Tamiya 1/14 RC Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 420
3‑Speed Tractor Semi Truck Kit (Item #56312)
Overview
Iconic European Heavy Hauler with Authentic Tamiya Scale Engineering
The Tamiya Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 420 is a 1/14 scale electric tractor‑truck assembly kit that recreates one of Volvo’s most iconic long‑haul trucks. Introduced in the early 1990s, the FH12 became Volvo’s flagship tractor and set new standards for comfort, aerodynamics, and performance in European trucking.
Tamiya faithfully captures the FH12’s clean, modern design and pairs it with their renowned 1/14 tractor‑truck ladder‑frame chassis, delivering exceptional realism, durability, and expandability for serious scale RC truck enthusiasts.
About the Volvo FH12 Globetrotter
Body & Scale Detail
The FH12 Globetrotter features a precision‑molded ABS plastic cab that accurately reflects the real truck’s aerodynamic lines and tall sleeper configuration. Scale highlights include:
- Detailed Globetrotter cab shape with realistic proportions
- Molded grille, mirrors, steps, and trim
- Interior detail for added realism
- Decal set for authentic Volvo markings
The cab is supplied unpainted in white, allowing builders to create custom European fleet or show‑truck liveries.
Ladder‑Frame Chassis & Suspension
Under the cab is Tamiya’s proven metal ladder‑frame chassis, constructed with aluminum side rails and reinforced resin cross members for strength and realism.
Suspension is faithfully recreated using:
- Metal leaf springs front and rear
- Friction dampers
- Floating front axle and single driven rear axle
This setup provides smooth, realistic on‑road handling and excellent stability when towing trailers.
3‑Speed Transmission & Drivetrain
Power comes from a front‑mounted Type 540 brushed motor, transmitted through a servo‑shifted 3‑speed gearbox to the rear axle. Built‑in differential gears ensure smooth cornering and realistic driving behavior.
Selectable gear ratios include:
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1st gear: 32.49 : 1
-
2nd gear: 17.76 : 1
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3rd gear: 10.66 : 1
A minimum 4‑channel radio system is required to operate steering, throttle, and gear shifting.
Trailer Compatibility & Expansion
A standard coupler is included, allowing the FH12 Globetrotter to tow any Tamiya 1/14 scale semi‑trailer, including fuel tankers, reefers, flatbeds, and container trailers.
The truck is also compatible with Tamiya’s optional Multi‑Function Control Units (MFC‑01 or MFC‑03), which add realistic engine sounds, lighting, and vibration effects for an immersive scale experience.
Key Features
- 1/14 scale electric tractor‑truck assembly kit
- Official Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 420 replica
- Metal ladder‑frame chassis with leaf‑spring suspension
- Servo‑shifted 3‑speed transmission
- Front‑mounted motor with rear‑wheel drive
- Realistic European‑style proportions and detailing
- Compatible with all Tamiya 1/14 semi‑trailers
What’s Included
- Volvo FH12 Globetrotter ABS cab (unpainted)
- Ladder‑frame chassis components
- Type 540 brushed motor
- Wheels and tires
- Decal sheet
- Instruction manual
(Electronics not included)
Needed to Complete
- Minimum 4‑channel radio system
- Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) or Tamiya MFC unit
- Steering servo and shift servo
- 7.2 V NiMH or 7.4 V 2S LiPo battery
- Compatible battery charger
- Paint for ABS cab
- AA batteries for transmitter
Recommended For
- Scale RC truck enthusiasts
- European‑style semi‑truck builds
- Experienced builders
- On‑road scale driving and trailer hauling
Specifications
- Scale: 1/14
- Drive system: Rear‑wheel drive (single rear axle)
- Chassis: Aluminum ladder frame
- Suspension: Metal leaf springs (front & rear)
- Transmission: 3‑speed, servo‑shifted
- Length: 440 mm
- Width: 188 mm
- Height: 295 mm
- Wheelbase: 272 mm
- Motor: Type 540 brushed
- Assembly level: Kit (assembly & painting required)
