Most young children aren&#;t fussy when it comes to toys. You can give your child any toy and chances are, you've got one happy kid. 

Though kids in general will not be very particular with their toys, as parents you should be. Play is so important in your kids social, emotional, physical and mental development so choosing your kids&#; play things should be appropriate to their age, stimulating to their brains and most importantly, safe for them to play with. 

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As your kids start to grow, giving them the right toys will help them explore and develop more skills. But with the various toys out there, you may ask, what types of toys?

Ride-on cars don't just give fun to kids. They also contribute to your child&#;s development. 

Aside from helping develop children's gross fine and motor skills, studies show that ride-on cars also help improve children&#;s spatial intelligence or visual thinking. As they explore their surroundings, their understanding of space widens. This skill often arises when they see potential bumps and learn how to manage the ride as they make turns, speed up or slow down.

However, with the varieties of ride-on cars in the market, choosing the right car for your little rider can be quite challenging.

&#;Should I get an SUV or a truck? What&#;s the  best colour? Green? Red? Black...?&#;

&#;Is 1 seater okay or should I get the 2 seaters?&#;  

&#;Can a 12v run for hours or should I get the 24v?&#; 

As you ask more questions and options keep coming, you start to feel overwhelmed and chances are, end up undecided.

To help you make the right choice, consider these 7 important things before buying a ride-on car for your little adventurers:

1. Number of Motors and Battery Size 

The motor is what makes the car&#;s wheels move forward or backward. A normal ride-on car will have one motor on the back wheel but there are also cars with dual motors. 

Dual Motor vs. Single Motor Cars

What&#;s the difference between a single motor and a dual motor car?

Dual or 2-motor

 

ride-on cars will have a motor on the back left wheel and a motor on the back right wheel. Moreover, dual-motor provides a smoother ride. If your rider weighs around 18kg - 25kg, dual motor cars are the best option as they can carry heavier children at a steady rate. This means the car will keep up its desired speed level even though the child is heavy. 

 

Check out the Big 2-Seat Beach-Cruiser 12v Kids Ride-On SUV w/ Remote, available in Red, Black, Camo and Pink!

Single or one motor

 

ride-on cars normally have the same speed as the dual motor. However, it slows down with increasing weight. If you&#;re up for a great deal and your child is below 15kg, a single motor ride-on car will be sufficient. 

 

Battery Size

Having a bigger battery size is always better. 12V is an ideal battery for ride-on cars. However, you will find 6V battery ride-on cars that are suitable for smaller children. Note that having a larger battery can make the car faster. 24Vs are rare but can be found on larger ride-on cars that can seat two children. 

2. Age Appropriateness

It is very important to choose a ride-on car that is appropriate for your child's age. As parents you should always consider your child's age to know what car is appropriate for them, not only for their comfort but also for their safety. 

Below is a guideline on children&#;s different ages and what to expect during these stages:

0&#;2 years old &#; This age group is very vulnerable to falls, as their motor skills are still in their early stages of development. Make sure the toy car has supportive seats and that the motor is low-powered. A car with a slow walking speed is good for this age. Most cars for this age are built for indoor use and have button systems instead of pedals like the Peg Perego Santa Fe Express 6v Ride-On Kids Train & Track. 

3&#;5 years old &#;

 

Most children at this age range have already developed their reflexes and motor skills that they ride a more powerful vehicle of a normal walking speed. Some can even handle 12V or 24V cars, depending on their ability and excitement. Children from this age group also tend to go for toy cars that are more car-like. Ride-on cars for 3&#;5-year-olds often have foot pedals and sound effects built into the car to make them realistic.

 

 5&#;8 years old &#; Starting age 5, children are capable of riding more advanced cars suitable to their coordination skills. They also like toy cars that look like the real ones. There are licensed versions of Fords, Jeeps, Ferraris, etc., which appear to be a favorite for kids this age. There are more features to stimulate their driving experience, and 24V is manageable to most like the Big 2-Seat Trail-Cat 24v Kids Ride-On Buggy w/ Remote - White. 

3. The Driving Surface 

Where you plan your kids to drive also needs some thoughtful consideration. To ensure a good driving experience, it is important to consider the surface or the space where the ride-on car will be driven on. 

