Free Comic Book Day!

Disney / Pixar Cars fans. Today is Free Comic Book Day (http://www.freecomicbookday.com/) at participating comic book stores. Though that in itself has nothing to do with Disney Cars or die cast for that matter, they are making available a Disney Cars comic book.

Cover of the Cars Comic book for Free Comic Book Day.

Information about the comic book:

Disney/Pixar's Cars #1
Creative Team: (W) Alan J. Porter (A) Albert Carreres
Publisher: Boom! Studios
Item Code: JAN090003

Take a peek under the hood of BOOM! Studios' line of Cars comics, based on the hit Disney/Pixar movie! This issue includes an exciting excerpt from Cars #1, revealing the plucky origin of Lightning McQueen! In addition, readers will be treated to never-before-seen sketches, character designs and script pages!

Disney Pixar Cars - Cars 2, Where and Who?

I think that Cars 2 is going to be off the hook! Really, why? Well, it sounds exciting and even though we don't know where they'll race, we know it will be called, "The Global Race." I can only imagine where Lightning is going, or who'll he'll race against. Lightning could visit Japan, Italy, France, or Australia! Can you picture Lightning buzzing by the Tour De France as they ride down a Parisian hill? How about seeing him bolt by the runners during the Boston Marathon?

Who will Lightning race against? No idea, and I can only speculate...will he race a Ferrari? How cool would it be if he raced against a Delorean? That would be a great die cast toy!! Maybe, he'll race in Alaska. How funny would it be if he got into it with Jet powered Snowmobile on the Iditarod trail?!! Only time will tell as things are being kept tightly under a locked car cover!

Where do you think Lightning will race? What kind of characters will he race against? How will Lightning and Mater get to these races? Will they hitch a ride on a Hauler? Will they sail to England on the QE2? Will they fly to Germany on a C-17 Military Transport. Speculating can be fun, and certainly quite funny! I can say this much...There will be a ton of super cool die cast toys coming!!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Matty Plays One, Two, Three, Red Light

Breaking news, well, not really. MattyCollector.com was supposed to release Lightning McQueen in 1:24th Scale tomorrow. I've been told that it won't happen. The release has been delayed until further notice. That's all I can tell you at this point. Not like you're surprised.

It reminds me of the game we played as kids...
One, Two, Three, Red Light! In this case,
as we get close to tagging Matty,
we end up in a big car pileup!

First, the Cars Cast got caught in Matty's Red Light


Then, a few hundred collectors were caught in a pile up


Finally, Old Man Johnson's pigs ended up in
a big ole pig pile while chasing down Matty

I wouldn't expect the April 15, 2009 release of Lightning McQueen in 1:55th Scale either. I will let you know when I hear anything new.

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Disney Pixar Cars - Lightning McQueen Beach Fun for Kids

For those of you who have kids, I received a notice about a fun New thing at DisneyShopping.com. Now, you and your kids can order customized swimwear with Lightning McQueen on them! You can order board shorts, hats, and T-Shirts! Very cool if you ask me.

I also found a Lightning McQueen Beach Towel you can personalize with up to 12 characters for an additional $7.95! Right now, the beach towels are 2 for $20.00, or one for $14.95. All these items are currently available on DisneyShopping.com.

They didn't have such cool stuff when I was a kid! With Zazzle and all this customizable clothing, who knows what will be available in the future!

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Disney Pixar Cars - John Lasseter Series Case and Car 1:55th Preview

I told you I'd have some great photos for you today, and thanks to Martin, you get to preview the John Lasseter Signature Series Car and Case in the 1:55th scale! This very well may be the final design, but some additional changes may be done before it goes to production. So, here it is for your viewing pleasure...

Lightning sits on raised posts like a beauty on a pedestal!


A view from the top on a sunny day!


Kinda looks like the Sheriff on the lift at Doc's!


The clear bottom is made to look at Lightning's chassis!


Acrylic can make a simple thing look quite elegant!


The Cars logo, Character Name & John Lasseter's signature!

• Remember, only the 1:55th Cars will come in this type of case. Here's a unique piece of info for you real collectors...both the body is die cast and the chassis is die cast, terming this a die cast, die cast. So, expect this baby to be heavy!
  

• This is the FIRST time the chassis of a car will be painted in such detail, thus the clear case for you to view the fine workmanship. Hot Wheels has never even done this!
  

• Also, don't forget the cool Soft Shore PVC Real Rubber-Like Tires with Tread Pattern. Pixar wanted Lightning on the treaded pattern for authenticity. Realize that he was only on slicks in two races, which accounted for a very short time on film. The fact is, most of Lightning's time spent on camera was during the time he was in Radiator Springs wearing treaded tires.

