Parents Love These 6 Electric Kids Ride On Cars

Toy cars were a blast when we were kids, but nothing compares to the excitement of seeing remote control ride-on cars for the first time. The thrill of hopping into one and actually driving it, just like grown-ups, felt like a dream come true. It’s no wonder these toys continue to capture the imagination of kids today.

We’ve previously covered exciting options for older kids, such as RC cars and introductory-level toys like beginner RC helicopters, but for younger children between the ages of 3 to 8, ride-on cars offer a perfect blend of fun and learning. These toys are designed to engage kids while also promoting motor skills and coordination. The big question for parents is: what makes ride-on cars the ideal remote control toy for this age group?

We’ve put together a selection of our top picks for the best ride-on cars available today to help you make the perfect choice. But first, let’s explore what makes these toys so fascinating and beneficial for kids, with insights from Safe Kids Worldwide to ensure safe playtime.

Your Guide to Buying Your First Electric Ride On Car

As the name suggests, this is a toy car that a child can get into and ride. They do not have complete control of the car though; the remote control means a parent or guardian with them can control the vehicle remotely. That allows for both fun for the child, and safety by still having the controller of the remote in charge of the car’s movements.

Ride-on cars provide a safe and engaging playtime experience for children, promoting their physical, cognitive, and emotional development. These battery-powered cars are designed with safety features such as seat belts, parental remote controls, and speed limitations, ensuring children remain secure while exploring their surroundings.

By offering a controlled environment for kids to practice steering, braking, and navigating, ride-on cars help to build essential motor skills and spatial awareness, preparing them for future real-life driving situations. You can see below that the most popular ride on cars have tons of safety features and are perfect for ages 3-8.

Car Model	Key Safety Features	Age Range
Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler	Seatbelt, parental remote control, 2.5 & 5 mph speed lock	3-7 years
Best Choice Products 12V Ride On Car Truck	Seatbelt, parental remote control, 3-speed settings	3-8 years
Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force Tractor	High-traction wheels, adjustable seat, 2-speed settings with reverse	3-7 years
Costzon Ride on Car	Seatbelt, parental remote control, 3-speed settings, double door lock	3-6 years
Rollplay 6V Mini Cooper	Seatbelt, parental remote control, 2.5 mph speed limitation	3-5 years

Why Ride On Cars Are Popular with Parents and Kids

Remote Control Ride-on Cars for Kids are as fun for the kids as they are popular as purchases by parents and guardians, and here are a few reasons why.

• Remote control ride-on cars are a great learning source because they engage children directly. While riding, the sensory input helps them develop coordination, motor skills and balance.
• Ride-on cars are a good way for kids to engage their imagination. Whether they’re playing out their first race, or acting out a trip to the playground with friends, this kind of play nurtures creativity.
• There is plenty of entertainment and social value in RC ride-on cars. Kids can get plenty of hours of fun playing outside with their friends.

Depending on the preferences of the child, you must consider the design of the remote control ride-on car before you buy.

They can range from cute and fun designs to more realistic-looking toys that are made to resemble existing adult car models. 

Safety Considerations for Ride-On Cars

Before purchasing a ride-on car, it’s crucial to consider the safety of your child during playtime.

1. Age-Appropriate Use Ensure that the ride-on car you’re considering is suitable for your child’s age and size. Many models, like those for children aged 3 to 8, are designed with specific weight limits and features. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under three should avoid powered ride-on toys, as they may lack the coordination and strength needed to operate them safely.

2. Supervision and Environment Always supervise your child while they are using their ride-on car. Ideally, ride-on cars should be used in safe, enclosed environments like backyards or driveways. Make sure the area is free of obstacles like stairs, pools, or sharp objects. It’s best to avoid busy streets or public areas where other vehicles could pose a risk.

3. Helmets and Protective Gear Even though ride-on cars generally move at low speeds, wearing protective gear is a must. The National Safety Council recommends children wear helmets while using any type of motorized toy. You can also consider knee and elbow pads to offer extra protection during outdoor play.

