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 collected after the project is confirmed and before formal development begins.
Quotation Requirements
- Reference photos of the real vehicle or equipment.
- Actual vehicle dimensions and required model scale.
- Required functions, such as opening parts, steering or moving equipment.
- Packaging requirements.
- Estimated order quantity for each model, colour or version.
Engineering References for Development
- Editable 3D data of the real vehicle or equipment.
- Detailed exterior, interior and component photographs.
- Confirmed scale, functions and product specifications.
- Colour references, logos, badges and printed graphics.
- Final packaging structure and editable packaging artwork.
Three Main Stages
One Project, Three Approval Points
A typical project takes approximately 160 days across three stages. Each stage has a clear approval point before the next stage begins.
Prototype Stage
Model 3D engineering, client review, physical prototype and prototype approval.
Approx. 35 daysTooling Stage
Production tooling, trial parts, finished production sample and final sample approval.
Approx. 75 daysMass Production Stage
Parts production, finishing, assembly, inspection, packaging and shipment preparation.
Approx. 50 daysConfirm the Model Before Production Tooling Begins
Stage 1 converts the original vehicle data into production-ready scale-model engineering and then into a physical prototype for client approval.
Scale Model 3D Engineering
The original vehicle or equipment data is scaled and engineered into model-production 3D data, including part separation, assembly structure and required functions.
Client 3D Review
The model 3D data is submitted to the client for review. Required corrections are completed and confirmed before prototype production begins.
Prototype Production
Prototype parts are produced, refined, fitted and assembled so the complete physical model can be evaluated.
Prototype Approval
The physical prototype is submitted to the client. After approval, the project is released for production tooling.
Build the Tooling and Approve a Production Sample
After prototype approval, formal production tooling is developed for the alloy and plastic components. Trial parts are then finished and assembled into a production-standard sample.
Tooling Development
After prototype approval, the project, engineering and tooling teams review the production requirements. Formal molds are then manufactured for the required die-cast and plastic parts.
Tool Trial & Parts Review
Before normal parts production begins, the molds are tested. Trial parts are inspected and the tooling is adjusted where necessary before the complete sample is assembled.
Production Sample
The sample is produced using formal tooling, planned materials, painting, printing and assembly processes so it closely represents the final mass-produced model.
Client Sample Approval
The production sample is submitted to the client for approval. Mass production starts only after the approved sample standard has been confirmed.
Reproduce the Approved Standard Consistently
Mass production follows the approved sample, confirmed colours, decoration, functions, assembly requirements and packaging standard.
Parts Production QC
Alloy and plastic components are checked before moving to the next production operation.
Surface & Decoration QC
Paint, printed graphics, colour boundaries and visible surfaces are reviewed during finishing.
Assembly & Function QC
Appearance, fit, missing parts, gaps and confirmed moving functions are checked during assembly.
Final Quality Check
Finished models are checked against the approved sample and confirmed project requirements before packaging.
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 Production Sample Approval
The remaining 50% of the tooling fee and 40% of the mass-production cost are paid.
Before Shipment
The remaining 60% of the mass-production cost is paid before shipment.
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 editable 3D data required to develop a new project?
Yes. Editable 3D data is required before formal project development starts. We can work with Pro/ENGINEER, UG (Unigraphics), Mastercam, IGES or STEP data. For the initial quotation, 3D data is normally not required.
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 confirm the model's size and proportions, exterior appearance, part layout, structure and planned functions before production tooling begins. Major structural changes should be completed at this stage whenever possible.
Is the production sample representative of the final mass-produced model?
Yes. It is produced using the formal tooling, materials and planned production processes and should closely represent the final product. The approved sample becomes the reference for mass-production appearance, assembly and function.
How long does a complete custom scale model project take?
A typical project takes approximately 160 days: about 35 days for 3D engineering and prototype approval, about 75 days for tooling and production sample approval, and about 50 days for mass production. Actual timing depends on project complexity, approval time, 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 production photos and videos provided by us. The agreed inspection method is confirmed in the project contract.
Planning a Custom Scale Model Project?
Send us your product photos, actual dimensions, required scale, functions, packaging preference and estimated quantity. We can review the project and prepare an initial quotation.
