I do recall the last time an American model company released any new Star Trek kits - the Enterprise E, C, or the last 3 piece set - they too recieved a lot of press and reviews from various sites.
Clearly Polar Lights has captured a market.
Sci-Fi model builders have always been out there, just give 'em a forum and see what they stir up.
Cross my heart, strike me dead, slap a lobster on my head.