10 Best Electric Cars for Kids to Ride in 2020
Selina Marie 
Hristina Beep, beep! Baby on board but not just that, this time baby is driving the bus. (Uh oh!) But not to worry: these electric cars are built for little ones to be able to take the wheel. Ride-along cars help children develop motor skills, hand-eye coordination, responsibility, and reflexes. And they’re also just plain fun. Kids love mimicking mom and dad, and driving is one of the grown up activities they most look forward to. These ten electric vehicles are some of the best “first cars” you can gift to a child. They’re all lauded as the most durable, safest, and kid-approved models on the market. Buckle up!
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Parental Remote Control
2-3 speeds available based on who’s driving
Audio hookup to play music
Harness seat belt
Soft start and braking functions
10 Best Electric Cars for Kids Reviewed
1. Disney Frozen Jeep Wrangler
Two-seater
Weight capacity 130lbs
Maximum Speed 5 mph
FM device
Spacious Cargo Bay
Available in one color
Inauthentic steering column
All those Frozen fans will love racing their very own electric ride on Jeep. As they adventure off in their favorite characters displayed in each of the features of the movie they will be smiling from ear to ear and listen to the theme song over and over again from the built in the soundbox. The colors and the graphics of the entire Jeep Wrangler are all based around everything from the movie and more.
Read moreDesign
This ride on car for girls’ Jeep Wrangler is one cute and lovable yet tough looking electric car for kids to drive. It has all the different designs from the movie Frozen emblazoned all over its body painted in light blue with purple bumpers and windshield frame.
The doors open to cute light purple seats with the crossbar of the rollover bar forming additional support for the kids’ backs. Towards the back of the Jeep is a spacious cargo bay for additional storage space; perfect for storing your little princess’ gadgets and essentials.
Capacity
The Jeep conveniently seats 2 little princesses for a combined weight of 130 pounds. This 12 volt ride on cars main benefit is a rechargeable battery that powers the Jeep Wrangler’s drivetrain to a maximum of 5 miles per hour. Now, if it is a younger princess behind the wheel, Mom and Dad can simply lock-out the high speed setting so it cruises at a safer speed of 2.5 miles per hour.
Entertainment Value
It’s got wide ATV like tires spread across a wide wheelbase with an excellent ground clearance. The tread of the tires gives it superb traction and gripping prowess so kids won’t be skidding off slippery surfaces. With wheels like these your child can conquer any terrain while trying to save the kingdom.
2. Moderno Kiddie Roadster
Parental Remote Control
2-3 speeds available based on who’s driving
Audio hookup to play music
Harness seat belt
Soft start and braking functions
Kids’ controls don't’ turn off when the Parental remote is on
Turning is tricky from Parental remote
When the little ones are ready to ride in an electric car, but the parents completely comfortable with them steering the entire operation, this is a great option. It features a three speed parental controlled remote to completely control every function like they were right in the car riding with their little one. The car also has the ability to be controlled, but the driver. So from dependent to independent this car will drive you through both stages.
Read moreDesign
With a harnessed seat belt, this car is safe for kids between one and three years of age, so if you have a toddler who’s itching for their own ride-on, this is the car for you. The Parental Remote allows you to stop the car, drive it forward or reverse, pick between high and low speeds, and turn the lights on and off. A soft start and electric brake system mean no jerky, bumpy rides.
Capacity
It’s battery powered, by a 12V (like most ride-on cars), with two motors, and two speeds available to children. A parental remote allows adults to choose between three speeds, ranging between 2 MPH and 4 MPH.
Entertainment Value
The wheels feature traction bands for tough surfaces, and an MP3 player integrated into the car allows audio input from Micro SD cards, USB Flash Drives, and external music devices like iPods, iPhones, and Androids. Kids can rock out while they roll along!