4. Battery Safety For electric ride-on cars, always monitor the charging process and ensure you’re using the recommended charger. Overcharging can damage the battery and pose safety hazards.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure your child has a fun and secure experience with their ride-on car.

How We Decided on the Top 6 Models to Recommend for Your Family

As an expert in children’s consumer products, I recommend that parents consider several key factors when selecting the ideal ride-on car for their little one. Begin by evaluating the age and developmental stage of your child, ensuring that the chosen car is appropriate for their current abilities and interests.

Assess the car’s safety features, such as seat belts, parental remote controls, and speed limitations. Furthermore, it’s crucial to consider the product’s durability and quality, taking into account the materials and craftsmanship involved.

Factor	Why It’s Important
Age & Development	Ensures the car is suitable for the child’s abilities and interests
Safety Features	Protects the child while they ride and helps to build their confidence
Durability	Ensures the car withstands regular use and lasts for an extended period of time
Price	Helps find a car that fits within your budget without compromising on quality and features
Customer Reviews	Provides insight into other parents’ experiences and highlights any potential issues
Overall Rating	Offers a quick reference for overall satisfaction, quality, and safety of the product

Finally, compare prices, customer reviews, and overall ratings to make an informed decision that balances value and quality. By considering these aspects, you can be confident that you are providing your child with an enjoyable and safe ride-on car experience.

Here are the 6 kids ride on cars that our experts love. We would wholeheartedly recommend any of these for your next purchase!

1. Best Choice Kids 12V Ride On Truck

Standard Specifications

• Price: $279.99
• Size: Length, width and height of 46″ x 29.5″ x 31″
• Weight: 65 lbs
• Material: Plastic
• Recommended Age: 3-8 years old

What Customers Think

Average Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 out of 5 stars) based on nearly 16,000+ reviews as of 2024.

• Quality: The product is sturdy and well-built. It has a weight limit as specified and can comfortably accommodate a 40lb and a 21lb child without compromising the speed and power of the motor.
• Battery Life: The battery life is generally good, with some users reporting about 3 hours of casual ride on a flat grass surface after a 5-6 hour charge. However, some users have replaced the original battery with a larger one for extended run time.
• Performance: The vehicle performs well on flat surfaces and has a reasonable top speed. However, it may struggle with inclines or thick grass due to the larger wheels and the demand for more torque to turn over the motors.
• Assembly: The assembly process is straightforward if you follow the video on the Amazon listing. However, some users found it a bit challenging.
• Issues: Some users reported issues with the charging system, which may lead to premature battery failure. Others wished for rubber tires or rubber lining instead of plastic, speed control for self-driving, and a gradual stop feature.

Top Features

This battery-powered ride-on car is the first on our list, and we picked it because it’s a popular model based on over 15,000 ratings online. It is designed for children between the ages of 3 and 9. Made by the Best Choice company, you can trust the manufacturer cars about families and customer service.

• Its 12V rechargeable battery means that on average, it goes up to speeds as high as 6 mph. That’s reasonably safe for kids who don’t want slow cars, but also for parents who don’t want them to go too fast. 
• Three different speed settings give kids the versatility to role play various driving scenarios for maximum entertainment value.
• The parental remote allows parents and guardians to take full control of the vehicle, joining in on the fun and guiding the child as they play. 
• Realistic engine and horn sound buttons, LED lights and a working suspension system give kids a fully immersive experience that mimics real-life multi-terrain driving they see with their parents or guardians.
• Built-in Bluetooth speakers to connect any device, letting you add music to the car for the kids to enjoy.

Pros

• The parental remote has an emergency stop button that halts the car and only allows starting from the remote. It’s great for parents or guardians to stop kids from bumping into dangerous surfaces or riding into oncoming traffic.
• The vehicle is available in various colors to suit your child’s preferences, including black, blue, red, white, green, pink and even a camouflage pattern.
• Up to an hour of solid run time at full power charge.

