[Rimrock]

I think the thing is that to Tamiya, the 1:14 truck range seams to be kind of a 'sideshow'. Their main products are 1:10 RC cars, 1:24 and smalers plastic kits, a much bigger marked than the 1:14. Looking at the development in the 1:14 truck hobby the past 5-10 years, Tamiya have missed out good income possiblilties IMO. In Germany, and elsewhere, there are many small companies these days developing custom parts for the Tamiya kits. It's often relative small series, and high cost products. Wow, if Tamiya cared, with their knowledge and lines for mass production, they could grabbed a big part of this market themselves. But looks like the interest is not quite there. The Mercedes Actros and Arocs models are the most detailed and realistic models by now, and I think it's the German dealer/main dealer of Europe, which have managed to push on Tamiya head office to 'step up' a little. The old 3 speed drivetrain, with the race car motor, come on, SCRAP IT! and put in a up to date compact gearmotor that got a suitable speed! But...probably won't happen, just doing what they've done for 25 years, minimum changes and improvements. Well, great for all the small companies around) That being said, great kits, great finishing of the parts, great building instructions.