Mattel Shifts Gears for Hot Wheels 50th Anniversary

Mattel is putting the pedal to the metal with live experiences, product launches and partnerships that celebrate the 50th anniversary of its toy car brand Hot Wheels.

License Global

May 18, 2018

Mattel Shifts Gears for Hot Wheels 50th Anniversary

"For 50 years Hot Wheels' intuitive vehicle play-pattern has contributed to its success as the No. 1 selling toy in the world," says Chris Down, senior vice president and global brand general manager, Hot Wheels. “Since its introduction in 1968, the brand has evolved from a simple toy into a true lifestyle brand that champions the challenger spirit through gaming, digital content, partnerships and live experiences spanning multiple generations and ages–this has allowed the brand to remain relevant to kids and adults and see record growth over the past three years.”

Upcoming experiences, product launches and more include:

Live Experiences

The “Hot Wheels Legend Tour”–During this Hot Wheels traveling car show, Hot Wheels will search for a custom car worthy of being turned into a Hot Wheels toy. The tour kicked off in April and is currently visiting 14 Walmart locations across the U.S.
Hot Wheels Challengers–A multi-year marketing program that includes a series of competitions for kids such as The Hot Wheels INDYCAR Junior Grand Prix Powered by K1 Speed, The Hot Wheels Junior Series Built by Woodward and Hot Wheels Athlete Sponsorships.
Hot Wheels World at Beto Carrero–An immersive brand experience at one of Latin America's largest theme parks.
"Hot Wheels: Race to Win"–An exhibit at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
Product

Hot Wheels 50th Originals Collection–A collection of five Hot Wheels original replicas from the "Sweet 16" series featuring legacy graphics, original packaging and original Spectraflame paint, Redline wheels and a collectible button.

Hot Wheels City–A new play system that combines "imaginative vehicle 'push-around' play and classic 'crash-and-bash' action.”
Hot Wheels Augmoto–An AR racing experience.
“Hot Wheels Rocket League"–A co-branded version of the popular video game “Rocket League.”

Partnerships

General Motors for a Hot Wheels 50th anniversary edition Camaro.
Race Service for The Evolution of a Diecast video.
Volcom for an exclusive line of boys clothing.
Illest for exclusive merchandise, which was sold at the “Legends Tour Hot Wheels HQkick-offff event in April in El Segundo, Calif.
The company has also unveiled commemorative merchandise including The Hot Wheels Book by Assouline and a 50th anniversary commemorative coin.