Cons

• There isn’t any padding on the seats.
• The rear wheel is attached to the motor, so it’s not possible to freewheel it.
• Given that it is made of plastic, constant bumping into hard surfaces could mean that it could easily scratch or break.

2. DAKOTT Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Ride On Car

Standard Specifications

• Price: $360
• Size: Length, width and height of 46″ x 27.75″ x 19″
• Weight: 45.7lbs
• Material: Plastic and EVA
• Recommended Age: 3-6 years old

What Customers Think

Average Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.9 out of 5 stars) based on 20+ reviews.

• Size: Some customers have reported that the car is smaller than expected. It’s described as being suitable for children aged 3-6, but some reviewers have stated that it’s more appropriate for children aged 1-3. A few customers have mentioned that their 4 or 5-year-old children were too big for the car.
• Remote Control: The remote control feature is appreciated by some customers, especially for younger children. However, one customer reported that the remote control did not work at all, even with new batteries.
• Performance: There are mixed reviews regarding the performance of the car. Some customers have reported that the car works well and is enjoyable for their children. However, a few customers have reported that the car stopped working shortly after purchase.
• Return Policy: Some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the return policy, stating that they were not able to return the car despite it being too small for their children or not working properly.

Top Features

We added this ride-on car for its striking resemblance to a Chevy Camaro. Kids between the ages of 3 and 6 years old can enjoy all of the following features that this toy has to offer.

DAKOTT was started as a gadgets company, and has been in business since 1999. The fact that they have been in business for 20+ years was a big reason they came in at #2 on our overall list.

• Parental remote control  has a substantial range so you can control the child’s movements from tens of feet away.
• Its 12V rechargeable battery powers it enough to reach speeds of up to 5mph, which is a speed that is reasonably thrilling enough for kids and safe enough for their watchful guardians. Overall your child should get up to 1 hour of uninterrupted driving time.
• Safety features include safety belts, LED head and tail lights for visibility and a suspension system that helps maintain comfort and stability in shock absorption when driven over less moderately rough terrain.
• Bluetooth, MP3 player and radio functions are available for maximum entertainment value, allowing the child to listen to they favorite music while driving.
• The car has mid 4WD wheels with metal bearings that reduce friction, allowing for seamless driving for your child. The wheels are made of EVA, a lightweight material which is soft and flexible, just like rubber.

Pros

• The rubber-like wheels, metal bearings and shock-absorbing assembly make the ride much smoother over rougher terrain.
• The car resembles a real-life Chevrolet Camaro, which is great if your child has always wanted a car just like the grown-ups have!
• It comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, red, black and blue and white.

Cons

• Given the dimensions of the vehicle, it may be far more suited to children who are smaller in size. Remember to check against your child’s size and weight before you order.
• The plastic chassis will break or scratch easily when the car bumps into too many hard surfaces, teach the kids to be cautious when driving.

3. First Drive Lambo Concept Kids Ride On Car

Standard Specifications

• Price: $199.99
• Size: Length, width and height of 47″ x 27.5″ x 18.8″
• Weight: 66lbs
• Material: Plastic
• Recommended Age: 3-5 years old

What Customers Think

Average Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3 out of 5 stars) based on 230+ reviews as of 2024

• Size: Some customers have reported that the car is smaller than expected. It may not be suitable for older or larger children, with one customer mentioning that their 5-year-old grandson looked like a clown on a small bike while riding it.
• Assembly and Parts: Some customers have reported issues with missing or non-functioning parts. One customer mentioned that the rim part wouldn’t stay on the tire, and another reported that the remote control didn’t work.
• Battery Life: There are mixed reviews regarding the battery life. One customer reported that the battery went out after the fourth ride, while another mentioned that the battery didn’t last long after being used for about 30 minutes.
• Customer Service: Some customers have praised the customer service, mentioning that they received fast responses and replacements for faulty products. However, one customer mentioned that they were still waiting for a response from the company after two months.

Top Features

This addition was for the kids and parents who have always wanted a Lamborghini model car. We chose it because of its unique entertainment features that we believe kids between the ages of 3 and 5 will enjoy.

