With the new starting track introduced in 2026, I thought it would be helpful to review all the versions released since the creation of the GO range, making it easier to navigate the new and used market.
Starting tracks (power/connection tracks) in 1:43 scale, sharing the same geometry and plastic fasteners, are interchangeable on the track.
Carrera GO!!! starting tracks (and related 1:43 ranges)
| Type / Use | Rail name | Ref. | Exit period |
| Standard 2-way (2 power outlets) | Standard connecting rail | 61512 | ~2001 – 2010 |
| Standard 2 lanes (1 power outlet) | Standard connecting rail | 61530 | ~2010 – 2017 |
| Standard (New format and controllers) | Connection rail with 1 socket (Redesign) | 61666 | Since ~2017 |
| Wireless (2,4 GHz Wireless) | Wireless Starter Base (2 wireless controllers) | 61673 | Since ~2019 |
| Battery operated (Battery Power) | Power rail for battery box / D batteries | — | Since ~2015 |
| Interactive & Bluetooth | GO+ (GO Plus) connecting rail | 61662 | 2017 – 2023 (Stopped) |
| Digital 1:43 (Lane change) | Black Box / Wired Digital 143 Starter Rail | 42001 | 2008 – 2020 (Stopped) |
| Digital 1:43 (wireless controllers) | Black Box / Wireless Digital 143 Start Rail | 42013 | 2014 |
| Single lane (Single track) | Single lane | 61657 (Kit) | Since 2023 |
| With digital tachometer | Starting rail with digital tachometer and speed limiter | ??? | Since 2026 |
All GO starting rails are referenced “A” on the GO plan documentation.
61512 : Standard 2-way (2 power outlets)
The first track in the range.
This track is unique in that it has two power connectors; reversing them allowed you to reverse the direction of the cars on the track.
61530 : Standard (New 1-socket format)
Rails identical to the previous one but with a single power socket which did not allow the direction of the vehicles on the track to be reversed.
2008 Digital
42001 : Digital 1:43 (Lane change)
Previously reserved for 1/24 scale tracks, digital technology is now available for 1/43 scale tracks, retaining the track layout, though only three cars can run simultaneously. It also manages the switches for changing lanes.
I really like the decoration on the controller sockets, which are shaped like red and white tires.
42013 : Digital 1:43 (wireless controllers)
Wireless controllers are coming to the range with the starting rail which also allows them to be recharged.
2017 the technological breakthrough
61666 : Standard 2 lanes (New format and controls)
New controllers are appearing, and therefore a new starting rail which, for the occasion, has a more modern design.
61673 : Wireless (2,4 GHz Wireless)
Wireless start track for controllers, a version that allows for greater freedom of movement around the track and doesn’t require players to stay near the starting gate. Very practical for retrieving a car that’s gone off the track without letting go of the controller.
New decoration on the track to represent the start grid. The traditional checkered pattern is replaced by a solid line with the lane number and the words “START” and “FINISH”. And new this year: two U-shaped markers, just like on real racetracks, for positioning the cars.
—– : Battery operated (Battery Power)
Not sold separately, only as a set. This starter track is powered by 4 D-type (LR20) batteries. Offers a slightly lower speed compared to a version with a 220V power supply.
61662 : Interactive & Bluetooth
The arrival of GO+ and its app for tablets and phones brings Bluetooth and the option of using wireless controllers. Several game modes are available. For the first time, color-coded tracks appear on the track itself: a red rectangle and a blue rectangle to identify the lanes in relation to the app.
Note that an optional pit track was supported.
61657 : Single lane(Single track)
The Challenge range arrives in 2023 with a single-lane track. Perfect for solo racers and time trials.
Electronic starting rail with 4 game modes.
It’s a shame this set wasn’t given more prominence.
—- : Digital Tachometer
Not sold separately, only available as a set in 2026.
The latest addition to the 2026 lineup, this track features two digital displays for laps or time, depending on the game mode. No need for a separate track to keep track of laps!
It also includes a beginner mode that limits the speed of the cars.
Power is now supplied via a USB-C cable. Note: while the cable is included, the power adapter is not.
A very complete track that, to be perfect, would benefit from supporting wireless controllers.
25 years of power rails, CARRERA is certainly not going to stop there in innovating and offering us new racing experiences, see you in a few years.