隨著近年內地對N比例火車模型的興致甚殷，連帶對配套的汽車、建築和場景模型的需求也日益增長。在這樣的背景下，魔都模型設計有限公司於2022年推出了專注於1/160 N比例模型的子品牌——Minicity迷擬城，以弘揚中國文化為目標。

4月，筆者在中國國際模型博覽會上認識品牌負責人戚氏兄弟（七號星星及七號月亮）。在展會現場，Minicity迷擬城在一眾1/64比例的品牌重重包圍下，以一個巨大的沙盤展示了旗下最新的灰模及產品。Minicity迷擬城的產品豐富，涵蓋汽車模型、建築模型以及場景等多個類別。品牌首款產品是乘龍H7貨櫃車，採用中歐班列塗裝。他們花費了長達一年的時間進行研發與考證，單是多菱角中網就足足花了三個月，力求在極小的空間內精確保留原車設計，在印刷技術上下了不少功夫，使得模型上的圖案更加還原真車。不單在內地，N比例貨櫃車在港同樣受歡迎；火車場景同樣受關注，只因Minicity貨車、建築場景可以解決現時有車無景的情況。

未來除了郵遞、速遞品牌外，Minicity還計畫推出港澳地區主題的作品。「我們可以從其他國家品牌的產品體現到各國文化，我們亦緊隨步伐，造出屬於中國特色的N比例產品。」單打獨鬥當然不夠，他們於不同品牌聯乘，又會推出時代記憶、歷史事件、汽車文化等專題產品，務求「做大個餅」，讓更多人參與。因此，他們未來會向航運、航空、更多的場景發展，讓更多人「入坑」。

Minicity迷擬城的產品不時斷貨，有時出現「一車難求」。相信不久的將來會有更多N比例鐵道模型落地，Minicity「承建商」的角色似乎愈來愈吃重。至於香港有什麼產品，值得留意。

The Rise of N Scale – Minicity’s Miniature Revolution

In recent years, mainland China has witnessed a surge of interest in N scale train models, sparking a growing demand for complementary car, building, and scenery models. Seizing this opportunity, Magic City Model Design Co., Ltd. launched Minicity in 2022, a sub-brand dedicated to 1/160 N scale models with the ambitious goal of promoting Chinese culture through miniature art.

This April, at the China International Model Expo, the author had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Qi, the visionary behind Minicity. Amidst a sea of 1/64 scale brands, Minicity stood out with an impressive display featuring their latest prototypes and products on a massive diorama. The brand’s diverse portfolio encompasses an array of car models, architectural replicas, and intricate scenery pieces.

Minicity’s debut product, the Chenglong H7 container truck adorned with China-Europe Railway Express livery, exemplifies their commitment to excellence. The team invested a full year in meticulous research and development, dedicating three months alone to perfecting the multi-angled grille. Their goal was to faithfully recreate the original vehicle design within the constraints of N scale. Advanced printing techniques were employed to ensure the model’s patterns closely mirrored those of the real truck.

The appeal of N scale extends beyond mainland China, with Hong Kong enthusiasts showing particular interest in container trucks and train scenery. Minicity’s offerings address a common hobbyist challenge: the lack of suitable scenery to complement existing train models.

Looking ahead, Minicity plans to expand its range to include postal and express delivery brands, as well as Hong Kong and Macau-themed creations. As Mr. Qi explains, “Just as products from international brands reflect their national cultures, we’re crafting N scale models that embody uniquely Chinese characteristics.”

Recognizing the power of collaboration, Minicity is partnering with various brands to launch themed collections celebrating historical events, automotive culture, and nostalgic memories. Their strategy aims to “expand the market” and attract a broader audience. Future plans include forays into shipping, aviation, and more diverse scenarios to entice newcomers to the hobby.

The popularity of Minicity’s products often leads to stock shortages, with some items becoming highly sought after. As the N scale railway modeling scene in China continues to flourish, Minicity’s role as a key “supplier” in the industry appears to be growing increasingly vital. Enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating what new products might emerge for the Hong Kong market.