Unlike the first 2 brands on our list, the First Drive company only makes ride on cars. It’s their sole focus, so you know they are experts!

• Its extensive entertainment center includes 
• Bluetooth speakers, a USB port, a card port and an auxiliary port, so your child has multiple ways to listen to their music. 
• An educational feature that teaches introduction basics in different languages!
• The horse button is a one-of-a-kind feature that you press for the car to rock softly like a horse. 
• Its 12V rechargeable battery supports 2 motors which make it powerful enough to comfortably drive over dirt, grass and paved surfaces at a maximum speed of between 3-5mph for 1 to 2 hours of playtime at full charge.
• 3 different speeds offer a variety of roleplaying options for the imaginative child to immerse themselves in their driving playtime.
• Bright and soft LED lighting offers a more immersive driving experience in the dark and during the day.
• The 2.4 GHz parental remote control allows a guardian to control the car movements from a significant distance. It comes with a remote STOP function, reverse, soft start, gradual acceleration and brake function all completely accessible on the remote.
• Safety features include the parental remote control functions, adjustable seatbelts, and wear-resistant anti-skid wheels for safe navigation even on slippery surfaces.

Pros

• For the price, it offers a wide variety of entertainment features, for maximum playtime value.
• Its heavy weight is a safety feature that grants more stability to the vehicle.
• Available in white, red, blue, orange and yellow colors.

Cons

• It takes about 15 minutes to remove the battery if you need to swap it out or are having issues with it.
• The smaller model may not be comfortable for 3-5-year-old kids who are bigger or taller.

4. Tobbi Kids Ride On Toy Fire Fighter or Police Car

Standard Specifications

• Price: $200-250
• Size: Length, width and height of 43.3 x26.8 x 20.5 
• Weight: 35.3lbs
• Material: Plastic and Iron
• Recommended Age: 3-6 years old

What Customers Think

Average Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.1 out of 5 stars) based on 1,700+ reviews.

• Features: Customers have praised the car’s features, including the sirens, lights, radio with intercom, and remote control. The car’s ability to connect to Bluetooth was also mentioned positively.
• Size: Some customers have mentioned that the car is smaller than expected. It may be more suitable for younger children.
• Speed: The speed of the car has been a point of discussion among customers. Some have mentioned that the car’s speed is a bit slow, even in the highest speed mode.
• Battery Life: The battery life of the car has received mixed reviews. Some customers have mentioned that the battery life is excellent, while others have reported that it could be improved.

Top Features

We picked this ride-on car for the kids that would like to roleplay police officers. Children between the ages of 3 and 6 years old can enjoy the police chase games they see on TV with their friends for a full 1 hour of cooperative play.

Just like we focus only on remote control toys for kids and adults alike, the Tobbi company loves ride on toys too. You can trust you are buying from an expert in electronic toys with deep experience.

• Its immersive sound system comes with a police siren button and a working intercom so they can enjoy police role play. It also has a horn and a music system with an auxiliary cord and USB port. 
• The 2.4 GHz parental remote lets guardians control the car remotely, guiding the child during playtime or taking over before any driving gets too dangerous.
• With a carrying capacity of a little over 60 lbs, the car is wide enough that two children can ride together. It’s great for cooperative play!
• Safety features include a slow start function, LED tail and headlights for easy visibility, the parental remote control, seat belts and wear-resistant shock-absorbing wheels for stability on various kinds of terrain.

Pros

• The car is designed to offer the most immersive cops and robbers experience for kids.
• Comes in multiple colors for the police car or you can opt for the fire engine model.

Cons

• It’s only capable of going up to speeds of about 3 miles and hour.
• The seats are thin and can get scratched or damaged easily with heavy use over time.

5. Americas Toys Mercedes Benz Kids Ride On Car

Standard specifications

• Price: $300-400
• Size: Length, width and height of 47.2 x 28.2 x 19.5
• Weight: 41lbs
• Material: Painted plastic
• Recommended Age: 3-6 years old

What Customers Think

Average Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.1 out of 5 stars) based on 230+ reviews.

