RC2/Ertl stopping 1:18 model production?

[Hemidoug]

Just got an email from Supercar Collectibles saying Ertl is stopping production....Anyone know anything? Says they are going to lease their equipment to another model company.This is what they sent...

Here's the scoop and please read it all: We just got off the phone with our contact at RC2/Ertl Company. For 2008 RC2/Ertl will finish what has been announced, and then no longer will produce 1:18 die cast (keep reading). There is some good news! Their current tooling is to be leased out to a well known world wide company, that has been in the die cast business many years. We have been asked not to share the name quite yet, but a 2008 line up will be announced at a later date (date truly unknown at this time). We ask you to not bombard us with questions, emails, etc' as we have shared what we can. I think all of us(collectors, dealers, LE commissioners) owe Ertl, Ertl/Racing Champions, Ertl/RC2/Learning curve, and all/any names they have gone by over the years, a thank you for what they have done for all of us. I'm sure many of the old & new molds will still be used, but no longer by those at RC2/Ertl. And no, we do not know what exact car will be the last down the line. Rest assured, we here will keep you informed as we learn more on this.

Don't forget: If you pre-order items over $40 (individual items) you get free shipping & handling (to US48 states) if ordered before the cars arrive here. Once the cars arrive, all shipping charges apply.

Now: The items still expected here in January (link) some coming this week
Now: The items still expected here in February (link)
Now: The items still expected here in March (link)

We also would like to officially announce a brand new car: A new Supercar Collectibles limited edition of the 1965 Sox & Martin Plymouth.

If your in or near St. Paul, MN on January 25-27th come see us at our booth in the "collectibles area" at the World of Wheels car show. Click on World of Wheels for hours & admission prices.

As always click Just Arrived to see the newest items that are here. When we can share more about the previous RC2/Ertl molds and who may be getting them, we WILL let you know.

Thanks for the read, and happy collecting!

[pettyfan43]

The Die Cast and plastic kit end of "Learning Curve" (the current company name) has been for sale for a good while now.

They tried to peddle the two together for a LOT more than they were worth. Someone has leased or purchased the plastic kit end and that was leaked out a couple months ago, and now the die cast end has found a home.


Maybe the two new owners will make a good go of it.

[69bronzeT5]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, I WANT ERTL DIECASTS!!!!!



Guess I better buy ERTL ones when I can

[Just 6T9 CHGR]

Speaking of diecasts....anyone get the new 69 or 70 Chargers that Ertl is making?

[derailed]

I picked up a 69 yesterday at tractor supply for $13.95. Its nice except for the SS stripes  if thats the one your talking about

[69bronzeT5]

Sent them an email and got this in return.

"Thank you for your inquiry regarding Diecast models.  The company announced on 1/11/07 that it will discontinue its Racing Champions, JoyRide, Ertl and AMT die-cast and model kit automotive collectible product lines.  The Company plans to continue with its strategy to reposition its Johnny Lightning brand.  Production for 2007 will remained as planned at this time.     



More information regarding this announcement can be found at www.RC2Corp.com."

[Mike DC]

 
I hear the climbing price of zinc has really been whacking the die-cast car producers lately.