Description
Overview
The Tamiya Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 420 is a prestigious 1/14 scale RC tractor truck assembly kit that recreates Volvo's award-winning flagship truck from the 1990s. The FH series debuted in 1993 and was honored with the 1994 International Truck of the Year award, establishing Volvo as a leader in European long-haul trucking. This model faithfully captures the FH12's aerodynamically refined cab design and the powerful presence of a truck powered by a 12-liter intercooled turbo diesel engine.
Built on Tamiya's proven single rear axle tractor truck platform, the Volvo FH12 delivers European trucking excellence through its aluminum ladder-frame chassis, metal leaf spring suspension, and servo-shifted 3-speed transmission. The compact 2-axle configuration makes this an excellent choice for builders seeking authentic European proportions, while the proven Tamiya engineering ensures reliable performance and comprehensive trailer compatibility.
Key Features
- 1/14 scale RC tractor truck assembly kit with 440mm length, 188mm width, 295mm height
- Official Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 420 replica
- 1994 International Truck of the Year award winner
- Aerodynamic Globetrotter high-roof cab design
- Precision-molded ABS plastic body
- Aluminum ladder-frame chassis with resin cross members
- Single rear axle drive configuration
- Servo-shifted 3-speed transmission
- Metal leaf spring suspension front and rear
- Type 540 brushed motor included
- LED-ready light positions
Historical Significance
- 1994 International Truck of the Year award winner
- Powered by 12-liter intercooled turbo diesel "Euro 2" engine
- Became Volvo's primary truck platform in the 1990s
- Set new standards for European cab design and aerodynamics
- State-of-the-art engineering technology of its era
Chassis Features
- Aluminum side channels with resin cross members
- Front-mounted motor with propeller shaft drivetrain
- Single rear axle drive configuration
- 3-bevel differential gear
- Friction dampers front and rear
- Metal leaf springs for realistic suspension
- Wheelbase: 272mm
- Compact European truck proportions
Performance Benefits
- Authentic European truck driving dynamics
- Smooth cornering from rear differential
- Three gear ratios: 32.49:1, 17.76:1, 10.66:1
- Compact size ideal for European-style fleet builds
- Stable towing performance with 1/14 trailers
- Compatible with MFC light, sound, and vibration systems
Usage Notes
The Volvo FH12 Globetrotter is designed for on-road driving on smooth, hard surfaces. The ABS body is supplied unpainted in white, allowing builders to create custom European fleet liveries. A minimum 4-channel radio system is required for gear shifting control. The optional Tamiya MFC-01 or MFC-03 Multi-Function Control Unit adds diesel engine sounds, LED lights, turn signals, and vibration effects. Recommended for experienced builders ages 14 and up. Tamiya TS spray paints recommended for the ABS body.
Technical Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scale | 1/14 |
| Length | 440mm |
| Width | 188mm |
| Height | 295mm |
| Wheelbase | 272mm |
| Chassis | Aluminum & Polycarbonate Ladder Frame |
| Drive | Single Rear Axle Drive |
| Transmission | 3-Speed (transmitter controlled) |
| Gear Ratios | 32.49:1, 17.76:1, 10.66:1 |
| Differential | 3-Bevel Gear |
| Motor | Type 540 Brushed |
| Suspension | Leaf Springs with Friction Dampers |
| Manufacturer | Tamiya |
| Item Number | 56312 |
What's Included
- Volvo FH12 Globetrotter ABS cab (unpainted white)
- Aluminum ladder-frame chassis components
- Metal leaf spring suspension
- Friction dampers
- 3-speed transmission assembly
- Type 540 brushed motor
- Wheels and tires
- Trailer coupler
- Decal sheet
- Comprehensive instruction manual
Needed to Complete
- 4-channel radio system (transmitter and receiver)
- Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) or Tamiya MFC unit
- Standard-size steering servo
- Shift servo for transmission
- 7.2V NiMH or 7.4V 2S LiPo battery pack
- Compatible battery charger
- Tamiya TS spray paints for ABS body
- AA batteries for transmitter
Summary
The Tamiya Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 420 celebrates Volvo's award-winning flagship truck with authentic 1/14 scale European proportions. This 1994 Truck of the Year features the distinctive Globetrotter high-roof cab, aerodynamic styling, and proven Tamiya ladder-frame engineering with metal suspension and 3-speed transmission. With its compact single rear axle configuration, comprehensive trailer compatibility, and customizable ABS body, the FH12 is perfect for European trucking enthusiasts, Volvo collectors, and builders seeking an authentic Scandinavian heavy hauler.