypropylene) x4.
• Dedicated wheels which are compatible with hex shafts of Trail Mini 4WD kit. (Not compatible with hex shafts of Mini 4WD race cars.)
• These tires boost performance on slopes and rough terrain.
• Compatible with EZ chassis cars. (Please note that some bodies may require modification.)

95683 HG Alum Ball-Race Rollers LW 13mm Tapered (Ringless)

These HG 13mm Tapered Aluminum Ball-Race Rollers (Ringless) feature an innovative design that utilizes holes to restrict extra weight. Their tapered shape helps the car get back on the course when it goes over course.
• Lightweight 13mm Tapered Aluminum Ball-Race Rollers (Ringless) x2 *New shape with holes.
• 2x8mm screws x2
• Roller Spacers x4
• Built-in 520 ball bearings.
• Saves roughly 20% weight compared to Item 95497.
• Item 95497: 0.97g / Item 95683: 0.77g (Weight is per one roller with built-in 520 ball bearing.)
• Compatible with Mini 4WD PRO and Mini 4WD cars.

95684 Multi Roller Setting Stay HG Carbon (3mm) Asia Challenge

To commemorate the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge (TMAC), this limited-edition product takes our popular HG Carbon Multi Roller Setting Stay (3mm) (Item 95258) and adds green color Asia Challenge graphics to celebrate the occasion.
• HG Carbon Multi Roller Setting Stay (3mm) Asia Challenge (Green Logos) x1.
• The lightweight carbon fiber stay has increased rigidity.
• This stay features green Asia Challenge and Tamiya logo print for a special look. (Do not use cleaners as they will damage the printed area.)
• Attachment holes are provided for 9mm, 13mm and 19mm rollers, offering plenty of setup options! (Use with separately sold option rollers.)
• Can be attached at both front and rear.
• Includes screws, nuts and washers for attachment.
• Compatible with all Mini 4WD and Mini 4WD PRO cars. (Please note that some chassis and bodies may require modification.)

95685 HG Carbon Rear Stay 3mm Asia Challenge Green Logo

To commemorate the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge (TMAC), this limited-edition product takes our popular HG Carbon Rear Stay (3mm) (Item 95259) and adds green color Asia Challenge graphics to celebrate the occasion.
• HG Carbon Rear Stay (3mm) Asia Challenge (Green Logos) x1
• The lightweight carbon fiber stay has increased rigidity.
• This stay features green Asia Challenge and Tamiya logo print for a special look. (Do not use cleaners as they will damage the printed area.)
• Attachment holes are provided for 13mm, and 19mm rollers, offering plenty of setup options! (Use with separately sold option rollers.)
• Includes screws, nuts and washers for attachment.
• Compatible with MA, MS, VZ, FM-A, AR, VS, Super-II, Super X, Super XX and Super TZ-X chassis cars. (Please note that some chassis and bodies may require modification.)

95686 Lp Tire/A-Spoke Wheel Set Sm Dia/Black Plated Asia Challenge

This limited-edition product commemorates the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge (TMAC). The set includes black-plated A-spoke wheels for a stylish look, and small diameter low-profile hard tires.
• Small Dia. Low-Profile Hard Tires x4
• Black Plated A-Spoke Wheels x4
• Black plated A-spoke wheels are paired with green elastomer, hard low-profile tires.
• The tires have “TAMIYA MINI 4WD / ASIA CHALLENGE / TMAC” lettering print in white. (Do not use cleaners as they will damage the printed area.)
• Compatible with Mini 4WD and Mini 4WD PRO cars with small diameter tires. (Please note that some bodies may require modification.)

95687 Hyper Dash Motor Pro Asia Challenge

This limited-edition release of the double-shaft Hyper-Dash Motor PRO (Item 15375) has a label and packaging commemorating the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge (TMAC). It is a balanced, high-performance motor for advanced Mini 4WD PRO racers. It is at home on a range of courses, from twisting and turning technical ones to straight-dominated speed layouts.
• This motor increases car speed and requires an advanced machine setup.
• Silver carbon mixture material brushes ensure both electrical efficiency and durability.
• The motor label is gold and black, and the end-bell red.
• Input voltage: 2.4-3.0V.
• Torque at recommended load: 1.4-1.9mN-m.
• RPM: 17,200-21,200.
• Current consumption: 1.6-3.0A.
• Compatible with Mini 4WD PRO cars only.
• Use with 8T pinion gears (sold separately).

95688 HG Alum Ball-Race Rollers 19mm Ringless/Green Asia Challenge

This limited-edition product is based upon our popular HG 19 mm Aluminum Ball-
Race Rollers (Ringless) (Item 15464). It commemorates the Tamiya Mini 4WD Asia Challenge (TMAC) which features cool green graphics.
• Aluminum rollers with built-in 520 ball bearings x2
• 2x8mm screws x2
• Spacers x4
• These aluminum rollers have “MINI 4WD ASIA CHALLENGE” lettering and Tamiya logo print on a green background. (Do not use cleaners as they will damage the printed area.)
• Compatible with Mini 4WD and Mini 4WD PRO cars. (Please note that some bodies may require modification.)

Trail Mini 4WD Kumamon Version (15th Anniversary) under development


Length: 130mm. Image shows assembled and painted prototype.

This upcoming Trail Mini 4WD car assembly kit will commemorate the 15th anniversary of Kumamoto Prefecture official character Kumamon’s birth. ★The Fun-Vroom cockpit has been updated with a roll cage roof that lets you see Kumamon at the steering wheel. ★Stickers are included for various graphics including the 15th anniversary bonnet logo. ★The Kumamon driver figure comes pre-assembled and painted.

Further information will provided in the upcoming weeks and months.

Trail Mini 4WD
Tamiya announced the first Trail Mini 4WD at the 2025 Spielwarenmesse: Fun-Vroom. The EZ chassis is powered by a single R6/AA/UM3 battery and runs at a leisurely speed. A simple assembly process requires neither screwdrivers nor grease.

Tamiya official release list April 2025

RC Models
42390 TRF421 Aluminum Lower Deck
51751 1/10RC Audi 90 Quattro Racing Spare Body Set
57941 1/10 RC XB Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) (TT-02 chassis)
58745 1/10 RC Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) (TT-02 chassis)
58746 1/10 RC Peugeot 306 Maxi (BT-01 chassis)

Scale Models
24371 1/24 Toyota GR Supra Custom

Mini 4WD
15545 Super X/XX Hard Small Diameter Low Height Tire (26mm/Gray) & Carbon Reinforced Wheel (Dish)
19024 1/32 Van Brun (EZ chassis) (Scheduled for release in 2025)
95682 MS Color Chassis Set (Fluorescent Orange) Mini 4WD Station
95681 MS Chassis Reinforced Gear Cover (Fluorescent Orange) Mini 4WD Station

Tamiya pairing transmitter with receiver & motor mode setup for brushed motor mode videos



Pairing transmitter and receiver (Item 45053: Finespec 2.4GHz Radio Control System w/ESC)
Pairing is required if the model doesn’t move despite the transmitter and receiver being on, and the receiver LED does not light up.
Please refer to the videos when pairing transmitter and receiver.


Motor Mode Setup for Brushed Motor Mode (XB models, etc.)
In addition to pairing transmitter and receiver, ESC setup is also required.
Perform this setup for XB series models, etc. with a brushed motor.