Pit Post: Body Changes For 12th Scale RC Racing

Hot Topic       

 

 

Are the body change rules for 12th Scale good for the class? Hot Topic

The 12th scale RC racing scene is in for a big shake-up as the EFRA 12th Track section has announced a major update to its bodyshell rules. In the coming years, expect to see the sleek, advanced designs of modern endurance racing cars, inspired by the cutting-edge LMDh and IMSA prototypes, on the track. After decades of consistent bodyshell regulations, this new direction promises to inject some fresh energy and realism into the class.

Are the New 12th Scale Body Changes Right for the Class?

For years, 12th scale cars have carried the “LMP” or Le Mans Prototype name, yet few have resembled the real World Endurance Championship (WEC) or IMSA counterparts. The upcoming rules, set to take effect in 2026, aim to change that by establishing specific guidelines to ensure that these models accurately reflect the sleek, high-tech appearance of real LMH and LMDh cars. The rules will also focus on clear aerodynamic standards, giving manufacturers a foundation for developing realistic yet competitive designs. For 12th scale class, this is an exciting step that aligns with the modern aesthetics of full-scale endurance racing.

At RC Club Hub, we’re thrilled about this shift. In our view, the class has remained fixed in tradition for too long, and the move to reflect the striking looks of LMH cars is long overdue. Racing one of Mon-Tech's new LMH bodies in 10th scale left us impressed by how well these cars handled while paying tribute to the realistic design. It’s exactly the sort of evolution the class needs. 

Of course, this change hasn’t been without controversy. While many commenters on the announcement welcomed the realism and the prospect of more attractive car bodies, others voiced concerns. Some feel the classic style and simplicity of 12th scale could be lost, making the class more complex. Worries over how these changes might impact the Modified class were also common, with sceptics questioning whether handling could suffer with the new designs.

Despite the mixed responses, there’s plenty of anticipation for the influx of new bodyshells as manufacturers rush to develop designs that balance speed with the new aesthetic demands. The transition may take time to settle, but we’re optimistic that it will usher in an exciting new era for 12th scale racing.

Next weeks Hot Topic will be: 

What was your best RC Car?

The car that won you the most races. The one that rarely failed on you. The one that suited your skill and style. Any class and scale. Please join in with the hot topic on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/rcclubhub 

 

RC Pit Talk: RC Pit Talk News

Jack Lander Endurance Race 2024

Jack Lander Endurance Race Raises £900 for Muscular Dystrophy UK

On Sunday, 27th October, the Rotherham RC Club hosted a fantastic 6-hour endurance race for 1/10th scale touring cars, all in honour of the late Jack Lander. Jack, a talented young racer brimming with personality and promise, was a beloved part of the RC racing community. This charity event was organised to raise funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK in his memory, and it did not disappoint!

With eight teams at the starting line, the race was packed with action as the teams pushed their limits over the long haul. Seven of the eight teams managed to finish the challenging race. Altogether, the event raised an incredible £900, all of which will go directly to support Muscular Dystrophy UK.

Sheffield RC Racing came out in top form, fielding two teams who claimed the top spots on the podium. In an intense finish, Team Cyclops (using wheel-based transmitters) edged out their sister team on sticks by just six laps to secure first place. Team DDR Racing rounded out the podium, adding to the excitement.

The Jack Lander Endurance Race was not only a wonderful tribute to a young talent but also a day of fun racing. Thank you to everyone who took part, donated, and cheered on from the sidelines—your support made this event a resounding success.

 

BRCA Announces New Sportscar Endurance Championship

BRCA Announces New Sportscar Endurance Championship

Adding even more excitement to the endurance scene, the BRCA has just announced plans for a brand new Sportscar Endurance Championship! While official details are yet to be released, the BRCA has confirmed that this thrilling new series will feature 1/10th scale cars and teams of four drivers.

The introduction of this championship marks a fantastic addition to the BRCA’s offerings and is sure to appeal to endurance racing fans across the country. With a focus on teamwork and strategy, this series promises to bring a new level of challenge to 1/10th scale racing.

Stay tuned for more updates as we look forward to more information on the championship’s format, rules, and schedule. 

If you have a Pit Talk News you would like announcing, please email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

 

RC World News:

2024 RC Touring Car World Championships

What happened at the IFMAR Touring Car World Championships 2024

This year’s RC Touring Car World Championships, held at Finishline RC Raceway in California, was an unforgettable event – possibly one of the best ISTC world championships yet! The track provided a smaller, high-grip surface with grip levels that changed throughout the weekend, making it challenging for racers to find the perfect car setup.

There was plenty of excitement around new car models making their debut at the event. Team Associated introduced their TC8, Mugen Seiki had two secret MTC3s racing, and Serpent brought an unnamed chassis that performed strongly. Most teams struggled with the track’s tricky grip in qualifying, but two racers stood out: Bruno Coelho from Xray and Michal Orlowski from Schumacher were consistently the fastest, with others close behind.

In the Stock class, Simon Lauter from Awesomatix dominated qualifying and carried his impressive form into the finals, securing the Stock World title with ease.

The Modified finals were incredibly close, with overtaking opportunities hard to find. Marc Rheinard won the first final (A1) to take an early lead, but Orlowski bounced back with a win in A2. By the third final (A3), five different racers – all using different chassis – still had a shot at the title. Ultimately, Bruno Coelho won A3 and claimed his third consecutive World TC title, showing why he’s at the top of his game.

For more detailed information about the cars, results, and highlights, visit redrc.net.

 

 

Featured Events

BRCA LMP12 National 2024-5 Stock GP Round 2 @ Hednesford Indoor Raceway

BRCA LMP12 National 2024-5 Stock GP Round 2 @ Hednesford Indoor Raceway

Sunday 16 November 

For information and updates visit the sections Facebook Page here: https://www.facebook.com/BRCA12c 

 

 

Cool Wall Submissions

Body Shell Cool Wall 12 November 24

A - Team Donuts - Jack Lander Endurance TC 

Verdict: Great simple retro TC livery. Although we love a good kitchen top picture, we're not sure it's the best place for an RC car. But the location can't spoil this challenger that raced for a great cause. It definitely makes it onto our cool wall. 

B - Simon Hutchinson - Vikings Valhalla Tribute Hot Hatch Shell

Verdict: We are very impressed at how well this car pops from using dark colour. It's a great looking tribute to a great TV show. There is room for this warrior on the wall. 

C - Marc Rheinard RC - Worlds 2024 livery

Verdict: The barrier balance looks a little risky but the California track and sunset save the day. We also love the roof detailing too. Another picture fit for the wall. 

Submit your body designs via our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/rcclubhub 

 

ClubHub SteveClubHub Steve

Steve runs RcClubHub in his spare time when he's not racing or helping to run Sheffield RC Racing. He lives in Sheffield and has over 20 years of experience in building and racing RC Cars.