3. Moderno Mercedes
Available in a variety of different colors
Includes parental remote
Equipped with a 5 point safety harness
Designed with USB and AUX port
Assembly instructions may be difficult for some
The car that gets the most points for just being on point is this official ride on Mercedes CLA45. It is an official model and is a single rider. It features all the same features as the on the road model, but in a small version that looks just as fabulous. The features are amazing, from the PU leather seat to the smooth start and soft braking system this car will totally blow the kids away when they see it.
Read moreDesign
Toddlers between the ages of one and five will have a blast driving their brightly colored Mercedes. This car is equipped with 2 powerful motors and two forward speeds. However, if the vehicle is being operated with the parental remote is has 3 different speeds. The soft leather seat is designed with a five point safety seat belt to ensure that your child is secure while they drive. Underneath the car is a Blue LED light, that lets off a soft glow as your child drives. When purchasing you can choose between several different car colors to match your child’s style.
Capacity
This ride on vehicle is able to hold one child under 66 pounds. With three different speeds, this car can travel two to five miles per hour.
Entertainment Value
The rubber tires will allow your child to drive over a variety of terrains. The dashboard has both a USB and an AUX port so your little one can hook up your iPod, iPad, or phone and blast their favorite tunes.
4. Uenjoy Mercedes Benz
Plays music from the radio or via bluetooth/USB
Both sets of wheels are designed with the spring suspension system
Seatbelt and double lockable doors provide extra safety
Equipped with three different speeds
Instructions may be hard to understand
In great details this ride on car is a scaled down version of a Mercedes-Benz and is really impressive. It features a parent controlled mode and a manual operation mode. The two mode ride on car is designed and has many functions just like the real car. Each of the cars has LED lights, an MP3 player, and even a power display. The details will really shine through on this electric ride on car and the kids will love the details as much.
Read moreDesign
The foot pedal and shift lever makes it easy for children to operate this vehicle independently. Included with the car is a parental remote that allows you to operate the vehicle while your child sits comfortably. The front and rear wheels are designed with spring suspension which will provide your child with a smooth ride indoors and outdoors. The seatbelt and the double lockable door will keep your child safely inside the vehicle. When purchasing you can choose between a pink or a black Mercedes.
Capacity
Equipped with 13.7 inch seat, this car is only able to hold one child that weighs under 77 pounds. The two 12 volt motors allow the car to go three different speeds.
Entertainment Value
While this car does allow you to play music via Bluetooth or the USB port, it is also equipped with preset songs and stories to keep your child entertained as they drive. In fact it even allows you child to listen to FM radio. The fully functional horn lets bystanders know your child is coming through.
5. Peg Perego John Deere Force Tractor
Authentic steering wheel
All-terrain
Ultra-Large tractor wheels
Adjustable seat and armrests
Doesn’t mimic industrial engine sounds
Low speed variation
Let the little one take on the outdoor world with this awesome tractor. It will truly take their outdoor experience to a whole new level. They will be excited to listen to their FM radio as they cruise the yard, and then detach the trailer for a whole new look. The tractor has many features including an adjustable seat, two speeds, and supportive armrests that really just add to the details. One of the best features is the smooth handling and ride that parents will feel comfortable letting the kid’s adventure around the yard.
Read moreDesign
The seat is fully adjustable while the armrests can be easily flipped up for easy access. You can look at the John Deere Ground Force Tractor as the farm equipment equivalent of a 4WD off-roader. The steering wheel is designed to mimic the real thing. It also features an FM radio to make farming more pleasant and enjoyable
Capacity
The John Deere has a maximum speed of 4.5 miles per hour and is a firm favorite in our list. For younger farmers-to be, this electric car can be set to a maximum speed of 2.25 MPH so you don’t have to worry about your younger children getting themselves into trouble.
Entertainment Value
This farming electric car for kids to drive provides a very realistic experience of driving. Powered by a 12-volt rechargeable battery, the tractor’s large wheels can roll over any terrain with ease whether it be on a real farm where it’s all dirt, mud, and grass or even right at the park, your very own backyard, or the beach. You kid can also take it for a spin around the neighborhood complete with a wooden stake-sided trailer.
