While we adults um and ah over whether to go electric, wondering if perhaps we should wait just a little longer for the next technological advance in EVs, the world of miniature EVs is evolving, too.
We all had pedal cars - mine was red and of particular importance, possessed a handbrake. However, while pedal power is still around, electric cars for kids have become impressively advanced. Regarding the good ones at least, no longer do they inch forward two feet before projecting an electronic death knell and carking it. As you will see below, there are is an amazing range to choose from.
As much as we would like to, unfortunately, we're all a bit large to try out these models, so we've dedicated time, experience, and good judgement to the cause instead.
The best electric cars for kids:
The ultimate ride on
This is the ultimate kid's electric ride-on car. It's powered by a 12-volt battery that gives about 45 minutes of run time. This Lambo has a top speed of about five kilometres an hour, but don't worry parents, it has a remote control to prevent loss of control at such high speeds. Cool extras include a horn, LED lights, and MP3 music input. Aimed for ages three to eight; maximum user weight is 30kg.
Pros
- Looks awesome
Cons
- Limited run time
Italian style
The most stylish way to travel to the bottom of the garden and back, this 6V Vespa is an excellent choice. Fitted with stabilisers and back support, you'll know they won't get hurt. In no time at all, they'll be whizzing about and pretending to drink espressos like a real Italian. Ciao!
Pros
- A very stylish option
- Working lights and horn
Cons
- Takes 8 - 21 hours to fully charge
For a Cars fan
If your child is a massive fan of the Cars franchise then there can be no better gift then a genuine Lightning McQueen to zoom around in.
Pros
- Let them pretend to be their favourite film star
Cons
- It'll be hard to store
A working fire engine!
Firefighters are heroes and loads of children idolise them. Let them live out their firefighting dreams without fire and in total safety with this ride-on fire engine. With fully functional flashing lights and mini-siren, their imagination will go wild and they're sure to have hours of fun. A working bubble hose only sweetens the deal.
Pros
- Working siren, lights and bubble gun
Cons
- Small battery size
Race bike thrills in your garden
A superbike is cool no matter your age, but this electric model for children is awesome. Fully licensed by Kawazaki, this is a serious piece of kit. It offers a top speed of nearly 4mph, an electronic brake and removable stabilisers. It's also better equipped than some cars, featuring a jack for playing music and LED lights.
Pros
- Best-equipped option here
- Looks super cool
Cons
- A very pricy option
The ultimate hypercar
Keeping up with the Joneses can now extend to your children's toys with this incredible Bugatti Chiron. With a dizzying top speed of around four kilometres per hour, this hypercar in miniature is aimed at children three to eight years old, with a maximum user weight of 30kgs. Added luxuries include a leather seat, reverse function and MP3 music input options. It's available in either blue, pink or black.
Pros
- Great looking and well-optioned
Cons
- Battery drains very quickly
Futuristic ride on
The i8 was one of the real 'wow' moments in the history of cars. It was a taster of where the world of sports cars is heading. But it is rather expensive. However, this miniature version is considerably less so. Designed for kids between ages three and eight (or up to 30kg), this mini i8 has a run time of roughly one hour. It has proper suspension and a remote control for parents.
Pros
- Looks brilliant
- Value
Cons
- It doesn't do endurance
Cool 4X4
A Jeep is synonymous with adventure. If your kid is more into trucks and 4x4s than sports cars, this is a superb option. Aimed at ages three to eight (or up to 30kg), this truck has a top speed of up to five kilometres per hour. Also comes in white, pink, and navy camo.
Pros
- Best 4x4 option
- Chunky tyres
Cons
- Popular - it won't last long
Check out our articles and advice on full-sized electric cars:
If you want the latest news and reviews on current and upcoming EVs, CAR has the topic covered. We're not only reporting on the latest EV news and taking quick test drives, we frequently have EVs on long-term tests to get an accurate taste of how they perform in the real world.
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