DiecastAudio is proud to welcome TomsDiecastCars.com as the newest advertiser here on the site. Tom’s offers a wide variety of Hot Wheels products as well as various lines from Johnny Lightning, GreenLight and Racing Champions.

For a limited time, DiecastAudio readers can take advantage of a 5% discount off of all purchases by using the promo-code “DIECASTAUDIO.” Give’em a try next time you’re looking to make a purchase for your collection and let use know what you think!

Collectors have been raving about GreenLight’s Hot Pursuit line and have certainly been letting them know about it. The result is another all new line-up of great police cruisers for your collecting enjoyment that should be appearing at retail in December.

Here’s the official announcement from GreenLight:

GreenLight puts the “Hot” in Series 5 release of Hot Pursuit

It has been one hot year for GreenLight’s Police themed product line appropriately named “Hot Pursuit”

Indianapolis, IN (November 2, 2010) The collectors were the ones that breathed life into this series with their requests of GreenLight to manufacture a entire police themed product line.  The first release debuted in August 2009 and since then Hot Pursuit has developed into quite the staple item at mass market stores, hobby shops and the shelves of all GreenLight Fans.  This will make a total of three releases for Hot Pursuit in 2010 and collectors can expect many more to come.

Series 5 has incorporated major metropolitan area departments such as Kansas and Houston.  As well as the first time that the classic sheriff brown / tan exterior paint scheme has been utilized.

1:64 Hot Pursuit Series 5:

1965 Ford Galaxie Westwood, Massachusetts Police

2008 Dodge Charger Kansas City, KS Police

2008 Dodge Charger Houston, TX Police

2008 Ford Crown Victoria New York State Police

2008 Ford Crown Victoria Vanderburgh County (Evansville, IN) Sherriff

2009 Ford Mustang Edmonton, Alberta Canada Police

These die-cast replicas feature opening hoods, detailed engines, real rubber tires, metal body and chassis, detailed graphics, custom license plates and are officially licensed by the respective automobile companies.  Quantities are limited to 8000 units of each car and will be available at GreenLight Hobby Retailers, Distributors, Target, TRU, and Meijer stores beginning in December 2010.

This past week GreenLight Collectibles introduced the upcoming release of a special Route 66 themed 15 car, 1:64th scale collector set that features some of their most popular castings. The set is due to hit Toys ‘R Us shelves exclusively this November. Here is the official press release from GreenLight:

Travel the GreenLight way, Get your kicks on 1:64 Route 66

GreenLight introduces a 15 case collector pack that features history and prestige in 1:64 scale

Indianapolis, IN (October 19, 2010) Pack your bags, GreenLight is taking collectors on a cross country road trip down the infamous Route 66 U.S.A.  The 15 car set will be packaged in a display Collector case with a road map packaging that marks out the “Mother Road” as it journeys through each of the eight states from Chicago to L.A.  The cars chosen for this highly collectible item all belong, like the route itself, to the Golden age of motoring.

Route 66 U.S.A was constructed many years before the superhighways of today, used as the primary means of travel for people motoring westward.  It is a part of American motorist evolution and is as hard to define as it is to forget.  The Route pulls its nostalgia from those travelers of yester-year that took to the pavement with a sense of adventure and GreenLight translates this period of history through a mix of retro and modern-day cars.  Many of the cars also are first uses, the 1964 Chrysler Convertible, 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster, 1988 Ford Mustang GT Stock and 2011 Ford Shelby GT 500 Convertible all debut behind the first-ever 15 pack premier packaging.

  The collector packaging highlights eight of the most popular sights and scenes on the west bound journey, from the Launch Pad in Illinois to the Cadillac Ranch in Texas to the Wigwan Hotel in California.  The extraordinary and eccentric stops offered, affirm the saying that “it’s not the destination, but the journey”.  These quirky stomping grounds acted as rest areas for the hungry and tired travelers, oasis’s of entertainment on the lengthy stretch of road, marking fun and unique memories of the highway that’s the best, Route 66.