6. Ride On Truck w/ Remote Control 12V
Single rider electric truck
Best suited for ages 3 years old to 8 years old
Features; operation by rider or by remote control
Includes 3 speed options; low, medium, and high
Encourages development of fine and gross motor skills
Two lower speeds are very slow
Battery life is short
Cruising in the truck that is just their size will be their new favorite thing to do. As the sun shines down, they have their tunes on, and the grass is below their wheels they will be cruising like they were born to do this. The truck offers two modes of driving with a parental controlled mode and manual mode to make sure that they are always safe, no matter where they want to go.
Read moreDesign
The body has been constructed from a non-toxic plastic and has a working seat belt, gear shifter, doors that magnetically close and LED lights. There are three speed options; low, medium, and high plus it even has a built-in radio.
Capacity
The weight capacity is 65 pounds and has a rechargeable battery that is included. Get ready to have some fun in the park or back yard with this one.
Entertainment Value
This ride on car can be operated either by the driver in the car by pressing the pedal or by remote control. It is great for both experienced riders and new to the electric car game. It offers a spring suspension, great traction with 14-inch wheels, and fun features on the exterior that make it look just like the real thing. The radio can play tunes from the local stations or plug in their own playlist with the AUX cable.
7. Green Dune Racer
Two person electric ride on Dune vehicle
Features traction system with superpowers
Includes two speeds in forward mode and one in reverse
Chrome line cockpit with metal sidebars for added support
Power braking system for smooth stopping
No indication for battery level, no way to tell when running low
A lot of assembly required
Kids love getting into the driver’s seat and just going. This electric ride on is a great way to provide your little one with a fun way to get out and about but still remains safe. The Dune Racer is designed to be used outdoors and features a monster tractor system that gets them going on many different types of surfaces. Where many electric ride ons for little ones will not go on wet grass this Dune Racer will take it head on and even uneven terrain will do stop it.
Read moreDesign
The design of the Dune Racer features a steel frame that is super sturdy and very durable. It will take your kids places that other ride on will not even go. It also has some super flashy chrome work around the open cockpit area that is right on point. Designed to give the riders two speeds in forward drive and then one in reverse they will have full control of their adventures.
Capacity
The Dune Racer can accommodate up to two riders at one time. The rider’s cockpit is designed to comfortably seat two riders in the roomy area. From behind the wheel or letting them ride with their bestie the kids will have a blast taking on some wild or not so wild adventure with this easy to steer and smooth stopping ride.
Entertainment Value
Empower those little ones with the confidence that they need to take on their next adventure with this electric car. From riding on wet grass to taking on rough terrain this Dune Racer is one of the most versatile designs on the market. Because of the traction system that takes on terrain like a monster the kids will have some epic adventures in this ride on like no other.
8. Thomas & Friends Thomas Train with Track
Stops and goes easy with push button device
Train runs off and on the track
Toy runs on and includes a 6 volt battery
Perfect for toddlers
Has comfortable rests for feet
Some parents were missing the chargers upon receiving item
A few complained about wheels not turning correctly
Does your little one love Thomas the Train and friends? Then this is just the right electric car for them. It is a ride on Thomas with a real track that the kids ride right on. The train even features sounds and phrases right from the series. Steering and controlling the little train is toddler friendly and will allow them to control the starting and stopping with one push button. They will have so much fun that the kids will hop aboard every chance that they can get.
Read moreDesign
The track is 18 feet long that runs in a continuous circle for endless hours of riding fun. It is easy to put together and take apart for moving and storing. Operation of the vehicle is by a push button which kids learn how to use quickly. They can stop and go easily by manipulating this device.
