Friday, June 19, 2009

Worlds Fastest Radio Controlled Car





Here's a recent article at the Popular Science website about Nic Case and his 160+ mph electric-powered RC car. It's powered by Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries, an 11 HP brushless motor and sports vulcanized rubber tires mounted on aluminum rims. We applaud Nic Case for all of the effort, research and 'garage' engineering he has employed to realize this achievement.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Expression of Joy









Although we're not HUGE fans of BMW per se, we applaud them for having the courage to bring an amazing advertising concept to life. Employing the imagination South African artist, Robin Rhode, as well as a large support team of directors and engineers, a Z4 was utilized as a massive paintbrush to create a stunning visual statement (dig the radio controlled paint-dispensing nozzles outfitted within each wheel well). The end result, measuring 100' x 200', is absolutely fascinating, reminiscent of 20th century greats, Jackson Pollock and Cy Twombly, as well as graffiti pioneer, Futura 2000. 

Oh, and toss in a pinch of Jeff Koons for the sensational salesmanship, too.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Jason Ruona & JConcepts

We like Jason Ruona and what he has accomplished with JConcepts in the past five years. He's setting a new standard for the industry across the board; from innovative and quality products, to proper branding and advertising, copy writing, product photography, grassroots and national-level event promotions, customer service as well as the all important trackside support. Ruona is a racer who has made a very successful transition into the ever-changing reality and demands of a competitive marketplace. 

During a recent trip to California, RC Evil Empire.com, conducted an casual Q&A session with Ruona. In the two part interview, he discusses his career as a dedicated racer, designer and business man. You can listen to the interview here.

Vodafone Viral


This is a brilliant example of how companies can create viral marketing and accomplish brand awareness with what appears to be user-generated content. We're guessing that this entire spot was the brainchild of an advertising agency, and then shot/edited/posted to give the illusion that it's not really an advertisement for Vodafone (the worlds largest telecomm company). The reality is that this YouTube clip is just a commercial, albeit very clever, to promote their latest Bluetooth-and-acceleromator enabled cellular phone.

Regardless, it's quite effective, netting more than 1.5 million views (and 1,000+ comments and speculations). This equates to brand awareness. And of course, the best part is portraying the fantasy of having a Formula 1 World Champ, Lewis Hamilton,  casually take his multi-million dollar ride for a radio controlled spin.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Gyro Hobbies Now Stocks P1 Brand Products

We would like to thank Rob and Mike at Gyro Hobbies for being the very first retailer in Southern California to carry P1 Brand products! Located within the amazing OCRC facility in Huntington Beach, Gyro Hobbies now stocks P1 Brand Tire Tubes™ in both 10th Scale and 12th Scale sizes, as well as P1 Brand Number Decals. You can contact Gyro Hobbies at 714.892.6699.

Thank you to Gyro Hobbies for their support...and don't forget, support YOUR local hobby shop!

Sunday, June 7, 2009

P1 Brand at OCRC


P1 Brand is now a proud supporter of the new, permanent, carpet track at OCRC Raceway in Huntington Beach, CA. The track is 75' x 75' of CRC Fastrack carpet, with CRC Clik-Trak barriers, and features an amazing drivers' stand, ample lighting and tall ceilings. Timing and scoring is provided by RC Scoring Pro and club racing is broadcast live via LiveRC.com. Weekly club races are hosted on Tuesday nights at 7 pm and Saturday afternoons at 12 pm. 

P1 Brand will also be supporting the RCGT Series throughout Southern California this summer. 

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

SpeedMerchant Rev5 Lipo





Bruce Carbone at SpeedMerchant is leading the way for the emerging 1S lipo-dedicated 12th scale chassis. His company, based out of Massachusetts, is now offering the Rev5 Lipo Edition as a complete kit. Carbone, who provides customer service and trackside support that sets an industry standard,  recently emailed us these photos of his personal Rev5 Lipo Edition. Use these photos as a reference on how/where to layout the latest electronics, including the Novak Smart Boost

Thanks Bruce!