Some cars have plastic tyres which are great for flat and smooth surfaces such as the Audi R8 Licensed Black 12v Ride-On Kids Car. While others like the Big 2-Seat Beach-Cruiser 12v Kids Ride-On SUV w/ Remote - Black have EVA rubber tyres that work very well on grass, gravel and rocky grounds. 

For off-road driving, you should be looking for a ride-on that has a great ground clearance and larger tyres to handle uneven and rough surfaces. Off-road ride-on kids&#; cars should at least be 12v and operate even better when they have more powerful batteries such as 24v. 

3. Design and Quality

When it comes to design, the options are endless! You will find tons of different styles of ride-on cars in the market. Just like real cars, ride-on cars have the SUV style, 4x4s, quads, pedals, and small kiddy ones that you push with your two feet.

For more high-end options, there are ride-on cars that are labelled as licensed. Their design mimics exactly that of its real car version, so sometimes they are tagged as &#;licensed replicas&#;. 

Licensed ride-on cars have to pay licensing fees to the car manufacturing company, so their quality must be superior. Therefore you get a 2-in-1 advantage with a licensed ride-on car - design and quality.

4. Remote Control Enable

Expect your child to be enthralled when you give a toy with motion. So, for first time ride-on car parents, get ready to experience a heart racing scene especially when you think your kids will be driving out of control. This often happens to younger kids who may not be quite ready to understand the concept of acceleration and this is where remote control enabled cars come in handy.

Remote control enabled cars are great for beginners. Your kids can use a ride-on car as early as 18 months (some can start using it at the age of 12 months) depending on the size of the child. What&#;s cool about having the remote control function is that your child at a very young age, will be able to enjoy the car even though their feet don&#;t reach the pedals yet. And you will be assured that they are safe as you take full control of the car while they are seated.

One thing to keep in mind with remote control enabled cars is their frequencies. A lot of R/C cars might have the same frequency (27mhz or 41mhz) which could disrupt their playing. Make sure you are not around other R/C cars that have the same frequency unless the car comes equipped with a 2.4GHZ R/C. 

The Hummer Style 12v Kids Ride-On Car w/ Remote  has a 2.4ghz remote control. This enables the car to work even around other R/C cars.

As your child grows to about ages 3-5 they can start controlling the car with the pedals and steering wheel. You may also start loosening up and slowly give them their independence. But don&#;t throw the remote yet! You can display them in your kid&#;s room to remind them of their first car.

5. Number of Seats

Big ride-on cars can have 2 seats, but most ride-on cars come with just one. One of the concerns we often receive with two-seaters is not the functionality or the speed of the car but the parents&#; concern with their kid&#;s constant fighting over who sits on the driver&#;s side! 

Another issue with the two-seater is the size. Some 2-seater ride on cars claim it fits two, but in reality, it is a 1.5 seater! Depending on the size of the riders, two-seater cars may fit just 1 child. Moreover, two-seaters are usually found in larger ride-on cars like the SUV style or an off-roader.

If you are looking for more sporty cars like the Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes AMG, Bentley, or Porsche, a one-seater style  is an ideal option, as it encompasses all the aspects of a sporty supercar.

One-seater cars also save space in your house or garage. On cooler days kids can drive these cars in larger open spaces inside the house. In addition, storing these cars is a lot easier than having the larger ones. Keep in mind the one-seater such as the Hummer, Mercedes, Lamborghini are pretty big in size but are still great for playing indoors as well as outdoors. 

6. Shipping Arrangements

Before buying your ride-on car, make sure you read the fine print on shipping. 

Take note that these cars are HUGE and shipping them out can range from $50 - $190 locally! Make sure the store you are buying includes their shipping with the price they offer. 

Here at Kids Car Sales, we offer Free Metro Shipping to business addresses for bulky items. Another great thing that we offer is depot collection. This option will save you money and time so touch base with us if you want us to find cheaper freight options for you. 

7. Warranty & After Sales Support

Here at Kids Car Sales, we strongly adhere to policies in relation to product guarantees. As a buyer, you can trust that all our products are covered by the manufacturer&#;s warranty. To find out more about kids ride-on car warranties, check out our policies here. 

We also take pride in our dedication to always deliver our best. For years, our customer support has strengthened our commitment to providing the extra mile service. We continue to provide quality products while building good relationships with our customers. We see to it that our after-sales service makes our products and services meet or even surpass our customers&#; expectations

In summary, ride-on cars are not just playthings but it can be a great toy to boost your child&#;s independence and can carry your kids through many developmental stages. So it&#;s important to be as wise as possible when buying these toys for your little cruisers. 

