Hot “Wheelz” Makes R/C History
Hot Wheels + Aaron "Wheelz"
Through a partnership with Aaron "Wheelz" Fotheringham, Hot Wheels launches its first ever remote-controlled wheelchair toy.
By Glenn Oyoung
Tue, May 3, 2022 10:58 PM PST
Fans of Hot Wheels love the brand because it’s always innovating, from the clever tie-ups with brands like Gucci and automotive icons like Magnus Walker, to its painstakingly detailed Redline Club collectibles. Today Hot Wheels launched its first ever remote-controlled wheelchair toy in partnership with legendary five-time Wheelchair Motorcross World Champion and Paralympic Athlete Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham.
Like other Mattel brands like Barbie that have invested heavily in representing a more diverse customer base, Hot Wheels aims to expand representation and encourage kids to “tell more stories through play.”
For those who might wonder whether representation in toys matters, I can personally attest to the power of inclusion for kids. This past Lunar New Year, it was so wonderful for my daughters to see Barbies dressed in traditional Chinese attire and Legos that educated and celebrated our family traditions. Seeing yourself in toys is powerful, and seeing other people in toys is equally powerful in terms of opening up young minds to the diverse fabric of our world.
With that lens, I see this as beautiful step by Hot Wheels to further embrace the diversity of its fans. Fotheringham was born with spina bifida, a condition that affects spinal cord development. Called the “Godfather of Extreme Wheelchair” by the Olympic Channel, he won the WCMX World Championships five times and recently executed the first Wheelchair Flair/backflip 180. According to Hot Wheels, “Aaron is the living embodiment of the Hot Wheels spirit, inspiring others to see their own challenges in a new way.”
“Wheelz” is known for performing epic spins and jumps from his wheelchair, and the R/C Aaron Wheelz Wheelie Chair by Hot Wheels is designed to do the same. It comes with a remote control and ramp, and enough power to get up to over 6 mph.
Hot Wheels celebrated the launch of this historic product with a visit to a local children’s hospital by Fotherigham and a live event at Hot Wheels headquarters in El Segundo. Hot Wheels fans can find the R/C Aaron Wheelz Wheelie Chair at major retailers.
About The Author
Glenn Oyoung is a marketer based in Los Angeles. Glenn’s lifelong passion for cars is rooted in playing with Hot Wheels, and has continued into 1:1 scale. He’s the former marketing director of American Racing, author of ‘vehicular alphabet books’ “C is for Car” and "P is for Petersen" in collaboration with the Petersen Automotive Museum. His passion for cars extends to his role as the founder of the monthly car meet Carcadia at Route 66, the most diverse car meet in the San Gabriel Valley.
