Helion Animus 18DT

Helion Animus 18DT

One brand that’s well-known for their 1/10 radio-controlled cars and trucks, Helion has added a new 1/18-scale vehicle to their small-scale lineup, and it looks tough. The Animus 18DT is a desert truck that features a body style similar to what you’ll find on many off-road, endurance racing trucks.

This 4-wheel drive, ready-to-run (RTR) R/C truck is powered by a brushed motor (370 size) and an included 1100mAh 7.2V NiMH battery. From the looks of the specs and the introductory running video, this machine has plenty of get-up-and-go right out of the box, making performance-minded enthusiasts happy.

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A 3-in-1 “ERS” (ESC/receiver/servo) keep the internal components of the Animus 18DT clean and clutter-free. Simply plug in the battery and power the truck on and you’ll be ready for your next adventure.

Sticking on the performance and handling path, this truck features “big bore” oil-filled shocks and allows ride height tuning for optimal handling based on your running environment. The Animus 18DT rolls on tires that feature an aggressive tread pattern that should allow it to handle varying conditions and obstacles with ease.

The electronics are water resistant and this model features a 2.4GHz radio system. An included Ikonnik SR2 2-channel transmitter will give comfort and control while driving, and excellent long-range performance.

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From the exterior, this is a truck that looks like it’s ready to take on the world, no matter the conditions. LED headlights and taillights help illuminate the path if your adventure extends into nighttime. When the sun is shining, you can easily spot this R/C truck thanks to the two solid-color body shells it is offered in (red or blue). 

Helion also points out the fact that this new truck is still part of the Animus 1/18-scale family and can be outfitted with various aluminum hop-up parts. Ranging from shock towers and drive shafts to battery straps and chassis components, you can amp up the “under the hood” looks of this ride with relative ease.

Specifications

  • Motor: 370 size brushed
  • Battery: 1100mAh 7.2V NiMH with HCT-plug
  • Gear Pitch: M0.6
  • Wheels: 44mm (1.73in) x 25mm (1.0in)
  • Length: 236mm (9.29in)
  • Height: 105mm (4.13in)
  • Width:195mm (7.68in)
  • Wheelbase: 159mm (6.26in)
  • Weight w/ battery: 596g (1.5lb) approx.
  • Internal Gear Ratio: 8.8:1

See the Helion Animus 18DT in Action

As smaller-scale radio-controlled cars and trucks go, you may see prices vary from double to triple digits, depending on the scale and internal components. The 18DT is sitting pretty with a reasonable price of $99.99, making this an attractive addition to any R/C garage.

This 1/18-scale desert truck can be purchased online or through your local HobbyTown store. Learn more about the Helion 18DT at helion-rc.com.

Image credit: Helion