1:64 Route 66’s 15 Car Assortment:

1959 Chevy Corvette                                         1964 Chrysler 300K

1965 Ford Galaxie 500                                       1965 Ford Mustang GT

1967 Dodge D-100                                            1968 Chevy Impala SS

1969 Buick GS California                                   1969 Plymouth Road Runner 440

1970 Ford Mustang Conv.                                  1971 Dodge Challenger R/T

1971 Pontiac GTO                                             1978 Plymouth Duster

1988 Ford Mustang GT                                      2010 Chevy Camaro SS

2011 Shelby GT-500 Convertible

All materials used are authentic with real rubber tires and 100% die-cast metal body and chassis.  Detailed graphics, custom license plates, serialized and official licensing by the respective automobile companies make each of these cars correct and credible replicas. Quantities are limited to 4,260 15-car sets open to the public mid-November 2010 and will be available exclusively at Toys ‘R’ Us, Toysrus.com and Toys ‘R’ Us Australia.

Greenlight Collectibles recently announce their participation in the “invitation-only” Boston Area Toy Collectors annual dinner event where they will have a pre-production version of their 1965 Ford Galaxie featuring the Westwood Massachusetts Police Department that will appear in Series 5 of the Hot Pursuit line. Here are all the details from GreenLight’s official press release:

GreenLight Collectibles will exhibit at the 10^th Annual Boston Area Toy Collectors Club

This Prestigious Annual National Toy Event will add GreenLight to their line-up of toy companies displayed for Hobby Enthusiasts

Boston, MA (August 17, 2010) As a company that can transcend so many merchandising categories, GreenLight feels honored that it can fit into so many different facets of the hobby industry.  Greenlight is first and foremost a diecast collectibles item, for its high quality, low production run and selective availability in the market.  However, GreenLight is also an automotive enthusiast product and a toy collectors pride and joy.

The Boston Area Toy Collectors Club (BATCC) holds an annual event dating back ten years, in which through invitation only, members and their guests are treated to exhibits, speakers, giveaways and sneak peeks into some of the most popular toy manufactures in the country.  The BATCC and GreenLight have worked together for the 10^th Annual National Collectible Toy Event to introduce new and up-coming product as well as make some local news.

1:64 Hot Pursuit is one of GreenLight’s most successful series, the series is a collection of Police themed vehicles all officially licensed by the representing police department.  Massachusetts’s town of Westwood will have an influential part of 1:64 Hot Pursuit as their 1965 Ford Galaxie, will be included in the up-coming Series 5 assortment.  GreenLight will present a pre-production mock-up of the model at the Toy Collectors Event and the Westford Police Department will take this opportunity to pose for photographs with the early mock-up and possibly make headlines in the diecast and police industry.

GreenLight has also acted on furthering their 18^th scale offerings with their highly anticipated release of the 2010 Mustang GT and Shelby GT500’s.  Both cars are available in two color schemes and both have graced the covers of The Car Room Magazine Vol.2, No.3 and The Diecast Magazine Issue #8.  GreenLight will provide a model of the 1:18 2010 Torch Red Mustang Shelby GT 500 to be displayed along with The Diecast Magazine Cover, for which it was spotlighted.

Through exhibiting at the 10^th Annual National Collectible Toy Event GreenLight hopes to introduce its product to a new group of toy hobbyists as well as reach out to current diecast enthusiasts with their ever growing product lines and expanding range of merchandise. Happy Collecting!

GreenLight has also arranged for a variety of their scaled models to be awarded as raffle prizes and silent auction pieces.

If you would like to be sent an invitation to this year’s Event and see pictures from previous Boston Area Toy Collector Club Events please visit www.bostontoyclub.com

For more information on GreenLight Collectibles please visit www.greenlighttoys.com

I’ll be attending the BATCC event later this month with The Car Room Magazine, so stay tuned for photos of the pre-production piece and more.

Here’s a look at some of the latest Greenlight products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

Hot Pursuit Release 4: These are Target Exclusives along with authorized dealers. You will see them in Target stores by August. This release includes:

-1:64 1991 Ford Mustang Wisconsin State Patrol 
-1:64 2008 Dodge Charger Florida Highway Patrol
-1:64 2008 Dodge Charger Iowa State Patrol
-1:64 2008 Crown Victoria (White) Indiana State Police
-1:64 2008 Crown Victoria Virginia State Police
-1:64 2009 Dodge Challenger Broward County, Florida Sherriff

The Greenlight 1:18 scale line has a couple of new releases coming this month to dealers and TRU stores. A VW bug and a VW Micro Bus come to you through the Black Bandits name; And a 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601, only through dealers.

There seems to be a few other changes happening at Greenlight these past few months. They may be dropping some of their lines and adding some new ones. One noticeable change is the addition of a new line called “GL Muscle".” This looks to be replacing the Muscle Car Garage line with Release 1 coming out soon.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club

Today, GreenLight announced the upcoming third release of their popular 1:64 scale Motor World series. Volkswagen fans will be happy to see that they’ve included not one, not two, but three different versions of their popular Samba Bus casting!

