EL SEGUNDO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today Hot Wheels and Nintendo announce the global release of Hot Wheels Mario Kart die-cast vehicles and track sets. With its introduction, the beloved Nintendo characters and iconic karts from the hugely popular Mario Kart franchise have been transformed into authentic, high-performance die-cast toy vehicles.
The Hot Wheels replica line features 1:64th scale die-cast Mario Kart vehicles that can race, stunt and crash on a variety of Hot Wheels Mario Kart track sets that bring the gameplay to life. The die-cast karts are also compatible with existing Hot Wheels sets. At launch the Hot Wheels Mario Kart Replica Die-cast assortment will include Mario, Yoshi, Luigi and Bowser with many additional characters coming soon such as Princess Peach, Koopa Troopa and Toad.
Three game-inspired track sets will also be available, including:
- Hot Wheels Mario Kart Track Set Course-Inspired Assortments:
- Piranha Plant Slide Track Set
- Thwomp Ruins Track Set
- Hot Wheels Mario Kart Circuit Track Set
“Mario Kart and Hot Wheels are two of the most iconic brands in play, each with their own storied history and devoted fan base, so the combination of the two is something very special,” said Matt Brutocao, Senior Director of Global Brand Marketing, Hot Wheels. “Our new Hot Wheels Mario Kart line creates an exciting Mario Kart play experience, complete with fun characters, authentic details and the type of out-of-this-world racing challenges that are synonymous with Hot Wheels.”
“Nintendo and Mattel have a shared goal of making people smile through different entertainment experiences,” said Tom Prata, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Nintendo. “We’re excited to bring Mario Kart characters and game-inspired tracks to life in a way that’s fun for fans of all ages.”
The Hot Wheels Mario Kart die-cast vehicles and track sets will be available globally in select markets and retailers starting in Summer 2019.
To celebrate the launch of the new product line and collaboration with Nintendo, Hot Wheels will feature Mario Kart at San Diego Comic-Con from July 17-21, 2019. Attendees will have access to an exclusive Hot Wheels Mario Kart “Metal Mario” die-cast vehicle, available for purchase only at Mattel’s booth or for pre-sale at shop.mattel.com.
Conceived in 1968 by an innovator, a rocket scientist and a car designer, Hot Wheels 1:64 scale die-cast cars were designed to look awesome and perform. Five decades later, Hot Wheels is the number one selling toy in the world* with more than 16.5 cars sold every second. The brand has evolved from a simple, yet beloved, toy car with orange track system into a global franchise powerhouse that offers fans of all ages multi-channel play experiences.
About Mattel
Mattel (NASDAQ: MAT) is a leading global children’s entertainment company that specializes in design and production of quality toys and consumer products. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain and develop children through play. We engage consumers through our portfolio of iconic franchises, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, American Girl®, Fisher-Price®, Thomas & Friends® and Mega®, as well as other popular brands that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include film and television content, gaming, music and live events. We operate in 40 locations and sell products in more than 150 countries in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and technology companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in exploring the wonder of childhood and empowering kids to reach their full potential. Visit us online at www.mattel.com.
*Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service/G12/Jan-Dec 2018/Total Toys/Units
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Contacts
Scott Shaffstall
Mattel Global Brand Communications
Scott.Shaffstall@mattel.com
310-252-3610