This kit is due Spring/Summer 2024 and is open for pre-order now. We do not at this time have any sort of firm date. Limited numbers may come in the first batch - pre-ordering is recommended to improve your chance.  Note: When you pre-order, you do not pay until release (unless you want to) but you must supply a valid card during checkout so that we can charge you when the model arrives.
  
As with all Tamiya kits, supply cannot be guaranteed as deliveries are often cut short by the manufacturer due to worldwide demand, please use the PRE-ORDER payment system with your credit or debit card, rather than paying by Paypal or Credit Card (Pay Now) options for this. Note also, Tamiya kits do not come shrink wrapped in the UK or Japan.

The Squash Van is a fun-to-drive big tire vehicle that is inspired by 1950’s American panel vans. The polycarbonate body shell sits on top of the new gear-driven 4WD GF-02 chassis, which is a variant of the comical GF-01. While the GF-01 chassis features a comical design, the GF- 02 chassis employs a more realistic wheelbase and a frame with ladder and pipe motifs.

This Limited-Edition version of the kit includes the body which is pre-painted in Cobalt Green (PS-54) with White (PS-1) roof and Smoke (PS-31) windows, pre-cut wheel arches and pre-made body mount holes, which is great for not only beginners but also R/C veterans.

GF-02 chassis
The gear-driven 4WD GF-02 chassis features its motor in a low, central position in the lightweight, durable monocoque frame, and transmits power to front and rear via gears. The long wheelbase and wide tread setup ensure stable off-road performance. The slim frame features ladder/pipe motifs and features integrated sealed gearboxes which help keep stones out. Front and rear gear differentials allow smooth cornering, while separately sold pinion gears offer a choice from three types of gear ratios, and a motor guard enhances reliability off-road. The 4-wheel double wishbone suspension employs four friction dampers, and the steering servo is positioned on the left with identical-length tie-rods.

Pricing Note: We have priced this kit above, as we do the whole range, assuming that you will not require the standard ESC unit.  If you would like the kit with the ESC included, simply add the Carson Dragster or Tamiya Hobbywing ESC from the drop down below - which adds £15-£18 to the total.  Note also, Tamiya kits do not come shrink wrapped in the UK or Japan. The box sticker may state "ESC Included" whether you order it with or without this unit.
 
Options Explained

Bearing Upgrade: These make the car run more smoothly and are easily installed during assembly. If there is no option for these shown, then the kit already includes the bearing upgrade as standard. These are entirely optional.

Radio System: There is a choice of a TWIN STICK (Traditional) radio or a Steering Wheel (Modern) radios. All operate on 2.4Ghz and use the new Crystal-Free technology, so you can run multiple cars at the same time without any interference. All radios chosen from this page will include a steering servo as these are not included in the kit itself.

ESC: This is the connection between the radio system and the motor. You have several choices. The standard Tamiya unit is currently unavailable due to the chip shortage, so Tamiya are offering a choice of a Tamiya Hobbywing or Carson Dragster (Tamiya Germany) units. Where a model number is shown (e.g. 20 or 15) that is the motor capacity of the unit - the lower the number, the more powerful a motor you can install later. All work with the motor in the kit.

Battery: The higher the number, the longer the run time.

Charger: Charge time is proportional to the battery you choose. Some examples - for the 1800 battery (others will take longer) - USB charger takes around 4 hours, Mid Speed around 2 to 3 hours, Etronix Fast Charger can be as quick as 30 minutes in the house and Ansmann Delta also around 30 minutes (and also works in the car).