I think Mike is looking to have final revision Prototypes ready for the iHobby show. Production following that would need to answered by him though. I wouldnt think it should take to long once the final revision prototypes are completed and confirmed.
To answer an earlier question:
Both the center drive shafts would need to be upgraded if you plan to use the older version of the XT8. Its designed to be bolt on for the '09 Spec. The older XT8 has different length drivesahafts in the center on both front and rear. But trust me guys, its a worth while upgrade to get the extra chassis length. It really settles the truck down and makes it very consistent on the track. Very much worth it to stretch the older version XT8 IMO.
Other than that everything else is bolt on for the older XT8 as well.
I can't decide if its more fun
to make it...
or break it...
Mike I had talked to you about the rc8t, but after reading this post I pulled the trigger on a XT8 I had been watching on ebay. Consider another sold when they are ready.
Anodizer are killing me(actually, the holidays are probably the root cause of the delays), but I thought I would post a teaser picture of the assembled parts "pre-anodized" :