The HPI Savage Flux XS is HPI's mini version of the popular Savage monster truck. Nominally it is 1/12th scale, however, its dimensions more closely match those of a 1/10th car (arguably due to the fact that a monster truck is a big car in reality, therefore, the scales are all a bit larger). It is brushless electric powered, with no announced plans to produce a nitro version, and although it probably shouldn't be completely ruled out, it seems unlikely at the moment.
So...Here are some of the frequently asked questions we've seen, I will add to these as the thread develops.
Q1) When can I buy it!!?!!?!oneone
A1) It should be shipping in early september!
Q2) How much?
A2) We've seen preorders available from $299 to $349, with the average seeming to be around $310
Q3) Is it nitro or electric? Does it have 2.4Ghz radio?
A3) It's electric, brushless. It has a 2.4Ghz radio for zero interference.
Q4) What else will I need to go with it if I buy it?
A4) Suitable batteries and a charger
Q5) What kind of batteries? What size, etc?
A5) You can use the older style NiMH stick battery packs up to 10 cells, or LiPo batteries of 2s (7.4v) or 3s (11.1v). The battery box dimensions are 143mm in length, 31mm in height and 51mm width. The Castle speed controller comes with a Deans plug on it, so anticipate either changing that to the plug of your choice or changing the plug on any batteries you buy. I will update this as I get more info.
Running on 3S is currently not recommended on the stock speed control, they have a habit of letting out their magic smoke (or at the very least, just dying). HPI may fix this, or they may not. If you wish to run 3S, the motor is fine for it, but a 60A esc or higher is recommended.
Q6) What kind of motor and speed controller will it have?
A6) It appears to be another Castle controller, possibly Sidewinder V2 derived, apparently non-sensored, coupled with an apparent 4000kv motor.
Q7) How fast does it go?
A7) According to HPI, on 3s lipo batteries it will hit 65mph. Since electric motor torque and rpm are pretty much linear, you can expect around 45mph on 2S (and a little less, maybe 40ish on regular 7.2v NiMH stick packs)
Q8) Wheels, tires, bodies?
A8) Glad you asked! This is one of the best things about this little monster. The car will take standard 2.2 sized wheels and tires. As for bodies, the wheelbase is 225mm, and while I would need to try it (they may be a bit wide), it seems as though the 'M' and 'Cup Racer' type 225mm WB bodies should go on. Only width might be a concern. Will confirm this as soon as I am sure.
Q9) Anything else you think I need to know?
A9) It has plastic TVPs, an all metal drivetrain, takes standard 1/10th size electronics, is water resistant with the stock electronics, and has a slipper clutch.
Q10) You getting one?
A10) Eventually, definitely.
Q11) You planning any upgrades?
A11) We'll see, maybe. I like the idea of carbon fiber TVPs and maybe shock towers.
[link=http://www.hpieurope.com/kit-info.php?partNo=106572&lang=en]HPI Europe Official Savage Flux XS Page[/link]
[link=http://www.hpiracing.com/kitinfo/106571/]HPI North America Official Savage Flux XS Page[/link]
Quick pics: (Thanks to t9dragon for hosting these for us)