Click the image to see a larger version

Here is the official press release from GreenLight:

GreenLight Collectibles has the World in the Palm of their Hand

Highly successful 1:64 Motor World introduces its third release and continues to shine the spot light on International Car Models

Indianapolis, IN (July 14, 2010) As motor vehicles become increasingly vital to everyday life, the automotive industry has grown to be one of the most important economic sectors and viable enterprises in existence.  This revenue is one that proves to be essential to the well being of the respective manufacturing countries.  These countries that produce the cars that we internationally adore are the focus of GreenLight Collectible’s highly successful series 1:64 Motor World.

GreenLight’s greatness has hit pandemic proportions as its reaches every corner of the globe.  To continue to move forward with this conquering reputation GreenLight created the third release of 1:64 Motor World representing global manufacturers as well as appealing to international and domestic die cast collectors.  The 1:64 Motor World Series is also the most economical line offered by GreenLight with a MSRP of $2.99.

1:64 Motor World Series 3 is sectioned into three different sub-series- Classics, American, and Speed.  Those cars that are placed into the “Classic” sub-set are distinguished vehicles, well-known for their appearance and performance.  The “America” collection contains manufacturers indigenous to the home of the brave and “Speed” sub-series include those vehicles that could rip the road apart.

1:64^th Motor World Series 3 includes the following twelve vehicles:

• Classics – 1958 Porsche 356A Carrera Speedster – Blue
• Classics – Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – Red and White (Firestone)
• Classics – Mini Cooper – Red with Black Stripes and Top
• Classics – Volkswagen Samba Bus – Yellow with White Top
• Classics – Volkswagen Samba Bus – Beige with Olive Green Top
• Classics – Volkswagen Samba Bus – Teal with White Top
• American – 1955 Chevy Bel-Air – Black with Grey Top and Silver Trim
• American – 1956 Ford F-100 – Black
• American – 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C – Blue
• American – 1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am – Black
• Speed – 2003 Dodge Viper SRT/10 – Yellow
• Speed – Jaguar E-Type – Midnight Navy

All twelve cars from Series 3 will be available at Toys ‘R’ Us and Gordmans throughout the United States and through GreenLight Hobby Distributors/Wholesalers and Online Dealers around the world beginning in September 2010.

1:64 Motor World die-cast model cars feature 100% authentic metal bodies, plastic chassis, authentic detailed wheels and are officially licensed by the respective automobile companies.  As with GreenLight Collectibles offerings, the “Green Machine” chase car program carries over into the Motor World line with 2% of the production run manufactured in alternate schemes to provide the marketplace with the rare vehicles the collector craves.

Earlier this month GreenLight Collectibles announced a new 1:18 scale 1965 Shelby Daytona CSX2601 that will be available in July at hobby shops and wholesale dealers.

Here is the official press release from GreenLight:

Indianapolis, IN (June 22, 2010) Fully restored and wearing its famous Reims livery, the 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601, frequently referred to as “American Racing’s Crown Jewel”, sold for a record-breaking $7.25 million at Mecum’s inaugural Monterey, California Auction on August 15, 2009. A car with this amount of notoriety is very much deserving of recognition and GreenLight has decided to do just that with its production of a 1:18 scale replica to tribute this incredible chart-busting auction accomplishment and legendary piece of racing history.

This Shelby Daytona Cobra was one of six cars built by Carroll Shelby to compete against the dominant Ferraris in the F.I.A. (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) World Manufacturers Championship for GT race class in 1965. The coupe body was an experimental design and was built on an existing Cobra chassis; these modifications increased the top speed by 25 MPH, allowing for the Cobra to keep pace with the highly regarded Ferraris. After the car won its first race, five more coupes were built including the CSX2601.

After competing at many racing events, CSX2601 made its history when it seized the 1965 World Manufacturers Championship for the United States. Steering the U.S. into that victory was legendary driver Bob Bondurant. “I always wanted to race in Europe against the world’s best drivers. Winning that World Championship was the crowning achievement of my career,” shared Bondurant.

Join GreenLight and celebrate one of the proudest moments in U.S. race history with this official licensed 1:18 scale special edition. The 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601 represents a competitive spirit and victory against all odds. GreenLight’s model will have a limited production run of 1,900 pieces and a MSRP $39.99.

