By Maz Woolley
This article looks at some recent announcements that have caught my eye. There seems to be a lot of new models due this year even if some was originally announced for last year but missed the boat – quite literally in the case of some ranges that have had gaps between shipments.
KK Scale
KK Scale models are sealed diecast models to 1:18 scale made in China for Germany. The models have no opening parts but do have steerable/poseable front wheels.
KKS DC180602 Mercedes 600 SWB W100 Light Blue Metallic 1963
The recently released short wheel base Mercedes-Benz 600 is an impressive model in 1:18 scale. It has already been seen in light gold and black and is shortly to be released (Late March/April) in a light metallic blue which suits the car well. Although more frequently seen modelled as a long wheelbase version the short wheelbase was much more common, indeed there were more than 5 SWB cars made for every LWB one.
Road Kings
Road Kings are a sister company to KK Scale specialising in truck models and are again diecast in China for Germany. These 1:18 scale models have opening cab doors as well as steerable/poseable steering and are large!
Both the models shown below are based on castings already seen in the range but in new liveries. They are expected in UK by April.
RKS 180064 Volvo F88 JPS Team Lotus with Union Jack 1978
The KK Scale Volvo F88 has been seen previously in John Player Special livery with no mention of Team Lotus. Here we see another version of JPS livery but here Team Lotus branding is included. Truck experts have pointed to a few shortcomings in the accuracy of this Volvo model but it would certainly make an impressive display item with an authentic Team Lotus trailer.
RKS 180084 Peterbilt 359 Light Blue Metallic/Blue/ Silver 1967
Previously seen in several liveries including a stars and stripes version this is in a more sober blue finish with blue and silver striping. A lot of space would be needed to display this with an authentic trailer.
Britains
Britains has been owned by Tomy Group for some years now. They make Agricultural and Construction models, mainly to 1:32 scale. These are diecast in China for Tomy of Japan. Britains aim to offer value in their models whilst having accurate attachments. Whilst not as detailed as some other similar 1:32 ranges they are not as expensive as many of their competitors. They also produce a toy range but these are not covered here.
New models/liveries for 2021 include the following.
Kane Tri-Axel Halfpipe Silage Trailer
CLAAS Jaguar 980 with Orbis 900
John Deere 8R 410
John Deere 8R 370
Fendt 824 Vario PROFI Special Edition
CLAAS DISCO Front Butterfly Mower
CLAAS DISCO Rear Butterfly Mower
David Brown ‘Heritage Collection’
Ford 6600
John Deere X9 Combine
John Deere 4020
Farm Building set with John Deere Tractor
TSM Mini GT
The Mini GT range is diecast to 1:64 in China for Hong Kong based TSM. The models shown below are pre-production samples and may be subject to change and refinement when launched. They are expected in the UK in around June. The L and R suffix on the model number indicates whether LHD or RHD.
TSM MGT00228-L LB Works BMW M4 Purple/Green Metallic LHD
TSM MGT00228-R LB Works BMW M4 Purple/Green Metallic RHD
TSM MGT00229-L Lamborghini Huracan Evo Blue Eleos (LHD)
TSM MGT00229-R Lamborghini Huracan Evo Blue Eleos (RHD)
TSM MGT00230-L Toyota Supra Dark Green Pearl Metallic (LHD)
TSM MGT00230-R Toyota Supra Dark Green Pearl Metallic (RHD)
TSM MGT00232-L McLaren Senna Antares Blue (LHD)
TSM MGT00232-R McLaren Senna Antares Blue (RHD)
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