We Are Expensive, We Are Revolutionary

Hello to all our friends following AE28U and Ark Edge. Ever since we launched our first chassis—the AE28U—there's been a lot of buzz about us. We’ve heard your thoughts and seen your questions. Since it’s tough to respond to each one individually, we've gathered your most common inquiries to address them all right here. We hope this article helps you get to know Ark Edge better, understand our passion, and discover the unique qualities of the AE28U chassis.

Who Are We?

As newcomers in the micro-scale RC drift chassis field, it’s quite common for us to hear, "Who are you?"

Ark Edge is based in China and brings roughly eight years of experience in the racing simulator and esports industry. We proudly operate a spacious facility over 300 square meters, dedicated to racing simulators and RC drift tracks.

We're also partners with HiPole, one of China's top racing esports platforms. Our logo was proudly displayed on the HiPOSR team’s cars during the Geely Super Cup event at the Chengdu Tianfu International Circuit in May 2024, joining them in the thrill of the race.

Our chassis designer is a seasoned racer with a CAMF Motorcycle Circuit Class A Racing License, who is not only experienced in vehicle modifications but also a dedicated enthusiast of the Kyosho Mini-Z series. Ark Edge's foray into the RC drift car market was a natural step, driven by our rich background in racing, our designer's expertise in creating high-performance chassis, and a vibrant community eager to test and enjoy our products.

Why Is the AE28U So Expensive?

One of the most common topics of conversation about the AE28U is its price. We often see questions in Facebook groups asking, "Why does a 1/24-1/28 scale chassis have a price tag close to $500?" This price point is usually reserved for 1/10 scale models.

Here’s why: 1) The sophisticated design process of the AE28U naturally makes it a pricier item; 2) The AE28U comes fully upgraded, eliminating the need for optional parts.

Our Design Process

From the ground up, the AE28U was envisioned to emphasize integration and elegance. To match the chassis's style and dimensions, we integrated more functionality into fewer components. This integration not only simplifies the assembly process but also enhances the overall look and feel of the chassis.

Such innovative design requires advanced manufacturing techniques, which does influence our costs. However, compromising on quality or design would detract from the exceptional experience we promise, so we stick to our standards to ensure you get the best value.

Why Doesn't the AE28U Have Optional Parts?

This goes back to our philosophy of integrity in design. The AE28U was crafted to maintain consistency throughout its design and production. We couldn’t settle for using “standard” parts as a baseline and then offering upgrades later. Therefore, we decided from the start to provide the AE28U in its ultimate form, equipped with everything a drifter might need.

Why Are No Dealers Currently Selling the AE28U?

Honestly, many dealers have shown interest in the AE28U, attracted by its design and potential. As Ark Edge is still establishing its reputation, major dealers are taking their time to see if we’re a reliable brand.

Meanwhile, several local dealers on platforms like Taobao have started offering the AE28U, and the response has been positive. This encouragement fuels our commitment to continue innovating and delivering top-notch products to the RC drift car community.

Performance Features of the AE28U

The AE28U stands out with its adjustable wheelbase, reaching a minimum of 86mm, and supports widths from 68-85mm, which significantly broadens its compatibility with various body shells.

It offers front wheels with a maximum steering angle of 85 degrees for extreme drifting capabilities. The chassis features full metal shocks, with adjustable preload, and customizable settings for caster, camber, toe, and Ackerman angles.

Its semi-closed gearbox design greatly reduces the risk of wire entanglement and is compatible with both brushed and brushless motors. The differential’s Zirconia ball bearings ensure a smooth, unparalleled driving experience.

A special thank you to Alexander Dimke, an administrator in a small-scale RC drift car community. He compiled performance-related queries from his community members and reached out for direct answers. Here’s a glimpse into the concerns raised:

“1. This is my opinion, but it is not informative enough. There is very little information about the front suspension and its settings. How do I set up a caster? Front levers no information. From the drawing of the servo mounting, it is clear that there is an accreman setting, but there is no visual.
2. About the rear suspension. From the instructions, as I understand it, there is no toe-in setting for the rear wheels.
3. From the video that I saw on the chassis and photos. The front knuckles have a shape that makes the angle of rotation of the wheel large relative to the attachment points. It is more suitable for touring chassis rather than drifting.
4. it is not completely clear how to adjust the preload of the suspension springs and clearance.
5. What are the angles of rotation of the front wheels, I have not seen a single photo.”

In response, I’ve created a video to demonstrate the AE28U’s capabilities and address these queries, which you can watch here: 

Will There Be More Chassis?

Absolutely! We are currently designing another small-scale RC drift chassis, though details are still under wraps. Beyond just the chassis, all the tracks, 3D-printed guardrails, and track accessories at the Ark Edge facility are designed and produced by us.

*Ark Edge Designed Track

Thank you for your interest in the AE28U and Ark Edge. If you have any more questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to reach out. Every piece of feedback and every question is incredibly valuable to us.