This 1:18 die-cast replica features a detailed engine, real rubber tires, metal body and chassis, detailed graphics, custom license plate and is officially licensed. The release is scheduled for arrival in July 2010 and will be available through official GreenLight official hobby shops and wholesale dealers. For more information about GreenLight’s 1:18 scale ‘65 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601 and other quality collectibles from GreenLight, visit http://www.greenlightcollectibles.com.

My multi-part pictorial post on GreenLight’s current Motor World release concludes with the Classics Series. Castings for this series include the Land Rover Range Rover, the Volkswagon 30, the Volkswagon Samba Bus, the Mercedes Sprinter and the Mini Cooper. Be sure to check out Part 1 and Part 2 of this pictorial series if you happened to miss them!

Click any image to see the larger versions

My multi-part pictorial post on GreenLight’s current Motor World release continues with the All American Series. Castings for this series include the Ford F-100, the Shelby Cobra 427 S/C, the Chevy Bel Air and the Cadillac Eldorado. Check out the Speed Series from Motor World Release 2 in Part 1 of this pictorial set.

Click any image to see the larger versions

Stay tuned for Part 3 featuring the Classics Series!

GreenLight Collectible’s Motor World line provides a variety of castings that cover both American and European car makers. The selection in each release certainly provides something for every type of collector at a price point that allows the budget-minded 1:64 scale collector to step up into a product that provides a bit more more detail than the other mainstream brands.

Each Motor World casting features exceptional body detail and paint as well as fantastic wheel detail at this scale. A selection of the pieces come with rubber tires while others come with plastic, and all Motor World castings come with plastic bases which allows GreenLight to keep the price low compared to the their premium collector lines.

This pictorial features the 3 castings that are part of the “Speed Series” within Motor World Release 2. Stay tuned for the “Classics” and “All American” Series pictorials coming later this week.   

One of the biggest challenges a diecast manufacturer faces is getting the proper “mileage” out of each casting’s tool. Companies who specialize in realistic diecast replicas feel that pressure even more by having to stay within the constraints of authentic paint colors and design.

GreenLight Collectibles certainly falls into that category, yet they continue to excel and succeed with creative lines that collectors continue to enjoy year after year. Their County Roads series is a line that offers a wide selection of appealing vehicles that would all be right at home cruising the the back country roads on the out-skirts of a sleepy town.

The 6 castings that make up County Roads Series 4 strike a nice balance of muscle, 4-door sedan and classic work truck that covers 4 different decades. Those castings include the 1968 Chevrolet C-10 Pickup, the 1970 Pontiac GTO, the 1977 Dodge Ramcharger, the 1987 Pontiac Firebird Formula, the 2006 Ford Crown Victoria (Laconia, NH Fire Dept.) and the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO. 

Click any photo to see the larger version

Each vehicle in the series features rubber tires and a full metal body and chassis. The production run is limited to just 4500 pieces and each car is individually numbered on the chassis.

GreenLight’s extremely limited “Green Machine” Chase Cars are part of this series and are produced at only 2% of the run. They are randomly inserted in cases and of course, very hard to find at retail. Buying sealed cases is your best chance of getting your hands on one!

County Roads Series 4 is currently on its way to brick and mortar retailers, and online retailer are currently taking pre-orders for sets and cases. The MSRP for single pieces is $5.99 USD.

Series 1 of GreenLight’s new 1:64th scale Dioramas line was a major hit and the Series 2 is looking to share the same success. Here’s the official press release from GreenLight:

Scenes from your favorite GreenLight Collectible Collections Steal the Show

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 19, 2010) When GreenLight launched a brand new line entitled 1:64^th GreenLight Dioramas, the team envisioned it being a success. GreenLight knew this would be a popular line, but was ecstatic when the first assortment SOLD OUT prior to arrival! After the extraordinary success of Series 1, GreenLight is gearing up for the second release of 1:64^th Dioramas in May! “If you were impressed by the first wave of 1:64 Dioramas then Series 2 will blow you away!” says Jeff Nelson, National Sales Manager. Series 2 is composed of four different scenes including Bullitt, Hot Pursuit, County Roads and a brand new theme, Hitchin’ a Ride.

The revised Bullitt scene features the two famous cars later in the chase scene just as the crash occurs complete with scrapes and bullet holes in the models. County Roads captures the spirit of the 60’s with a light green Large Camper painted with peace signs and flowers. Hot Pursuit features the 2010 Mustang GT Convertible being pulled over by a Nevada Highway Patrol Dodge Charger, while Hitchin’ a Ride features the very first taxis made by GreenLight.

