OEM Custom Model Development
How We Develop Custom Scale Models
A clear path from initial quotation and engineering review to prototype approval, production tooling, mass production and final delivery.
Project Information
What We Need Before Quotation and Development
An initial quotation needs a clear project brief. Detailed engineering data is normally collected after the project is confirmed and before prototype development begins.
For an Initial Quotation
Quotation Requirements
- Exterior and interior reference photos of the real vehicle or equipment.
- Real vehicle dimensions and the required model scale.
- Required functions, such as opening parts, steering or moving equipment.
- Packaging requirements.
- Estimated order quantity for each model, colour or version.
After the Project Is Confirmed
Engineering references for development
- Editable 3D data of the real vehicle or equipment.
- Detailed exterior, interior and component photographs from multiple angles.
- Confirmed scale, functions, dimensions and product specification.
- Colour references, logos, badges, number plates and printed graphics when requested.
- Final packaging structure and editable packaging artwork before production preparation.
Three Main Stages
One Project, Three Approval Points
Each stage answers a different question: Is the structure correct? Does the production sample meet the agreed specification? Can the approved standard be reproduced consistently?
Prototype Stage
Engineering data, physical prototype and customer approval of the model structure.
Typically about 35 daysTooling Stage
Production tooling, trial parts, finished sample and final sample approval.
Typically about 75 daysMass Production Stage
Parts production, finishing, assembly, inspection, packing and shipment preparation.
Typically 45–60 daysConfirm the Structure Before Steel Tooling Begins
The prototype turns the engineered model data into a physical reference that the customer can inspect before committing to production tooling.
3D Data Scaling
The editable 3D data of the real vehicle is scaled to the required model ratio, then reviewed for wall thickness, part separation, assembly, tooling feasibility, clearances and planned functions.
Prototype Development
An ABS prototype is produced at the planned scale. It normally remains unpainted because its main purpose is to review shape, structure, parts and functions.
Prototype Approval
The customer reviews proportions, dimensions, component gaps, part layout, opening movement and the overall engineering solution before written approval.
Build the Tooling and Approve a Production-Representative Sample
Once the prototype is approved, formal tooling is developed for alloy and plastic parts. Trial components are finished and assembled into a sample for the customer’s final review.
Tooling Development
After prototype approval, the project, R&D, engineering and tooling teams review the production requirements, model functions and packaging needs. Die-cast and plastic parts are planned separately, and the approved 3D data is transferred to the CNC team for tooling development.
- Mould layout, part drawings and mould-base planning
- CNC programming and machining of mould components
- EDM processing, drilling, cooling channels and runner preparation
- Mould assembly, fitting, polishing and trial adjustment
Pre-production Sample Development
Pre-production samples follow the same main processes planned for mass production, but are made in a small trial batch. We normally prepare 30–50 sets of parts for process testing and provide two finished die-cast samples for the customer’s review.
- Trial production of die-cast and plastic parts
- Painting, printing, assembly and functional testing
- Two finished samples submitted for customer approval
- Corrections and a second sample made when required
Reproduce the Approved Standard Across the Production Batch
After sample approval, production follows the confirmed materials, colours, decoration, assembly requirements and approved sample standard.
Parts Production QC
Alloy and plastic components are checked before they move to the next production operation.
Surface & Decoration QC
Paint, printed graphics, colour boundaries and visible component surfaces are reviewed during finishing.
Assembly & Function QC
Appearance, fit, missing parts, gaps and confirmed moving functions are checked during final assembly.
Final Sampling Inspection
The quality supervisor carries out a final sampling review against the approved sample and project requirements.
Commercial Terms
Standard Payment Schedule
Payments are linked to clear project milestones so both sides know which approval has been completed before the next stage begins.
After Contract Signing
50% of the tooling fee is paid as the project deposit.
After Sample Approval
The remaining 50% of the tooling fee and 50% of the mass-production cost are paid.
Before Shipment
The remaining 50% of the mass-production cost is paid before the finished goods are shipped.
Project Assurance
Approval, Inspection and After-sales Support
Quality is controlled through approvals
The prototype is approved before tooling, the production sample is approved before mass production, and completed goods are inspected before shipment. Project-specific acceptance requirements are confirmed through the contract, technical references and approved sample.
12-month warranty
We provide a 12-month warranty covering confirmed manufacturing defects under normal handling and storage conditions. Final warranty coverage and exclusions are subject to the project contract.
What should you check when approving a model?
Review our guide to materials, paint, printing, assembly gaps and functional quality.
Real OEM Projects
See the Development Process in Finished Models
These projects show how different structures, scales and functional requirements move through engineering, tooling, production and quality control.
1:25 LGMG H1840 Telehandler Model
A functional equipment model with steering, suspension, stabilisers, an adjustable fork carriage and telescopic boom.
View Case Study → Public Transport1:42 Yutong Articulated Trolleybus Model
A long-body articulated model with opening parts, steering, suspension and movable collector poles.
View Case Study → Specialist Vehicle1:48 ZOOMLION YT53 Ladder Fire Truck
A 282-part functional model with an extending ladder, rotating platform, opening cab and deployable stabilisers.
View Case Study →Frequently Asked Questions
Before Starting a Custom Model Project
Is 3D data required before receiving a quotation?
No. We can prepare an initial quotation using reference photos, real vehicle dimensions, the required scale, functions, packaging and quantity. Once the project is confirmed and officially starts, editable 3D data of the real vehicle is required before high-fidelity model engineering begins.
Why are detailed reference photos still needed when 3D data is available?
3D data may not contain colours, materials, printed graphics, surface textures or every visible interior detail. Photos help our engineers understand areas that are incomplete, hidden or unclear in the data.
Why is a prototype required before tooling?
The prototype allows the customer to review the model’s physical proportions, size, part separation, component gaps, structure and planned functions before steel tooling begins.
Can the model be changed after tooling begins?
Some colour, printing and minor finishing details can still be adjusted. Structural revisions may require engineering changes and tooling modification, so they should be completed before prototype approval whenever possible.
Is the pre-production sample the same as the final mass-produced model?
It is produced with the formal tooling, materials and planned production processes and should closely represent the final product. The approved sample becomes an important reference for mass-production appearance, assembly and function.
How long does a complete custom scale model project take?
A typical project may require about 35 days for engineering and prototype development, about 75 days for tooling and sample approval, and 45–60 days for mass production. Actual timing depends on complexity, approval speed, revisions, quantity and packaging.
Can we inspect the finished models before final payment?
Yes. Customers may inspect the goods directly, appoint a third-party inspection company, or review the production photos and videos we provide. The agreed inspection method is recorded in the project contract.
Planning a Custom Scale Model Project?
Send us your vehicle photos, real vehicle dimensions, required scale, functions, packaging preference and estimated quantity. We can review the project and prepare an initial quotation.