Aside from the things mentioned above, always make sure that the car you&#;re purchasing passes the quality standard and is equipped with a safety seat belt to promote safety awareness to your little riders. 

Now, you&#;re ready to begin looking for the best ride-on car! You may also use our handy car finder to guide you in finding the perfect kids ride-on car. For more questions, our helpful customer service team is always ready to help. Contact us on  79 42 40.

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Kids Ride On Cars: The Ultimate Guide

By Hannah Hill
April 4,
(Updated: August 12th, )

Kid&#;s electric toy cars offer a fun and safe way for children to play and learn while they drive. These cars come in different shapes and sizes, with various features and accessories to match the needs and preferences of kids of all ages.

Goto habibi to know more.

Buying a ride-on car can be a tricky process. But, with the correct information and guidance, you can find the perfect one to provide hours of fun and thrills for your child.

This guide will answer everything you need to know about kids ride-on cars. We will cover the different types and features available, age appropriateness, safety considerations, and cleaning and maintenance tips to help you make an informed decision and ensure that your child has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Part One

What Age are Ride On Cars for?

The recommended age kids ride on cars are for is between 3 to 8 years old. 6-volt toys are great for very young children, while 12v and 24v vehicles are suitable for slightly older kids. Although it is worth keeping in mind that non-electric push-along ride on cars are suitable for toddlers aged 1+.

It is essential to follow the manufacturer&#;s recommendations for age appropriateness, as some toys may have specific age guidelines due to the vehicle&#;s size, voltage, and other features.

It is also important to supervise children using these toys and ensure they are used safely and responsibly.

Picking the appropriate car and following safety guidelines can ensure that your child has an enjoyable and safe experience.

Part Two

Kids&#; Ride-On Car Safety Advice

Kid&#;s ride-on cars include many safety features, such as seat belts, a parental remote control, and some types of toys such as ride on motorbikes, feature stabilisers to stop the toy tipping over. Following all safety guidelines and warnings when using these fun-filled toy vehicles is essential.

This may include wearing appropriate protective gear, such as a helmet and knee pads, and staying within the recommended age and weight limits.

It&#;s also important to supervise children while they are using these toys and to ensure that the vehicles are used in a safe and responsible manner.

Additionally, we recommend regularly inspecting the ride-on for any damage or wear and following proper maintenance guidelines to ensure that the vehicle remains in good working order.

Part Three

How Fast do Children&#;s Electric Cars Go?

The top speed of kids&#; ride-on cars varies depending on the size of the toy and its voltage. Some 6-volt vehicles may have a top speed of just a few miles per hour, while others, such as 24v toys, may reach speeds of up to 8mph or more.

Always check the manufacturer&#;s specifications for the toy car to determine its top speed.

Additionally, it&#;s essential to follow any safety guidelines and warnings provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the car is used in a safe and responsible manner. Parents looking to increase the speed of the toy can read our expert-level guide.

Part Four

How Long Does a Ride-On Car Battery Last?

On average, a 12v battery for a kids&#; ride-on car can last for around 60 minutes of continuous use, with 24v batteries lasting up to 2 hours.

However, this can vary depending on a number of factors. For example, if the surface the car is being driven on is rough or uneven, this can put additional strain on the battery and shorten the time it can be used. Additionally, if the car is driven at high speeds or with a heavy load, this can also decrease the amount of time the battery will last.

In order to get the most out of your battery, it&#;s important to follow proper maintenance and charging guidelines. This can include regular charging, appropriate storage, and always using a charger specifically designed for the battery.

Following these guidelines can help ensure that the battery stays in good working order and extends its lifespan.

Part Five

How Long Does Kids Ride On Car Assembly Take?

Kids ride on car assembly takes around 15 minutes depending on the complexity level and size of the toy. Some models may be relatively easy to assemble, such as push along toys, while others will be more complex and require more time and effort.

As a general rule, parents will have to connect the battery and attach the wheels and steering wheel to the vehicle.

It is important to carefully read the assembly instructions and follow them closely to ensure that the car is assembled properly and safely. Our team have put together some handy assembly videos for our most popular models.

Part Six

How Much do Childrens&#; Ride-On Cars Cost?