1:64^th GreenLight Dioramas Series 2 Assortment includes:

• - Bullitt/Steve McQueen #2 -1968 Ford Mustang & 1968 Dodge Charger (Crash Scene, Damaged))
• - 1:64 Hot Pursuit- 2008 Nevada Highway Patrol Dodge Charger and 2010 Mustang GT Convertible +two Plastic Figurines
• - 1:64 Hitchin’ a Ride- Two 2006 Ford Crown Victoria Taxi Cabs + two Plastic Figurines
• - 1:64 County Roads- 1965 Dodge D-100 with Large Camper + two Plastic Figurines
•    

These replicas feature opening hoods, detailed engines, real rubber tires, metal body and chassis, detailed graphics, custom license plates and are officially licensed by Ford®, Chrysler Group LLC®, Chevrolet ®, Warner Bros® Entertainment Inc and the Chadwick McQueen and The Terry McQueen Testamentary Trust. Each scene will vary in production quantities ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 as some of dioramas will be solid packed as well as in assortments.This release will be available in May 2010 at Toys ‘R’ Us, Toys ‘R’ Us Australia, Kmart, Meijer and your favorite hobby shops and online dealers!

GreenLight LLC is a premier manufacturer and marketer of officially licensed, authentic die-cast replica vehicles. GreenLight die-cast replicas are available in 1:18^th, 1:24^th and 1:64^th scale and are officially licensed by General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler Group LLC, Carroll Shelby Licensing, Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, Tim Phelps, Grand-Am Road Racing Association, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and Bridgestone Americas.

Here’s a look at some of the latest products from GreenLight Collectibles that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit.

Hobby Collection Series, Release 5: ’10 Mustang GT; ’64 Plymouth Fury Sport; ’69 Ford Mustang BOSS 302; ’71 AMC Javelin AMX T/A; ’09 Corvette C6 convertible; and a ’67 Chevy Impala SS. All pictured below.

New Motor World, Release 2: ’55 Chevy; ’56 Ford F-100; BMW Z4; ’53 Caddy Eldorado; Jaguar XK; Lamborghini Gallardo; Land Rover Range Rover; Volkswagon 30; Mercedes Sprinter; Mini Cooper; ’65 Shelby Cobra; Volkswagon bus. All pictured below.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club.

Here’s a look at some of the latest products from GreenLight Collectibles that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

1/18th scale: ’67 Mustang racer in cream and black; and 2010 Shelby GT-500 cars both in bright Blue and Torch Red.

Muscle Car Garage - Release 12: ’66 Mustang GT; ’68 Hemi Road Runner; ’71 GTO Judge convertible; ’72 AMC Javelin AMX; ’09 Corvette ZO6 GT-1; and a ’10 Camaro SS.

Auction Block – Release 11: ’66 Shelby GT-350H; ’68 Plymouth GTX; ’69 Chevy Chevelle SS; ’70 Corvette LT-1 ZR-1; ’71 Charger R/T; ’10 Ford Shelby GT-500.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club.

The newest items from Greenlight come in the form of “Dioramas.” They are 1/64th scale cars set in a scene box for suitable display. Pictured below are the four starter pieces to kick off this new series.

Top Row: Bullitt/Steve McQueen (1968 Ford Mustang and 1968 Dodge Charger); Auction Block (2010 Chevy Camaro SS – auction attendee characters included).

Bottom Row: County Roads (1972 Chevy C-10 w/Camper – camper characters included); Hot Pursuit (2008 Ford Crown Victoria and 2009 Chevy Corvette C6 – police officer character included).

*Pictures courtesy of Greenlighttoys.com.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The “In the Stores” column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club

GreenLight Toys has been a great supporter of all the DiecastSpace.com convention right from the get-go and 2010 is certainly no different. This week collectors are treated to a first look at the flat artwork of GreenLight’s 2010 Super Convention car.

This 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 is a brand new casting, and its making its debut in a promo run for the Super Convention. The final piece will come dressed in Kona Blue Metallic with White Stripes and will sport the convention logo on the roof.

A total of 1008 pieces are being produced for the convention. 912 of those will be Regular Version cars and the remaining 96 will be Green Machines. As an added bonus, GreenLight Toys will be offering a special deal for convention goers. Collectors who buy 5 regular version cars will receive a Green Machine for FREE!

