Most of us are used to the point-and-squirt style of remote controlled vehicles. But the highly detailed R/C car business is a big deal in other parts of the world. This video was taken this April at a meet in Dortmund, Germany and features quite an array of vehicles, all in 1:8 scale. When we say detail, we mean it: functioning taillights, engine noises perfectly aligned with vehicle movement, smoke from the truck’s stacks.
The “town” layout is huge and features a motorway services station replete with BMW X5 police vehicle and a C2 Corvette at the pumps, in addition to the typical Volvo and Renault big rigs. In one corner an O&K earthmover loads up a John Deere tractor that’s towing a bulk hauler. This is awesome!
(Thanks to Greg Rourke for the tip!)
If anyone wants one of these RC trucks, Tamiya makes several highly detailed ones. The basic kits often include trailers and have 3-speed remotely shifted transmissions, and a “multifunction unit” that adds sound and light effects is available. That’s just the start though, as there is a huge aftermarket for these – it’s just a bit more popular in Europe than here. Expect to spend the better part of a grand for most of these trucks, once all accessories and support equipment are figured in.