As I stated before "If they are not inserted in the cases I think most retailers will reduce the quantity they buy by release 4. Is Autoworld is trying to eliminate hobby stores from buying them? If they "introduce other chase-inspired elements to their standard production cars to make them more fun and exciting to collect than ever before!", won't the new "Chase car" be just like the White Thunder and be "sold at exorbitant prices, while regular production cars are heavily discounted"?"

This is happening just as I thought it would. The retailers will be ordering fewer cases. The new "chase cars" are becoming the "white thunders" (although not as popular). Auto World will now have to offer the Red base cars and differant color widows in some sort of set for the collectors since dealers will be selling them on Ebay for too much.

I did buy 4 master cases of both the clam pack and jewel case for release 2. I will cut that to 2 each next time. Yes I sell the chase cars on ebay or customers (at ebay prices) then sell the regular cars a bit cheaper (usually $11-$14). Retailers are in this to make money and I for one am tired of hearing complaints about the chase cars going to ebay.

I do not fault Auto World for their choice to change the way iwheels are distributed. I do think it will hurt the sales for retailers and inturn Round 2. I also think Tom L's statment was a little harsh. I feel he just got caught up in all the backlash of the change. Bottom line is if this works ($$$) it will continue and if not maybe more change to come.