Tickets for the 2010 Super Convention and special events are still available in limited quantities. Be sure to visit the official 2010 Super Convention website for more information on tickets and accommodations.

Fresh off the glimpse of the 2010 Super Convention Dinner Dairy we got a short while ago is this look at a raw, unpainted version of 2010 Shelby Mustang from GreenLight that attendees of the VIP Admin Party will receive. I think this is just the tip of the iceberg for the sneak peeks with just a few months left until the main event.

Click any image to see the larger version

Be sure to visit the official Super Convention website for information on tickets, accommodations and event activities.

Muscle Car Garage “Up in Flames” release 2 is coming at the end of October into November.

The series will include: ’66 Ford Galaxie; ’67 Chevy Corvette; ’69 Buick GS; ’70 Plymonth Road Runner; ’71 Chevy C-10; ’09 Dodge Challenger

*Pictures courtesy of Greenlight.com.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The “In the Stores” column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club

This time around we heat up the show with a great interview featuring Tim Phelps who authored the book “Up in Flames: The Art of Flame Painting” and is the driving force behind GreenLight Collectible’s popular “Up in Flames” series. Tim and I talk about his career as an Associate Professor and Medical Illustrator at John Hopkins University, his passion for flamed diecast, the process of writing the book and his awesome collaboration with GreenLight.

About “Up in Flames: The Art of Flame Painting” (from Amazon.com)
Flame painting first lit up the hot rod world more than 50 years ago—and it’s still burning strong. At the heart of the art are a handful of innovators who have pushed the tradition to ever-greater heights over the past half-century—and these are the artists profiled in this book. Up in Flames introduces readers to the flame painters who best represent the talent and inspiration that give this particular art form its power, and whose stories best illustrate the evolution of the flame job.

The profiled flame artists are: Dave Bell, Don “The Egyptian” Boeke, Robert E. “Bobbo” Dunn, Pete “Hot Dog” Finlan, Craig Fraser, Jack “The Italian” Giachino, Cary Greenwood, Art Himsl, Keith Knecht, Herb “The Line Doctor” Martinez, Tommy “Itchy” Otis, Rory Pentecost, Rod Powell, “Yosemite” Sam Radoff, Dennis Ricklefs, George Roybal, Steve Vandemon, and Mike “Wet” Willey.

Listen to the recorded show from the audio widget on this page or check out the catalog of previous shows on the Saturday Nitro page.

The diecast collecting hobby recently suffered a great loss with the recent passing of Shane Whittenbarger on August 5, 2009. While I personally had only know Shane for a little more than a year, the impact of his presence in the diecast community was unsurpassed, and it became readily apparent how amazing Shane was only after knowing him for such a short time. I’m proud to have had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.

Many people might have known Shane as an up-standing collector, a tireless worker, a dedicated father and as someone you could always count on to get the job done. Not only was he a major force in helping ensure that the 2009 DiecastSpace Super Convention was as successful as it was, but he was also the producer for Saturday Nitro and always made sure there was an amazing guest lined up for me to interview for your entertainment. I am honored to have called him a friend.

Now that Shane’s battle with cancer has ended, the reality of his funeral expenses has come to light. Its an expense that without financial assistance, would force Shane’s parents to mortgage their home to cover. In honor of Shane, members of the diecast collecting community are stepping up to bare the financial burden. Amazing companies such as GMP Diecast, Liberty Promotions and GreenLight Collectibles have donated some amazing pieces to help raise funds at several upcoming charity auctions.

Beyond that I am asking you, my fellow collector and DiecastAudio reader, to consider donating to our cause via the Chip-In widget on the right column of the site. Clicking the Chip-In button will bring you to PayPal where you can contribute with a credit card or your own personal PayPal account. The Chip-In donations are being managed by Mr. Jerry Yates who is an Administrator at DiecastSpace.com.

Please get in touch with me personally via the contact page if you are not comfortable donating with that method, but would still like to contribute. I would be more than happy to provide you with my mailing address to apply a donation via personal check to the cause. Each an every dollar gets us closer to our goal of making sure Shane is remembered in a way that he and his family deserve.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Jeff Glasson
DiecastAudio.com

Are you a member of GreenLight’s Under the Hood Club? If not, then I should let you know that one of the cool benefits of club membership is access to club-only sales featuring limited runs of some of coolest and most detailed cars that GreenLight makes!

