SCALE MODEL NEWS

SMN report: LEGO builders number in their legions, but we've just come across someone who has blown our socks off, a Dutchman titled the ‘Mad Physicist.’ The day job The Mad Physicist is just that - a physicist - in his day job, and LEGO-building is strictly a hobby that’s far away from the computers and laboratory. The title came from fellow LEGO builders who sometimes seemed to think that he must have a way of doing things that others wouldn't normally come up with. Stunning LEGO models ‘Mad’ or not, the models are simply stunning, and we show just a couple here. The V-22 Osprey is not only a fair replica of the real thing - note the rotor blades even have their blade twists incorporated correctly - but it also has retractable landing gear ( pic above ). One of our favourite Mad constructions is called Brickston, a play on the South London borough of Brixton. We don’t know about the actual store names, but in general, the model matches our old-time memories of the place well....

SMN report: Great news for Volkswagen fans as it’s been confirmed that VW will produce a petrol/diesel version of the Bulli electric MPV concept in a couple of years - or maybe less. The VW Bulli was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2011, drawing applause for being an MPV that people might actually want to buy - in other words, a compact people-mover with some sense of style. It has to be said that not everyone was moved instantly - some VW fans muttered that the Bulli wasn’t dramatic enough, but our view a few months later is that it’s pretty OK.  Nice one - hefty box for the LEGO Camper Van. Brains not brawn The Bulli is not a big beast - just a little bigger than the VW Polo, in fact - but the concept showed that you don’t need bulk to have a fold-flat bed if clever design is allowed its head. The slot-in iPad on the fascia showed a sharp awareness of Apple’s masterpiece too, and follows airline practice as they accelerate replacing weighty flight manuals and comple...