• Finally, this case is stackable, and you may eventually see this type of case for the 1:24th size. I've been told it will all depend on how well the 1:24th's sell.

This FIRST piece is expected to be released on MattyCollector.com on April 15, 2009. It is expected to retail for $20.00 and be a Limited Edition of 10,000. It will be available to our International Friends/Collectors! It will come to you in a white cardboard shipper and make your day when you open it!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Upcoming Cars Pin Sets

I know a lot of you collect pins in addition to Cars die cast toys. I thought I'd let you know about a few Cars pin sets that may interest you. You can supposedly order both sets I'm going to show you. I personally like the Mystery Tin Set.

The first set is being released on March 24, 2009 at Disney World. It is an Open Edition Starter Set and will retail for $24.95. You get four pins...a Lightning McQueen, a Mater, a Chick Hicks, and a pin with Guido and Luigi. You also get a lanyard and the set comes packed in a plastic pouch. You can check it out at this link Cars Pin Set

The second set will be released on March 27, 2009 at Disneyland. It will be a Limited Edition Set of 2000. This set will contain ten pins...a Sheriff, a Sally, a Ramone, a Luigi, a Guido, a Mack, a Lightning McQueen, a Mater, a Sarge and a Doc. They come packed in a metal tin, and you get four (4) randomly packed pins in each tin. Each tin will cost $32.00. You can check out this set at this link Cars Mystery Tin Set

Hopefully, I'll have some pics of some upcoming releases for you you this week!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Printable Lightning McQueen Valentine's Day Card

News is slow, and I always try to bring you something Cars related daily. I found a Free printable Disney Pixar Cars Valentine's Day Card. You and your kids can go to this link Cars Valentine's Card and make one to give to their friend(s)!

There's always something cool out there! I'm adding this NEW link to Alternator Valley's "Important Collector Web Sites," Disney-Stationary.com. You'll find a ton of great Cars images and things you and your kids will love!

You can print things such as Free Stationary, Free Coloring Sheets, and more!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Frank's First Showing in the Buff

Here's a "Special Look" at Frank in his raw metallic state! You rarely get to see this step of the die cast process, but today is your lucky day! Frank looks weird without his intimidating eyes staring down his rotating blades. Kinda looks naked doesn't he? Just a step along the way to toy immortality!

Watch out Chick! You're gonna be mince meat!

Frank doesn't look so tough with a Pink blade!

Looks like Lightning is gonna escape Frank's wrath!

Frank is expected to be released on May 1, 2009! Now, we all know that the key word is expected! We will just have to wait and see what happens when the slow boat from China docks, unloads, and the trucks deliver him to the warehouses. The good thing...we finally get a die cast Frank!!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Jibbitz Crocs Shoe Charms

Here's a cool thing you may not know exists...Jibbitz Cars Charms for Crocs! I came across them while sailing on the Disney Magic through the Panama Canal in May of last year. They attach to the holes in the comfy shoes, and add a fun personalization to them. Kids certainly love them and they definitely caught the eye of this big kid as well! I only saw Mater, Lightning McQueen and Guido while aboard the ship. Now, they have an entire selection to choose from! Click on this link to see them all... Cars Charms

You can even get this cool Display Board in case you just want to collect them! The detail is incredible and they are reasonably priced! See a need, fill it, and you may be the next millionaire!

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - MattyCollector.com March 17th Preview! Lightning McQueen 1:24th Plussed

In a little over five weeks, MattyCollector.com will be dusted off, the power will be turned on, and you should be able to buy the first release since Lightning Storm McQueen! Originally, the New Releases were going to be called the "Plussed" line. Now, the working name is, "The John Lasseter Signature Series." This has yet to be confirmed and greenlit. Today, I'm happy to give you a Special Preview of the First in this New Series...Lightning McQueen in 1:24th Scale!

The detail is going be unparalleled! Lightning in the 1:24th
Scale will be approximately 9 inches in length. He will be attached to a molded black base that will look like asphalt.

The undercarriage will show more detail,
but look at the tread on the real rubber tires!


Here's where you can really appreciate the detail!
Look at the camera lens on the left tail light.


A close look at the real rubber tires shows you a rim pin
striped in yellow, painted lug nuts, and even the brand label!
Do you like the painted exhaust pipes done in Silver?

To reiterate and further inform you...