Their new 1970 Pontiac GTO (in 1:64 scale) just became available as club car for new Under The Hood Club members. Existing club members will have the opportunity to pick this piece up as well when it goes on sale in the club store at 9pm EST on Saturday, June 27th.

What about a Green Machine version of the GTO you ask? Well, club members will be able to buy 3 regular version cars with a matching Green Machine for $60 (USD). GreenLight has made this type of offer in the past with the club Mustangs and Chevelles, so membership definitely has its privileges!

Be sure to check out the official Under The Hood Club website for more information on becoming a member.

Matthew Elliot, Director of Production for GreenLight Collectibles joins Saturday Nitro to talk about the history of GreenLight, their unique product lines and the role he plays in ensuring GreenLight continuously delivers the great die-cast replicas collectors have fallen in love with. We also chat about Green Machines, Up in Flames and Black Bandits, as well as GreenLight’s upcoming involvement in the Hotlanta Collector Experience.

Listen to the recorded show from the audio widget on this page or check out the catalog of previous shows on the Saturday Nitro page.

The folks over at DiecastLive.com have recently announced one of the biggest contests in the site’s history. Starting on Easter Sunday (April 12th, 2009) through Mother’s Day (May 10th, 2009) collectors will have the opportunity to win a FREE GreenLight Green Machine each day during that time period.

The basic rules are simple:

• - Purchase at least (1) DCL WhiteHot Charger Club Car (available on the DCL homepage).
• - Match your car’s number to the Michigan State Lottery each night during the contest period.
• - You win a Green Machine if your car’s number matches the lottery pick!

You MUST own a regular DCL WhiteHot Charger to play. A minimum of 5 Green Machines (with a max of 30) will be given away during the contest period! See the official thread on DiecastLive.com for a FAQ answering many questions about the contest.

[via diecastlive.com]

I had the fortunate opportunity to host the Ridemakerz Designer Round-Table Luncheon during at the 2009 DiecastSpace.com Super Convention. The event consisted of a panel that included Larry Wood, Carson Lev, George Barris, Luis Tanahara, Larry Andreini from Ridemakerz, Robert Russell from Shelby Collectibles, HWC Ryan from Mattel, Sean Taylor from M2, Chris Walker, Lee Pearlman from Liberty Promotions, as well as Jeff Nelson and Katie Roland from GreenLight.

The large panel only allowed for the opportunity to ask a small handful of questions since it took a decent amount of time to get through guests answers. At one point during the discussion I glanced over to see Larry Wood, “Big Lou” Tanahara and Carson Lev all doodling on their noted pads! At the end of the discussion I was lucky enough to snag two of the three drawings.

Click either image to see them up close

You’ll notice that Larry’s piece (pictured on the left) has “Door Knob Grille” written on it. He drew that part while George Barris was telling the story of how he and his brother “kustomized” their first car by putting their mother’s kitchen cabinet door knobs on the grille of their 1928 Buick – too cool!

I’m not sure who was lucky enough to grab Carson’s drawing, but I’ve heard it was an equally cool piece. Needless to say, these one-of-a-kind souvenirs will be framed and added to my collection as a perfect reminder of why I love this hobby so much! This round-table event was a dream to be a part of and I’m sure it will become a tradition at Super Conventions in the future.

Is it just me or does it seem that 2009 will be a great year to be a diecast collector? If there’s one thing to be said about our hobby, its there’s no shortage of diecast conventions in the near future! Here is a quick list of the best multi-day events happening across the country this year (listed in order of occurrence):

2009 DiecastSpace.com Super Convention
I’ve been talking about this “first of its kind” event for a while now, and its really shaped up to be one heck of a time! Its the first time almost all the major mainstream diecast manufacturers will be present under one roof. Mattel, Johnny Lightning, GreenLight, M2 and GMP as well as a gathering of the country’s top diecast customizers will descend on Las Vegas from February 18th – 22nd. If that wasn’t enough, the first ever Diecast Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be taking place to honor somme of the best names in diecast and the automotive industry.

Very few tickets are left to this great event. Visit the official Super Convention site for ticket availability and pricing.

9th Annual Hot Wheels Collectors Nationals
Unofficially dubbed the “East Coast” Hot Wheels Convention, this Mike Strauss run event moves from city to city each Spring. This year it lands back in Reston, Virginia from March 25th – 29th. The week is always packed full of great events and fantastic ion-room trading. This year’s special guests include Howard Reese, Mike McClone, Phil Riehlman, Wayne Scott and Larry Wood.

