What is a Group Buy?

Put simply, a Group Buy (GB) is the final realisation of an idea that allows a custom creation—such as a unique Mini 4WD car design or a limited-edition track—to become reality. The nature of manufacturing is all about economies of scale, meaning a certain volume of orders is needed in order to reach production at an affordable rate, if at all.

A GB typically begins with a designer or team creating the concept and sharing it with the community to gather interest and feedback. This stage is where the details get locked in—car body styles, track layouts, colour schemes, materials, and sometimes additional accessories. If there’s enough interest, prototypes are produced to confirm quality, fit, and performance. During this time, the success of a GB often hinges on clear communication from the creator, as excitement can fade quickly if updates go silent.

If the concept survives this stage and receives enough positive feedback, the next step is to find a vendor or sales platform. Vendors act as the sales avenue—handling pre-orders, processing payments, and paying a royalty to the creator.

So what’s the big deal?
Two main things: one, you get the chance to own a special-edition car or track that may never be produced again; and two, you get it at the lowest possible price, as GB pricing is often lower than any future retail—if there even is a retail run. The flip side? You pay for the product and it doesn’t reach its Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ). In the best case, the vendor refunds you; in the worst case, a less-than-reputable seller might disappear entirely—so it’s important to buy from a trusted source.

So I’ve joined the GB—now what?
Once the GB closes, the vendor finalises numbers and submits the order to the manufacturer. From there, it’s a waiting game while production is completed. Depending on complexity and shipping, this can take anywhere from 3–6 months (or more). Once the vendor receives stock, they’ll dispatch your order right away.

Why buy from Cars and Tracks?
Cars and Tracks combines a passion for the hobby with solid business experience and strong financial backing. We’re here for the long haul, aiming to be your one-stop shop for Mini 4WD cars, tracks, and related accessories. Have a question? Just reach out via email or Discord—we’re always happy to help.