Well, it turns out that I wasn't very successful with the soaking method, after all. After soaking the wood over night, it just cracked when I tried to bend it. But never mind, I will solve this problem in a different way that won't involve bending.
Anyway, while the glue of the second bow band settles, I did some more soldering on the servo / electronics plate. I don't think it's much of a secret that I'm a bit more capable with the soldering iron than I'm at bending wood
Also, I finally went and bought (mail ordered) the RC set and it should arrive tomorrow or on thursday. Then I can complete the board and smoke test everything.
BTW I now covered the car body filler parts with glass fibre and epoxy as some of you guys advised. It's not very pretty in places but it sure adds security and stability.