1. The expected release date is March 17, 2009 on MattyCollector.com
2. There will be a Matty exclusive with the Real Rubber Tires that is expected to sell for $45.00
3. There will be a Direct Retailer exclusive with Plastic Tires that is expected to sell for $40.00. Target and Direct Sellers are the other expected distribution
4. I've been told the Edition Sizes are expected to be 5000 on MattyCollector.com and 5000 through Direct Retailers
5. Again, Lightning will ONLY be attached to a black molded base made to look like asphalt. Finally, he will NOT come with a clear cover, and come in a shipper.

More great previews to come! If you haven't, subscribe to Alternator Valley to get the latest News First!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Mater The Greater 1:55th Scale Die Cast Toy Preview

Ladies and Gentlecars,
Welcome to our "Mater The Greater" Preview!

Cars Toons- Mater The Greater - The best free videos are right here

First, get a snack and watch the Shooooo!

What a bunch o' fun! Now, imagine taking
those cool images and turning them into three
dimensional die cast toys! Here ya go...A la Presto!

Mater The Greater and his Patriotic Pittys!

Mia and Tia are decked out wearing buck teeth and tow hooks while watching nervously as Mater The Greater Performs!

Mater The Greater got a bit singed from the
gun powder while being shot out of the cannon!

Shooot! Nothing a little bit of rubbing
compound can't clean right up!

Mater The Greater to Flight Control!

Mater The Greater is ready for take off!

Mater The Greater dons his snorkel and diving mask as he readies to jump from a tall tower into a pool!

Mater The Greater gets set to take on Carburetor Canyon!

Just about ready to light the fuse and make history!

Well, Mater The Greater will let his pal
Lightning McQueen attempt history first!

What incredible workmanship! These will be on display at the Mattel Booth at the New York City Comic-Con from February 6th through the 8th. They are Expected to be released in the Spring in the 1:55th scale! The packaging will be different from the "Mainline." I'm certainly anticipating the pictures for the rest of the Cars Toons line! How cool will the Bulldozer be from "El Materdor?!" How about the stylin' Cars from "Tokyo Mater?!!" This gives collectors something great to look forward to adding to their collection.

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Cars Characters Joins the Cast of Disney on Ice

Lightning races around the rink during "Disney on Ice!"

Disney Pixar Cars characters have joined the cast of "Disney on Ice!" They open the show, and excite the crowd for the first half hour of the ice skating extravaganza! I thought those of you who love Cars and figure skating would be interested in taking your kids to see the show. Read more about "Disney on Ice" at this link...Cars on Ice

Coming Tomorrow: Mater The Greater Prototypes will be Previewed! Subscribe to Alternator Valley and know what's going on!

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Disney Pixar Cars - Piston Cups and Chase Cars

Are you dying to get your own Piston Cup? Here are a few you may have gotten by purchasing some of the many tracks or play sets. A few were also available at the Disney Store. I like the larger, detailed ones, while the smaller ones look like they came out of a cereal box. Again, a thanks to Ivette my friend from Austin for the picture!

We will soon see "Chase" Piston Cups with Lightning Mc Queen, the King and Chick Hicks! Yes, they are to be released as more of the "Chase" Cars that will be limited to 20,000 in distribution. They will have a gold gilded finish, and were first previewed at Comic-con last year. I would think they will start showing up after the impound series. To bad they won't be made of real metal. Maybe, we'll see one some day that will be part of an Exclusive set on MattyCollector.com.

Coming Very Soon: The Mater the Greater Prototypes will be Previewed this Friday! They are INCREDIBLE! Subscribe to Alternator Valley so you'll be notified every time I publish another article!

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Disney Pixar Cars - The NEW Mack Track Challenge Playset

It is time to see another NEW Cars item way before it comes out! Here's another item direct from the Mattel "Design Center!" It is expected to come out in the Fall and retail for $40.00...Mack Track Challenge will allow you to play with Lightning as if he were Evil Knievel. Maybe he can jump Snake Spring Canyon here in Alternator Valley.

Lightning Does His Best Evil Knievel

Yippee! Looks like fun to me!

So, is all this plastic contributing to the high price of gas? Is Lightning going to jump through Mack during the Global Race? That would be a cool stunt! I can't wait to see what kind of playsets come out once Cars 2 comes out in 2011.

NEW Cryptic Shout Outs! Hi Emeryville, do you have an office at Pixar?!

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Second and Third Level Characters are Key to Cars Success

Imagine if you could only collect the original twelve Cars characters and that was it. You would have completed your collection two years ago and would have gone on to something else. But here we are into the third year since Cars was released and collectors are hungrier than ever for the next NEW character!