The cost of a children&#;s ride-on car can vary greatly depending on various factors, such as licensing, size, features, and battery voltage. Some smaller models can cost just over £100, while some top-of-the-range 24v cars can cost nearer £500.

It is important to consider the long-term cost of ownership, including the cost of batteries, maintenance, and repairs.

Part Seven

Licensed Ride On Cars Vs. Unlicensed: What&#;s the Difference?

Licensed ride on cars are produced by companies that pay a licensing fee to the manufacturer of the vehicle the toy is replicating.

These toys are typically created with the guidance of the parent company&#;s engineers and often feature greater attention to detail in construction, paintwork, and electronics compared to unlicensed models.

However, it is important to note that this superior quality often comes with a higher price tag. An unlicensed ride-on toy may be more cost-effective if you&#;re on a budget or looking for a first-time vehicle.

While unlicensed cars can still be just as fun and safe, they may have a different level of style or finishing touches than licensed models. To distinguish the difference, it is relatively simple, licensed ride-on cars usually come with official badges and stickers. In contrast, unlicensed cars typically have words like &#;lookalike&#; and &#;inspired&#; in their name.

Part Eight

Ride On Car Accessories

In addition to the basic ride-on car features, several accessories can enhance the play experience and provide additional functionality. These include:

Covers

While this might not be the most exciting accessory on the list, it&#;s undoubtedly the most practical, especially if you&#;re planning on storing the toy outside. Available in various sizes to fit all types of ride-on, simply pop the cover over the top and fasten it around the car&#;s bottom edge to keep the elements at bay.

Training Cones and Traffic Lights

These accessories are fantastic for helping children develop their hand-eye coordination and teaching them essential skills like judging distances, braking at speed, and turning sharp corners without swerving off course. Plus, they transform any boring old driveway into a mini racetrack, instantly amping up your little one&#;s driving experience.

Stickers & Decals

From police badges to taxi signs, racing stripes to speedometer gauges, decals are one of the easiest ways to give a ride-on toy authentic flair. Our favourite vinyl stickers are personalised number plates as you can add the driver&#;s name and, on some, the flag of their national country. Now would seem a good time to mention that all of our cars come with free personalised number plate sticker kits!

Transport Handles

Make picking up and packing away your child&#;s car a breeze by mounting a transport handle to the rear. They also offer extra grip for you to grab and direct the vehicle if it looks like they might be heading towards trouble.

Part Nine

Can Kids&#; Electric Cars be Driven Indoors and Outdoors?

Kid&#;s ride-on cars can be enjoyed both inside and outdoors. However, when using the toy indoors, it&#;s important to take into consideration the size of the drivable space and any potential safety hazards. Additionally, it&#;s worth noting that cars with hard plastic wheels may not perform well on wet or uneven outdoor terrain.

When it comes to indoor use, safety is of paramount importance. Parents should make sure that the space in which the car will be driven is clear of obstacles and that there is enough room for the child to safely manoeuvre the car.

To ensure optimal performance and traction on outdoor surfaces, it&#;s recommended to opt for a toy with EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) rubber wheels. These types of wheels offer improved grip and stability for a more enjoyable experience.

Part Ten

Weight Limits for Children&#;s Electric Cars

When it comes to the weight capacity of kids&#; electric ride-on cars, it&#;s important to consider the voltage of the vehicle.

On average, 6-volt ride-on cars can safely support a weight of up to 20 kilograms, while 12-volt toys can typically accommodate a weight of up to 30 kilograms. For the higher-powered 24-volt kid&#;s car, the maximum weight capacity is 35 kilograms.

It&#;s essential to keep these weight limits in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience for your child.

Part Eleven

How Long to Charge Ride on Car Battery?

On average, a 6v, 12v or 24v ride-on car battery takes 8-10 hours to charge fully. However, the exact charging time depends on the model and battery size. It&#;s also worth noting that the first charge of a new battery may take longer than subsequent charges.

The manufacturer&#;s instructions for your specific car will advise exactly how long the vehicle needs to be charged initially and thereafter.

Ride-on cars can be charged using a standard UK mains charger, but it is crucial to use the charger that came with the toy to avoid damaging the battery, meaning the battery would need to be replaced. Utilising an incompatible charger can negatively impact the battery&#;s ability to retain a charge.