Tickets are on sale now and will be available until March 5th or when sold out (which ever comes first). They can be purchased online with a credit card or with a check and the mail-in form.

Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels 6
Randy Price’s Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels returns to Connecticut this year on July 30th – August 2nd. This year’s event will offer a variety of events including a Guinness Book of World Records attempt for the Longest Track. Convention vehiles are being produced by Mattel this year and special guests will include Larry Wood, Mike Zarnock, Bob Parker.

A variety of ticket packages are currently available on the official Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels 6 website.

Hot Wheels Summer Smash 2
Jim Lombari and the Rhode Island Hot Wheels Club are bringing the diecast fun back to Warwick on August 27th-30th for the 2nd Annual Hot Wheels Summer Smash. This year offers four full days of activities and convention vehicles from both Mattel and Liberty Promotions. Special guests include Larry Wood, George Soulakis, Mike Zarnock and Bob Parker.

The official Summer Smash website is up and tickets are now on sale.

23rd Annual Hot Wheels Collectors Convention
Traditionally the larger of the two “Strauss” conventions, this California based convention is usually the most grand seeing that Mattel is headquartered just up the road in El Segundo. Dates for this event typically land in October with the official announcement coming out shortly after the Nationals in Reston are over.

Some collectors felt that the 2008 convention was a little lacking in its 40th Anniversary year. Perhaps the 40th Anniversary cross-counrty tour drained a little bit too much from the coffer. It should be interesting to see how this convention compares to the others happening earlier in the year – especially since Mattel is participating in the all of them.

The world might be in an economic frenzy right now, but the future is certainly looking bright for the world of diecast!

In case you missed it, Greenlight Collectibles and the CW Television Network have joined forces to offer fans of both the TV show “Supernatural” and Greenlight diecast, a special treat. At the beginning of the month, Warner Home Video released “Supernatural – The Complete Third Season” on DVD.

Each DVD Box Set sold at Best Buy will contain a GreenLight Collectibles 1:64 scale 1967 Chevrolet Impala 427 die-cast car. The car was designed to be a replica of the Impala driven by Dean Winchester (played by Jensen Ackles) and Sam Winchester (played by Jared Padalecki) during season three.

The highly detailed ’67 Impala features:

• - A die-cast metal body and chassis
• - Gloss black body paint
• - A two-tone interior
• - Ohio “CNK 8003” license plate from the show

In total, there will be 26,500 DVD Box Sets available at Best Buy stores throughout the USA and Canada. This offering is not only a great opportunity for GreenLight collectors to add an excellent and unique piece to their collections, but also get a look at pretty decent television series as well!

[via greenlightcollectibles.com]

The guys at DiecastLive.com recently released these sneak peek “spy shots” to get collectors revved up for the upcoming release of their new 2008 club car. Once again they’ve teamed up with Greenlight Toys to produce an fantastic looking Daytona Charger that truly lives up the “White Hot” name its been given.

Each car ships with a custom backing card inside traditional sealed clamshell packaging. The entire run consists of 2016 cars that are made up of 1824 Regular Edition and 192 Green Machines. This year, the Green Machine will not only feature a white-to-green body, but will also come with a green interior, green bottom and green tires!

A recent price drop on the cars is really making this piece a great buy for collectors. Right now you can purchase (2) regular edition cars for just $9.99 (+S&H) which will give you the chance to have a Green Machine randomly inserted into your order (in place of a regular edition). Alternatively, you can guarantee yourself a Green Machine buy purchasing a Regular Edition and Green Machine with matching numbers for $49.99 (+S&H).

Pre-orders for the Charger are currently being accepted on the DiecastLive.com site and are available to DCL members only. Membership is free, so be sure to register first if you aren’t already part of the DCL community!

[via diecastlive.com]

As car enthusiasts, we’ve been able to enjoy drawings and photographs of it. As diecast collectors, we’ve been able get our hands on it from manufacturers like Jada Toys and GreenLight Collectibles. Now, AUTOBLOG.COM lets us know what its really like to experience one first hand!

Last week the folks at Autoblog got to spend time with the Hugger Orange hued Camaro Convertible Concept that GM brought out to California. The result is a great article with plenty of juicy “tid-bits” about what will present in the final production run of the car as well as an amazing photo gallery containing 52 shots of the beauty! Click the link below to make the jump over to their site for the full story.

[via autoblog.com]