Updated: 13th October 2020
In our day we had to pedal! Here’s our guide to some of the most brilliant electric ride on cars for children (and jealous dads)!
Most dads can only dream of driving a BMW or Range Rover, but the children's versions are much more affordable and loads of fun. In fact, kids electric cars, motorbikes, and other vehicles have really taken off in the last few years. Thanks to improved battery technology and licensing agreements some of the biggest names in the automotive sector are now available. Here’s what you need to know.
Factors to consider
A. Children's Age / Weight
The age and weight that the car is designed for is a crucial consideration. The maximum rider weight is one you want to pay close attention to.
B. Safety features
Always look out for features and add-ons like a parental remote control, so you can control the speed and direction of the car.
Some faster models even come with seatbelts (though even with faster ride ons top speeds are usually only around 4mph). If you're looking for very young children look out for supportive seats to avoid topples.
C. Power
Ride on car batteries start at 6V, with 12V, 24V and even 36V also available. The higher the voltage, the higher the speed and the better the car will be at handling hills and rougher terrain. The 6V models may struggle with anything but gentler inclines and a smooth surface.
D. Price
Your probable spend will range from below £100 to several hundred pounds. There’s the cost of regularly topping up the battery to consider. At the higher end of the market you can pay more for little luxuries, like leather seats and shock absorbers.
The best kids electric cars - our reviews
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“Awesome. Solid machines. Well made. Long battery life. Children love them.”
As we all know, as children get older, life gets more expensive. This powerful kids’ quad bike is designed for tweens and up, and boasts some real kick from its 36V motor. It has three speed settings so you can control how fast your children go, and a twist grip throttle.
Key information
Age/weight: 3 - 7.
Assembly required: Some
Top speed: 20km/h
Remote control: No
"What can I say about this. Just two words - Absolutely Brilliant!"
A great option for fans of the Thomas the Tank Engine books and TV series, this 12V ride on comes with authentic Thomas face and light, interactive dashboard and two speed setting that gives you control.
Key information
Age/weight: 3+/30kg
Assembly required: Yes
Top speed: 3.8km/h
Remote control: No
“Fantastic present for my grandson.”
The 12V twin motors, coupled with chunky wheels, metal axles and safety belts for extra protection, make this a great choice for “off-roading” (we’re talking about the park rather than the Grand Canyon - it can be used on flat grass). It’s also a two-seater, so your child can have fun with a friend.
Key information
Age/weight: 3 - 7yrs/45kg
Assembly required: Some
Top speed: 6km/h
Remote control: Yes
“Good product. The function and quality are comparable with £200-250 similar cars in the toy store.”
Who doesn’t want a Jeep? This reasonably priced licensed model comes with 12V twin motors, light up dashboard, parental remote control and a sleek white finish. LED lights and opening doors complete an air of refined sophistication.
Key information
Age/weight: 3 - 5yrs/40kg
Assembly required: Some
Top speed: 3.5km/h
Remote control: Yes
“Well advertised, 3 year old boy's dream! Not too difficult to assemble...Surprisingly nippy…”
It’s not the quickest, but then who’s ever seen a superfast digger? This ride on yellow machine will fire your child’s imagination, and features forward and reverse gears, a working headlight and a comfortable seat with safety belt.
Key information
Age/weight: 3 - 8yrs/30kg
Assembly required: Yes
Top speed: 2.5km/h
Remote control: No
“My son totally loved it, and I rather did too!”
This spy-mobile looks great but a lack of extras keeps the price down. It does feature an MP3 socket to play music and a simple gear stick. Its 6V battery is fine for flat, smooth surfaces, but might struggle elsewhere.
Key information
Age/weight: 3+/Not specified
Assembly required: No
Top speed: 2.79mph
Remote control: No
“My three year old loves it. Bit slow. But fast enough.”
It’s not a car, but this cool looking ride on scooter is very good value, reliable and comes with a working headlight and special comfy seat. Be aware that the 6V battery is not the most powerful, and requires a 6-8 hour charge for 45 minute use.
Key information
Age/weight: 2 - 6yrs/25kg
Assembly required: Yes
Top speed: 2.5km/h
Remote control: No
“The lights are great, it spins around and goes back and forth wherever you want it to go. The bumper on it is great so nothing in the house will get destroyed.”
And now for something completely different, an electric ride on fairground waltzer. The 12V battery means this is perfect for executing 360 degree Waltzer spins and comes with atmospheric lights and music. The joystick control is simple to master.
Key information
Age/weight: 3+/Not specified
Assembly required: No
Top speed: N/A
Remote control: Yes
Kids ride on cars - your stories
There's nothing we love more than seeing dads and their children on their electric cars. Here are some of the stories we've loved and been inspired by.
#boys #fireman #firetruck #rideoncar #lovinglife
