HPI Racing Philippines: A Legendary Brand Still Going Strong in 2026
In the world of RC cars, few brand names carry as much weight as HPI Racing. Founded in California in 1986 and built on a philosophy of engineering quality products for racers and bashers alike, HPI has left a lasting mark on the global RC hobby. In the Philippines, HPI has a loyal following built up over decades — hobbyists who grew up with HPI Savages and Sprint 2s, and who still swear by the brand's build quality and performance. This guide covers everything Filipino RC enthusiasts need to know about HPI Racing in 2026: the best models, prices in pesos, where to find them locally, and how HPI compares to modern competitors.
A Brief History of HPI Racing
HPI Racing was founded by Tatsuro Watanabe with the goal of creating high-performance RC vehicles for serious hobbyists. The brand quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the most durable and well-engineered RC trucks, buggies, and drift cars on the market. Notable milestones include the launch of the iconic Savage monster truck in the late 1990s, the Sprint touring car platform that dominated RC racing in the 2000s, and the Baja 5B gas-powered buggy that became a benchmark for large-scale RC performance.
HPI went through corporate restructuring in 2018, which caused some disruption to parts availability globally. However, the brand has since stabilised and continues to produce and support many of its most popular models. In the Philippines, HPI products are available through hobby shops and online channels, though the selection is narrower than it was at the brand's peak.
Popular HPI Models in the Philippines
HPI Savage Flux HP
The Savage is HPI's flagship monster truck and one of the most recognised RC vehicles ever produced. The Savage Flux HP is the brushless electric version of the platform, known for its massive wheelbase, high ground clearance, and ability to handle serious bashing punishment. Filipino hobbyists who bash in open lots, grassy parks, and rough terrain favour the Savage for its tank-like durability. It is not a truck you baby — it is a truck you throw at the world and watch survive.
HPI Sprint 2 Sport / Flux
The Sprint 2 is HPI's touring car platform, a 1/10-scale on-road car that has been a staple of RC racing clubs in the Philippines for many years. The Sprint 2 Sport is the entry-level brushed version, while the Sprint 2 Flux uses a brushless drivetrain for competitive performance. RC clubs in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao have hosted Sprint 2 races for years, and the platform remains respected in the local racing community for its competitive handling and availability of aftermarket hop-up parts.
HPI Jumpshot SC
The Jumpshot is HPI's entry into the short-course truck segment — a category that exploded in popularity globally over the past decade. The Jumpshot SC is a 1/10-scale short-course truck with a more affordable price point than the Savage, making it an accessible option for Filipino hobbyists who want HPI quality without the premium price tag. It is suitable for both casual bashing and light competitive use.
HPI Bullet MT / ST Flux
The Bullet series offers a mid-range option between the entry-level Jumpshot and the high-performance Savage. The Bullet MT (monster truck) and ST (stadium truck) variants are popular with hobbyists who want a versatile basher that performs well on both dirt and hard surfaces. The Flux brushless versions are particularly well-regarded for their speed and handling balance.
HPI RC Price Guide Philippines 2026
HPI vehicles are mid-to-premium priced in the Philippine market. Prices vary depending on whether you are buying brand new from a hobby shop, a secondhand unit, or an imported product from an overseas retailer. The table below reflects approximate retail prices for new units.
| Model | Type | Drive System | Price Range (₱) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HPI Savage Flux HP | Monster Truck | 4WD Brushless | ₱18,000 – ₱28,000 |
| HPI Sprint 2 Sport | Touring Car | 4WD Brushed | ₱8,000 – ₱12,000 |
| HPI Sprint 2 Flux | Touring Car | 4WD Brushless | ₱14,000 – ₱20,000 |
| HPI Jumpshot SC | Short-Course Truck | 2WD Brushed | ₱5,500 – ₱9,000 |
| HPI Bullet MT Flux | Monster Truck | 4WD Brushless | ₱12,000 – ₱18,000 |
Where to Buy HPI RC in the Philippines
Dedicated RC Hobby Shops
HPI products in the Philippines are primarily sold through dedicated RC hobby shops rather than mass-market retailers. Shops in Metro Manila, Cebu City, and Davao carry HPI stock, though availability varies by location and current import shipments. Always call ahead to confirm stock before making a trip. The RCPinas shop directory lists hobby shops across the Philippines that carry premium RC brands including HPI.