Capacity
The train can go up to one mile per hour on the track and up to two miles per hour off of the track. Once toddlers learn the skills of steering their train, then they can ride off of the track and go almost anywhere they want.
Entertainment Value
Kids as young as one year old can learn how to ride Thomas safely as they build their motor skills and balance talents on the track. The ride uses a six volt battery that is included, but for the sounds a AA battery is needed. Sounds and verbal phrases come from the little yellow whistle when it is pressed. For hours of indoor driving play, Thomas the Train will entertain your toddler happily.
9. RC Battery Power with Radio & MP3
Includes horn, headlights, seat belt, MP3 connection, FM radio, steering controls
Operated by child or adult using remote control
Built with durable, long-lasting plastic materials
Comes with a rechargeable battery and a charger
Vehicle can travel up to 2 mph
Some say the battery will not hold a charge for long
A few state that the car came with some missing pieces
The kids will be buckling up and feeling the breeze in their hair when they jump in and get going in this car. It features the two modes of control with the manual and parental modes. The parental mode gives the parents full control and even steering the car for the little ones from up to 25 feet away. One of the coolest features that this car also has an AUX input. So as they are getting their cruise on they can also get their tunes on.
Read moreDesign
It is made of durable plastic materials that can take the rough treatment from kids and keep on going. A wonderful safety mechanism that it does have besides the seat belt is that if kids are too young to handle the driving themselves, adults can control the car by remote.
Capacity
The vehicle travels up to two miles per hour so kids can enjoy some speed, but not get into any trouble or spills. This is one great race car for boys or girls that are ready to ride!
Entertainment Value
The operating features of the car are a horn, headlights, a seat belt, MP3 connection, FM radio, and steering controls. Kids can go forward or reverse, unlike some of the other models of cars that only move forwards for safety reasons.
10. Power Wheels Nickelodeon PAW Patrol
Quad featuring cool Paw Patrol graphics
Designed to be toddler friendly
Maximum speed of 2 miles per hour
Easy push button, stop and go
Features footrests for a comfortable and safe ride
Wheels are smooth and do not offer a lot of traction
Charger does not feature an indicator light
Let your little one get their rescue adventure on with this ATV with a Paw Patrol theme. They will feel like they are a part of the team with this ATV that has been designed just for them. The four wheels keep is stable and easy to ride plus the graphics and colors are super cool. It even has some secret storage that the kids will love placing their favorite toys to take along.
Read moreDesign
On the handle bars, there is a stop and go button. This button makes it easy to go and stop when they need to. Built in to the body of the quad are footrests. This gives them a safe and comfortable ride every time. Let them control action and watch them imagine their next great adventure on this ride on the quad. There is even a storage compartment that allows them to stow away their adventure gear.
Capacity
With only forward motion being the only gear it is easy to drive and goes up to 2 miles per hour.
Entertainment Value
It features all the cool character graphics from the show. This Lil Quad will take them on all the action packed adventures and keep them looking cool while they do it.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
When looking at the overall design of each car there were a couple of additional factors we took into account. >We had to consider the developmental appropriateness of the electric vehicle especially when taken in the light of the recommended age. We wanted to add only cars that would stimulate your child’s development while they were riding them. For example, cars that allow your child to drive independently will increase their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.We also had to look at safety and stability issues especially the battery charging mechanisms. Furthermore, cars that had seatbelts and/or double locking doors made our list because they ensured that your child would remain in the vehicle. Cars that are designed with a spring suspension system on the wheels will reduce the risk of injury as they provide a smooth ride. Cars that are available in a variety of different colors were added to the list because they appeal to children of all ages and genders.
Capacity
When looking at the capacity of each ride on vehicle we looked at the weight limit as well as the various speeds. We wanted to include a variety of options for families with multiple children as well as options for families with one child. Paying attention to the levels of speed was important because it plays into your child's safety. In fact, we made sure to include several vehicle with parental features that allow you to control the speed at which your child drives. While the weight and speed capacity varies from vehicle to vehicle we made sure they were all appropriate for the target age range.
