Mattel Debuts Ultra-Hip Dropstars Custom Cars

April 2005 - Mattel just announced the launch of Dropstars - a hot new line of custom Hot Wheels die-cast vehicles and Tyco R/C remote control cars that reflect today’s coolest vehicles. The Dropstars line builds upon Mattel’s portfolio of vehicles that capture what’s currently hot on the streets, in authentic and highly-detailed collectible and working models.

While custom designs have always been popular attractions at car shows around the country, Dropstars represent a lifestyle that has emerged from the automotive underground in recent years with vehicles sporting elaborate rims, special detailing and often state-of-the-art audio/video systems.

To truly encapsulate the style and fresh vibe of these automotive works of art, the Mattel design team worked closely with leaders in the automotive aftermarket known within the car culture for driving the customizing trend. Dropstars die-cast and remote control vehicles are inspired by actual cars featured at leading auto shows, driven by celebrities and seen on television and in movies.

“Hot Wheels and Tyco R/C have a long history of identifying automotive trends and bringing them to the mass marketplace for collectors and car fans to enjoy, and Dropstars is the next evolution,” said Mark Sullivan, senior vice president, Mattel Brands. “With their body styles, features and exclusive car model offerings, Dropstars are the hottest line of vehicles right now.”

Just now hitting shelves, Dropstars die-cast mid-size vehicles (1:20 scale) have some of the most staggering detail on the market, with color-matched interiors and “chromed” engine compartments, opening doors, hood and trunk, aggressive body kits, and the signature Dropstars overscale sizing. Popular models scheduled for release are:

• Range Rover (available now)
• Chrysler 300C HEMI (available now)
• Ferrari 360 Spider (available now)
• Mercedes Benz SL55
• ’64 Lincoln Continental
• Cadillac XLR

Small scale (1:50) Dropstars die-cast vehicles are available now and feature such popular automotive models as:

• Maybach
• Cadillac Escalade
• Infiniti QX56
• Lincoln Continental

The Tyco R/C Dropstars line of radio controlled custom vehicles feature illuminated wheel wells, Phat Lip Ultra-Deep Dish Rims and soundtracks from the hottest hip hop artists. Scheduled for release this summer, the assortment will include the following cars:

• Chrysler 300C
• Dodge Magnum
• Land Rover Range Rover

Hot Wheels Dropstars small-size and mid-size vehicles are available at mass retail stores for $3.99 and 13.99, respectively. Tyco R/C Dropstars will be available in summer 2005 for $29.99 for 1:16 scale and $99.99 for 1:6 scale.

SOURCE Mattel, Inc.