Part Twelve

Choosing the Best Ride-On Car for your Child

When choosing a children&#;s ride-on car, you may come across options with 6v, 12v, or 24v battery sizes, with the &#;v&#; representing volts &#; the unit of measurement for the electrical energy supplied to the car&#;s motor.

Generally, larger battery sizes offer higher power output, resulting in faster speeds for the vehicle.

Some ride-on toys feature adjustable speed settings, enabling you to customise the velocity based on the driver&#;s proficiency. However, for most, the appropriate voltage level should be chosen based on the age of your child.

Here is a quick guide to help you pick the right vehicle:

• 6v batteries: For younger children, a 6v battery size is often recommended, as it typically allows speeds of up to 2-3 mph (varying based on the child&#;s weight). This battery size is suitable for smooth indoor or outdoor surfaces such as tarmac but not for more rugged outside terrains such as grass or mud.
• 12v batteries: The 12v battery size is the most widely available option in the market. It can achieve maximum speeds of 4-5mph on different terrains, including gravel and dirt tracks.
• 24v batteries: The 24v battery size is ideal for older children or more experienced riders seeking an adrenaline rush. These batteries can reach speeds up to 7mph, even on hilly terrain. A fun fact to note is that 24v batteries are more energy-efficient than 12v batteries as they consist of two lower-powered 12-volt batteries connected in series.

Get a Personalised Recommendation

Enter a your child&#;s age, weight and height, and our recommendation calculator will advise which type of car is most suitable for them.

Age (years)

Weight (kg)

Height (cm)

Get Recommendation

Part Thirteen

Do Children&#;s Electric Cars Have a Remote Control for Adult Supervision?

Yes, most kid&#;s ride-on cars have a 2.4 GHz remote control for adult supervision. This feature allows a parent or guardian to control the vehicle remotely, providing an extra layer of safety for children using the toy.

This feature can be used to set the speed, stop the car if necessary, and even control the car&#;s direction. Read our handy guide to pairing your parental remote control with your toy car.

Part Fourteen

How To Clean and Maintain Your Kids&#; Car

Maintaining the cleanliness and upkeep of a kids&#; electric car is crucial to guarantee its longevity and safe operation for your little one.

Finding an appropriate storage space is one of the first steps in maintaining the car. It is important to note that lead-acid batteries should not be stored in extreme hot or cold temperatures. It&#;s always best to store the car indoors. However, if outdoor storage is the only option, purchasing a dust and rain cover that fits tightly over the vehicle, including the wheels, will help protect it from bad weather.

The battery, similar to the engine of an actual car, acts as the power source of the ride-on toy, and proper maintenance is essential to ensure that it continues to function correctly. It is highly recommended to charge the battery at least once a month, even if the car is not in use. However, it&#;s important to avoid overcharging the battery by unplugging it after 8-10 hours, as this can significantly decrease the battery&#;s lifespan.

If the battery needs replacing, it&#;s important to consult the manual for guidance on choosing a compatible battery and adequately connecting it to the car.

Regular cleaning after use is vital to keep your kids&#; electric car in great shape. A simple cleaning routine can do wonders for the longevity of your toy. Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the car&#;s exterior, being mindful to avoid any electrical components or openings.

For particularly tough stains or grime, a mild detergent can be used to aid in removing dirt and debris. Afterwards, rinse the car thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth to prevent any water spots or damage to the paint. This will help keep your vehicle looking new and prolong its life.

Part Fifteen

Can Ride-On Cars be Driven by Children with Special Needs?

Yes, it is possible for children with special needs to use kids electric cars. Some brands or models may offer additional safety features, or be more easily adaptable for children with different abilities.

It is always advisable to check the manual or product specifications for any specific information on the product that may be relevant to the needs of children with special needs.

Part Sixteen

What is the Best Ride On Car for Grass?

The best ride on car for grass is a kids electric quad bike. With their sturdy build and wide plastic tyres, these powerful toys offer superior stability and traction, ensuring a smooth and thrilling ride for adventurous young drivers over bumpy and muddy outdoor terrains.

About the Author

Hannah Hill

Entrepreneur, and mother of three. Hannah is a toy expert with 20+ years in the online toy industry, founding the Kidaroos website that sells 10,000+ toys per year. Hannah is always looking for new, innovative ways to keep everyone's kids active and energised in a world full of screens and social media and has been featured in publications such as Authority Magazine.

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