EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – Mattel and the Indy Racing League have announced an exclusive four-year licensing partnership that will bring racing fans authentic Hot Wheels product featuring IndyCar Series drivers and teams.
The exclusive licensed product line will include highly detailed 1:64- and 1:24-scale Hot Wheels IndyCar Series assortment die-cast cars – showcasing many of the drivers and teams of the IndyCar Series ($4.99 and $24.99, respectively); kid-powered 1:12-scale Hot Wheels IndyCar Series Big Sounds cars with real racing sounds ($29.99); and the IndyCar Series 1:16-scale Tyco R/C ($29.99). Product will be available at major retailers nationwide starting this month, trackside at all IndyCar Series races and online at indycar.com.
"Speed, power and performance is at the core of the Hot Wheels heritage, which aligns perfectly with the on-track excitement the IndyCar Series brings to racing fans,” said Tim Kilpin, GM for Girls, Boys & Games, Mattel. "Our partnership with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the IndyCar Series, including drivers and teams, allows us to connect Hot Wheels fans of all ages with a real-world racing experience.”
2009 begins the “Centennial Era” at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a three-year celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the Speedway in 2009 and the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 in 2011.
“As we enter a significant period in the history of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, it is appropriate that two American icons have joined forces,” said Joie Chitwood, IMS president and COO. “We are excited to bring the rich history and heritage of the Brickyard and the excitement of IndyCar racing to millions of Hot Wheels collectors worldwide.”
The IndyCar Series season kicked off April 5 in St. Petersburg, Fla.
"We couldn’t be happier with our new partnership with Mattel’s Hot Wheels brand," said Terry Angstadt, president, commercial division for the Indy Racing League. "This is a wonderful opportunity for the IndyCar Series and its drivers and teams to have a major retail presence in front of consumers of all ages."
