HPI Mini Trophy Truck in the flesh

HPI Racing is finally releasing some real imagery of their new 1/12 scale desert racer, the Mini-Trophy.  As we reported last week, the Mini-Trophy has been designed in conjunction with full scale racing team TSA Motorsports.  Now that we have some real pics of it we can see some of the crazy detail that HPI has pumped into this all new platform.  A massively complicated tube roll-cage wraps all the insides to keep them safe and cozy.  The tires feature raised lettering and two spare wheel/tire sets are included and attached to the rear of the cage.  A multi-piece body tops it all off. But to me, the most interesting design aspect of the Mini-Trophy is the rear suspension which features a-arm lowers connected to beefy trailing links that hold the lower shock mounts.  Other links connect to various parts of the chassis to keep it all together.  It had me fooled as I thought it was a solid rear axle at first, but it’s fully independent in the rear.  You can also see underneath the hinged portion of the roll-cage a massive differential housing with a thick drive shaft going into it.  This is also where the ESC sits.  The rest of the electronics appear to sit under the detailed driver/navigator interior.

This is an awesome new truck, I can’t wait to see one in person and totally dissect it.  Keep an eye on HPI’s web site for more details and pictures.

HPI Racing Mini Trophy gallery