Shopee and Lazada
Several authorised and third-party sellers list HPI products on Shopee and Lazada. This is a convenient option if you are outside Metro Manila, but exercise caution: verify that the listing is for a genuine HPI product and not a clone. Genuine HPI packaging and documentation should be included with any legitimate purchase.
Secondhand via Facebook Groups
The Filipino RC buy-and-sell Facebook community frequently features secondhand HPI vehicles at significant discounts. Because HPI is a quality brand, secondhand units often remain in excellent condition if properly maintained by the previous owner. This is an excellent way to get into HPI ownership at a more accessible price point. The RCPinas marketplace also lists secondhand RC vehicles from verified local sellers.
Parts Availability for HPI in the Philippines
Parts availability has been a concern for HPI owners since the brand's 2018 restructuring. The good news is that for popular models like the Savage and Sprint 2, most wear items (suspension arms, shock absorbers, spur and pinion gears, tyres) remain available through hobby shops and Shopee sellers who import directly. For less common models, parts may need to be ordered from international retailers. The HPI Racing global website has improved its parts support significantly since 2022.
HPI vs Traxxas vs Arrma: Which Is Right for Filipino Buyers?
Filipino hobbyists frequently compare HPI against Traxxas and Arrma when making a purchase decision. Here is an honest assessment:
- HPI vs Traxxas — Traxxas has stronger local distribution and better parts availability in the Philippines right now. However, HPI vehicles — particularly the Savage — are often considered more distinctly engineered for specific use cases rather than being mass-market products. If parts access is a priority, Traxxas has an edge. If you want a specific vehicle type like a large-scale touring car (Sprint 2), HPI may be your best option.
- HPI vs Arrma — Arrma has become the go-to bashing brand globally over the past few years, with excellent durability and a strong support network. HPI competes well in the racing segment (Sprint 2 vs Arrma Typhon), but for pure bashing, Arrma's modern engineering gives it an advantage. HPI retains a devoted following among hobbyists who value the brand's racing heritage.
The HPI Community in the Philippines
Despite the brand's quieter recent years compared to its early 2000s peak, HPI still has a dedicated following in the Philippines. Racing clubs that use the Sprint 2 platform continue to host competitive events, and Savage owners form a close-knit community of bashers and modifiers. If you own or are considering an HPI vehicle, join RCPinas to connect with local HPI owners who can share advice on parts sourcing, setup tips, and upcoming events in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HPI RC still a good brand in 2026?
Yes. While HPI went through corporate difficulties in 2018, the brand has stabilised and continues to support its popular models. For serious racers interested in touring cars or bashers who want the legendary Savage platform, HPI remains a very solid choice.
Where can I find HPI RC parts in the Philippines?
HPI parts for popular models are available at dedicated RC hobby shops and through Shopee and Lazada sellers who specialise in RC parts. For less common parts, international retailers like AliExpress (with local warehouse shipping) or the official HPI Racing webshop are your best options.
How much does an HPI Savage cost in the Philippines?
A new HPI Savage Flux HP typically costs between ₱18,000 and ₱28,000 in the Philippines depending on the seller and any current importation costs. Secondhand units in good condition can be found for ₱10,000–₱16,000 through Facebook buy-and-sell groups and the RCPinas marketplace.
Is the HPI Sprint 2 good for RC racing in the Philippines?
The Sprint 2 remains a competitive and respected platform for 1/10 electric touring car racing. Several RC clubs in Metro Manila and Cebu use Sprint 2 class races in their schedules. The Flux (brushless) version is recommended for competitive use, while the Sport (brushed) version is a good starting point for newcomers to racing.
Can beginners start with an HPI RC car?
HPI vehicles are generally aimed at intermediate to advanced hobbyists due to their price point and the assumption that the owner understands basic RC maintenance. For complete beginners in the Philippines, a budget brand like WPL or an entry-level Traxxas RTR is usually a better starting point. Once you have the basics down, an HPI vehicle is a rewarding upgrade.
