Hot Wheels Takes Iconic Orange Track to the Next Level With New Snap Feature, Its Most Significant Innovation in 50 Years

New Patented Hot Wheels Speed Snap Track System will start hitting retail shelves in June

EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) announced that Hot Wheels®, the number one selling toy in the world¹, is updating its tracks and playsets to feature a Speed Snap™ Track System, its most significant track innovation since it debuted the iconic orange track in 1968. Designed to transform the way kids build and play, this new modular system streamlines assembly, enhances track customization and elevates playability, delivering an unmatched play experience.

The Speed Snap Track System features a patented, simple snap-together design, enabling kids to build expansive tracks independently, meaning kids can get to playing faster than ever before. From high-speed circuits to jumps and loops, the modular system is designed for endless creativity. Included adaptors ensure full compatibility with existing Hot Wheels track pieces, giving fans the flexibility to expand and enhance their current builds.

“Hot Wheels has always fueled imaginative racing and over-the-top stunts, but we heard from consumers that there was room to make track play even better. From easier assembly to more seamless play and simpler storage, we accepted the challenge,” said Roberto Stanichi, executive vice president and Global Head of Vehicles and Building Sets. “The Speed Snap Track System is our response, a breakthrough system designed to make track building as intuitive as snapping pieces together, empowering Hot Wheels fans to create bigger, bolder and more action-packed courses with ease. And, to help the parents, easier and faster clean-up.”

The development of the Speed Snap Track System was driven by a deep understanding of real consumer challenges. The Hot Wheels team conducted a consumer survey that revealed less than a third of kids ages 3-6 were able to assemble traditional Hot Wheels track sets independently, pointing to a significant opportunity to improve usability for younger users.² Additionally, from the parents’ perspective, limited space, complicated setup and difficult storage emerged as key barriers to both initial purchase and continued engagement.³

In response to these insights, Hot Wheels set out to reimagine its track system, prioritizing independence, flexibility and family living spaces in mind. The result is a more accessible, intuitive, and satisfying play experience that keeps the fun going for kids while maximizing ease for parents.

Complementing the track innovation, Hot Wheels also unveils the brand’s Hot Wheels Track Creator™ app, an interactive companion designed to elevate play. The app provides step-by-step 3D instructions for easy assembly, along with inspiration for new build combinations. Available for free download on Apple and Google Play app stores, the digital integration fosters creativity and empowers kids and parents to get the most out of Hot Wheels tracks and playsets.

The new Speed Snap Track System will be available at major retailers nationwide this fall, with select products hitting retail as early as June 1. The initial product line includes a Triple Loop Speed Kit ($29.99) and the Boosted Jump Speedway Kit ($39.99), which taps into kids’ imagination with customizable layouts, and Straight Track Packs ($2.99) for kids to connect their sets to take the fun to the next level. Mattel will continue to expand the Speed Snap Track offering even further in the years to come.

For the latest information and to explore the future of track play, please visit www.HotWheels.com.

About Mattel

Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends™, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Matchbox®, Monster High®, MEGA® and Polly Pocket®, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit us at mattel.com.

MAT-W

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1.	Source: Circana, LLC, Retail Tracking Service, G10 (US,CA,BR,SP,IT,DE,UK,FR,AU,MX), Total Toys, Projected USD, JAN – DEC 2024
2.	Hot Wheels Trackset and Playset A&U Study, 2022
3.	Track Sets & Playsets Barriers Report, 2020