Entertainment Value
Another factor we took into account is the authenticity of the product, as we feel the more authentic the car is the higher the entertainment value for the child. We want to remain culturally relevant, whether it is using a keyed-ignition for the design or a push-button starter, a manual or automatic stick shift. Whatever a child witnesses in their everyday life with Mom and Dad, or other adults on TV, we wanted it to reflect in our products — the look and the feel! Who wouldn’t want the authentic chrome-look of wheels on a Ford F-150 truck? Not just the look and the feel, we want the same quality and design of durability expected of a trusted auto manufacturer. This includes the sturdy steel-frame structure of the Dune Buggy; the all-terrain tires of the John Deere model tractor; the familiar engine roar and MP3 tunes to accompany the sporty ride that's always turning heads in that direction!
Design Capacity Entertainment Value
Motorized vehicles for kids, when used with friends, helps greatly improve social development. They learn the value of taking turns and of sharing their vehicles with other children. When friends ride along as passengers, they learn that it is a lot more enjoyable to drive and ride in the company of friends than doing it alone. This helps foster friendships and more mutually beneficial relationships.
As with any electrical and mechanical toy, it is important that you are responsible and monitor your children's movements when playing with motorized vehicles. Make sure you buy reputable brands, like the products featured in this list, and always stay in a safe residential area away from busy roads and cars.
Other Factors to Consider
Physical Development
Electric cars are great examples of ride-on toys that are otherwise similar to pedal-powered vehicles, except for the fact that these run on battery power. Nevertheless, these playthings are excellent for helping kids develop their psychomotor skills particularly in terms of their visual-motor coordination, balance, and proprioception. Flicking on switches also help enhance dexterity and master their control of fine motor movements. More importantly, however, is these playthings’ ability to encourage role-playing and pretend play among children.
This can have a significant impact on their cognitive development especially in terms of problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and understanding of cause and effect relationships. These can lay the foundation for more complex thinking and reasoning skills such as critical thinking, creative thinking, counterfactual reasoning, and divergent thinking. For example, when given a particular terrain to navigate through, their brains are processing a lot of information to help them decide which path to take or whether to run over the obstacle or not. They are also processing the possible consequences of every action that they decide to take. Thus, these kids ride-on cars help children develop their ability to predict based on their understanding of cause and effect relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How do we gauge the authenticity of the product design?
In some ways, the specs speak for themselves. Savvy parents can see thorough research and dialogue our company made with car manufacturers to mirror the authentic driving experience to meet their child’s needs.
q: Is the maximum weight restriction/capacity enough?
q: What is the point of equipping these cars with “real life” radio or engine sounds?
It is proven that our auditory functions and familiar with the world begin in-utero. From an incredibly early age, we begin to make sense of our environment through auditory senses. This helps to reinforce socio-cognitive function, as well as begin the early development of hand-eye coordination - it truly is a skill to rock-out to a tune while steering a vehicle!
q: Why a maximum speed of only 7 mph?
This is the speed that a parent would probably feel most comfortable without endangering their child. Anything higher, would not be recommended for toddlers or preschoolers.
q: What can I do to get additional battery-life?
We understand that your child can be like the Energizer Bunny when it comes to playing! We recommend limiting use of the battery car in order to conserve the life of the battery. Then, to recharge the battery after nearly every use before it runs out. It’s just like filling up your gas tank every time before it runs on “E”.
q: What is the possible resale value once my child outgrows this toy?
While this is a valid question, there is no easy answer! What can be said, is that these are definitely “legacy-pieces”, whose value will only increase with time.
Sources
- , 10 Benefits Of Ride-On Toys For Your Child, Informative Article
- , Are Electric Ride On Cars Safe? Five Questions for Parents, Blog Article
- , How playing with toy cars can fuel your child’s development and imagination, Informative Article
