Q&A - Carrera Revell

Hybrid theory

Toy World spoke to Carrera Revell’s Andrew Rawlinson about the launch of the company’s exciting new racing system, Carrera Hybrid.

How would you sum up the new Carrera Hybrid range?

Carrera Hybrid is a combination of digital gaming, racing simulations and real-world racing games, which also incorporates traditional RC and Slot influences. It is designed to appeal to all users within these categories and bridge the gaps between them.

What is your primary target audience? 

Pretty much anyone! The Carrera Hybrid app incorporates a ‘Career’ function that presents a series of driving challenges on different track configurations that can be built from standard set contents to increase driving skills and take players from ‘Rookie’ to ‘Legend’ as they unlock more of the app’s functionality. There’s also a virtual driving coach who’ll help to navigate the basics, which can be deactivated (and reactivated) once drivers are confident to carry on alone.

How does Hybrid work?

Carrera Hybrid cars are controlled via a free iOS/Android app. Steering works intuitively by tilting the smartphone or using virtual joysticks similar to an RC car. There is also an option to interface a smartphone with a suitable game controller, while we’ll be launching our own dedicated Carrera Hybrid controller later this year as an accessory.

Virtual buttons on the phone display show the accelerator and brake, plus other functions including a power boost. The design of the app is based on the cockpit of a real racing car, to offer a natural driving experience and appeal to motorsport enthusiasts. The cars automatically scan the track as they drive around it and know exactly where they are via the app. Adjustable AI supports steering and helps cars stay on the track and find the ideal racing line. This is deliberately set stronger for beginners and can be reduced as experience and driving skill grows, creating a more realistic race experience. The Hybrid app also includes vehicle-specific and situation-dependent engine, brake and gear shift sounds when driving.

What other functionality does the app have?

The Collection mode contains a virtual garage to store the cars in, plus an area where players record the various track sections they have, which then allows them to build, name and store tracks virtually and to physically build their track as designed.

As drivers progress from beginner to expert and accrue more points, greater car functionality is unlocked in the ‘Tuning’ section, allowing them to choose different tyres, gearing and brakes to best suit the track layout they’re racing on. These are all part of the AI, so there’s no need to make any physical changes to the cars, there’s even the option to select virtual tyre wear for added realism.

How does the racing aspect of Hybrid work?

The Hybrid app allows up to 16 cars to take part in a single race, either in person or virtually, online. Players can enjoy the race experience alone, or set to Multiplayer mode to race with friends, potentially anywhere in the world. There are multiple Game Mode options to choose from, including Hot Lap, Race and Endurance, while race durations can be set for all modes. There is also the option to have all cars race on the same settings or as individually adjusted by each driver.

How does Hybrid differ from other race systems?

Unlike traditional slot cars, Carrera Hybrid cars can recognise and follow the track without being tied to a lane: the scanning technology and built-in AI developed for this purpose is patent pending. A significant difference for the gaming experience is the realistic handling, which for the first time allows players to drive on the racing line as they would in real life, plus they can overtake at any point, which creates more dynamic and close racing. The adjustability possible with the cars adds to this, allowing each car to be tuned to achieve the fastest lap times for a given track layout.

How does a consumer get started?

They begin with a set which contains two cars with built-in rechargeable (and replaceable) LiPo batteries, charge cables for the cars, car maintenance tools and 6m of interlocking track that combines a mix of Start/Finish straight, general straight and curved sections. The track itself is modular, with 12 different layouts that can be built from the standard set contents. Additional cars can be purchased separately, while a number of expansion track packs and more specialist track sections are being launched this year to allow even more variety. There are no crash barriers to worry about as these are virtual, controlled via the app’s AI.

What cars are available?

Carrera Hybrid launches with the Porsche 911 GT3 R in various single-colour schemes, and we’ll be adding genuine race liveries to this car body this year. This will soon be followed by multiple liveried versions of the BMW M4 GT3 and Ford Mustang GT3. All Carrera Hybrid cars and any race liveries are officially licensed to ensure the greatest scale accuracy. All cars are built to exacting 1:50 scale with a vehicle length of around 95mm, while all cars feature working lights.

Depending on driving style, Carrera Hybrid cars can run for up to 30 minutes per charge, with a 20 minute re-charge time using the included charge cable.

Is the system complicated to operate?

The Hybrid system has been designed to be as intuitive as possible to use, allowing users to quickly navigate through the various features and settings of the app. In addition, a series of video tutorials are available to help demystify some of the more involved aspects. The more players use the app and drive the cars, the simpler it becomes.

When will Carrera Hybrid hit retail shelves?

 Carrera Hybrid will be available via specialist retailers and online from September 15th. The app continues to be refined, and functionality will be expanded through periodic updates. We’ve got a lot planned for the remainder of 2025 and 2026, so watch this space.

To find out more, contact 01296 660 291 or office.uk@carrera-revell.com.