What has made this line so successful is that John Lasseter wants us to have the entire cast of characters. How great is it that you can get characters such as Van, Yeti, and even Marco the Jet! To the reader who asked me if Mrs. Van (a.k.a Mini) would be available...I was told absolutely yes! Martin called her Mrs. Van, but what the hell does he know! I was told when all is said and done, that over 400 Cars characters will have been done in the 1:55th die cast "Mainline!" That is incredible and wonderful.

With all this happy stuff, I want to point out some things that make collecting a drag. It is when a company releases too many of the "Main" characters. Haven't we all said, "Not another McQueen!" I know I just can't take it when Disney runs a popular character into the ground. This is very evident with Disney pin trading. They'd release Tinker Bell angry, sitting, pouting, looking pretty, over the shoulder, blah, blah, blah...until you got so sick of Tinker Bell you wanted to vomit pixie dust! Let's hope Mattel doesn't make us want to puke up pistons and distributor caps.

Tell me you can't wait for Elvis?!! How about Sven the Governator?!! Who'd like a die cast Frank?!! Gimme a T! Gimme an O! Gimme a D! Gimme another D! Who does it Speeeeeell?! TODD, TODD, TODD! Who isn't waiting for Mr. Pizza Planet himself? I know a guy in Emeryville who probably has a few prototypes sitting in his office!

Man! Jay Limo is coming! Can't wait for Big Al! You are even gonna get the Spark Plug Aliens!!! Yessirree! This is the reason Cars is going to be hot for another five or six years! Great art, turned into great toys, done in high quality die cast. Martin, you and your team better take your vitamins and do your exercise in that Mattel gym. You got a lot of work to do my friend.

Coming Tomorrow: Photos of more New stuff!

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - NEW Folding Piston Cup Starter Set

We always like to see the NEW Cars items way before they come out! Here's the latest direct from the "Design Center!" Expected to come out in the Spring and retail for $30.00...this Piston Cup Starter Set will fold up for easy storage and come with a plastic Lightning McQueen. It will even have a place to park Lightning when you carry him off to his next race! Sounds like an infomercial for the latest ab machine!!

Piston Cup Starter Set (You did what in your cup?!)

Set Folds up and Lightning Can Sleep

Do you get EVERY set that comes out? I've gotten all the play sets and want more of those, but all the race tracks and other miscellaneous stuff I've passed on. I know we all want more of the play sets. We need Sarges' Quonset Hut, Filmore's psychedelic store and Mater's place! Let's hope these come for the 1:55th "Mainline" someday soon. I want to build Radiator Springs in my guest bedroom!

NEW Cryptic Shout Outs! Hey Fall River, got any Linguica for a native Portugee?!

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Show Your Pride with Cars Skins

I couldn't resist when I saw these recently. I had to order the one with Lightning for my laptop! You can buy Cars "Skins" for your cell phone, MP3 Player, Laptop and Gaming Device! What are "Skins?!" Here's an Excerpt from Disney Shopping...

Perfect Fit
SkinIt has developed the perfect skin for your favorite device. These skins have been designed to perfectly fit the unique contour of every device.

The Scotchprint® graphics brand from 3M™ used by Skinit assures end consumers will experience durability, exceptional image quality and no residue on their devices on removal.

High-quality print
SkinIt is using state-of-the-art digital printing technology to offer the best colors.

Fights Scratches
Skins provide a thin protective membrane, buffering your device from the occasional scuffs and scrapes of everyday use.

In addition to Lightning, you can choose from Mater, Ramone, Sally, and the Sheriff! I also got a Pirates skin for my Ipod Shuffle! They start at $14.95 for the smaller devices and are $29.95 for laptops. Very cool stuff! Go get one!! You can get your own by visiting this link Cars Skins.

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com

Disney Pixar Cars - Seasonal Christmas Cars Photos

We've all got that one relative who starts their Christmas shopping a year in advance. Here's a peak at some of the "Seasonal" Cars that are expected to be released for Christmas this year! These are just a few that you can put on your wish list...

Lightning McQueen with a Peppermint Bolt

Doc Hudson as Santa

Red Ribbon Ramone

The Sheriff with Ornaments

Which one is your favorite? I really like Doc as Santa! Martin at Mattel told me he wanted to do Ramone in a Rangsburg finish, but couldn't get the ok on it. That would have rocked! These aren't their "Official" names, I just dubbed them with these names because of their elements. I'll post more as I get them.

http://CarsDieCastToys.Blogspot.com