So, there's actually another strange twist to this story that has not been referenced. I've had been going back and forth as to whether to post this because I didn't want to jinx the whole thing, but since the story is out...
I contacted Auto Art directly afew weeks back asking about any plans for a TRD version. Here is the first reply I received:
"Hi xxxxxx,
We will be making the Baja 1000 and TRD FJ race cars shortly which are based
on the original FJ Cruiser road car.
We will supply the Baja 1000 race car to Toyota US.
We are not allowed making any other special edition apart from these two
without Toyota's permission.
By the way, do visit our online website www.aa-collection.com regularly to
check details on our new releases and current models.
Best regards,
Gateway Global Ltd"
Hmmm...two different vehicles??? My reply:
"Greetings,
Thanks very much for the reply and the information. Just one
clarification- you mentioned that the Baja edition would be delivered
to to Toyota- is this also the case for the TRD edition or will it be
sold publicly?
Lastly, could you provide any sort of timeframe for the release of the
TRD edition model?"
Their reply...
"Hi xxxxxx,
We will deliver the Baja FJ to Toyota for their promotion, and we will sell BOTH Baja and TRD version through our own distribution channel worldwide.
The TRD version will probably be released in December/January of 2008.
Please visit our online website www.aa-collection.com regularly to check details on our new releases and current models.
We look forward to receiving your order soon.
Best regards,
Gateway Global Ltd"
And before you ask, yes, I did shoot them one final note and they verified that they are producing the black TRD, not the '08 white SE. So, my only question is, if Auto Art is producing a standard TRD version, why the heck is Toyota giving us the Baja version???
Oh well, I guess beggars can't be choosers...I'll be happy with anything at this point.