• Size: Some customers have mentioned that the car is smaller than expected. It may be more suitable for younger children.
• Quality: There are mixed reviews regarding the quality of the car. Some customers have mentioned that the car is made of cheap plastic and the wheels slip constantly. There were also reports of missing parts and damage upon delivery.
• Battery Life: Some customers have reported issues with the battery life, stating that it does not charge properly.
• Customer Service: There are mixed reviews regarding the customer service. Some customers have had difficulty contacting the seller or receiving a refund.

Top Features

Our final entry is for the kids that enjoy the flashing colorful lights on their rides. Children between the ages of 3 to 6 get to enjoy an incredible 2 hours of playtime with a fully charged 12V battery.

Made by the Americas Toys company, the website claims that the manufacturer is run by three young parents who wanted a better way to provide safe and affordable toys for their children.

• Security features include a parental remote control with a range of nearly 65 feet, a pull handle with mini wheels to move the vehicle when the battery runs out, and safety belts.
• Its interactive entertainment system includes an mp4 multimedia player so your child can listen to and watch their favorite songs and cartoons while relaxing in their car.
• The 12V rechargeable battery allows for hours of play while enjoying all the fun features that the toy vehicle has to offer.
• The unique lighting on this toy car includes realistic LED head and tail lights. It also includes colorful LED lights on the wheels, for kids to enjoy even when driving in the dark.

Pros

• The unique mp4 feature can be loaded with time-passing or educational content that your child can watch. 
• It’s got leather seats with cushioning for extra seating comfort.
• Easy to assemble for beginners or experienced parents
• Simple parental remote control with basic and advanced

Cons

• It’s a bit too small for larger and taller kids.
• Plastic materials are prone to breakage.

6. Best Choice Products 2-Seater Licensed Land Rover Ride On Car

Standard Specifications

• Price: $300-500
• Size: 51.25″ (L) x 34″ (W) x 26″ (H)
• Weight Capacity: 128 Pounds
• Material: High-Quality Plastic and Metal
• Recommended Age: 3-8 years old

What Customers Think

Average Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.3 with over 5,500 ratings as of 2024

• Durability: Praised for its sturdy build, capable of handling enthusiastic play.
• Design: The licensed Land Rover design gives it an authentic and stylish look.
• Safety: Equipped with seat belts and a parental remote control for added safety.
• Performance: Powerful performance with a smooth ride, suitable for various terrains.

Top Features

This Best Choice Products 2-Seater Licensed Land Rover Ride On Car combines luxury and fun, making it an excellent choice for kids who love adventure.

• 2-Seater Design: Perfect for siblings or friends to ride together, enhancing social play.
• Parental Remote Control: Allows parents to ensure safety by controlling the car remotely.
• Powerful Battery: Ensures long-lasting playtime and is easily rechargeable.
• Realistic Features: Includes an MP3 player, LED lights, and a horn for an immersive experience.
• Adjustable Speeds: Offers multiple speed settings to cater to different age groups and driving skills.

Pros

• Spacious: Comfortably fits two children, with plenty of room to grow.
• Interactive Elements: The various interactive features keep children engaged and entertained.
• Authentic Design: The licensed design makes it an attractive and coveted toy for kids.

Cons

• Higher Price Point: May be more expensive due to its licensed design and additional features.
• Assembly Required: Some assembly is needed, which might require time and effort.

Our Overall #1 Choice

These are some of the best ride-on cars for kids that we found on the market. All of them have the potential to deliver lots of supervised fun for your young one. If we had to pick one, however, we would recommend the First Drive Lambo Concept.

For the price alone, it offers a much wider variety of entertainment features, including educational content, and the horse rocking feature. It has all the same safety features as all the other entries on this list, and is simply more value for money. Your little one will make many lasting memories with this one!

Making the Right Choice for Endless Fun and Learning

Selecting the perfect ride-on car for your child is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment in their joy, development, and learning. Each of these top 6 models brings its unique blend of fun, safety, and educational value, making them all excellent choices for your little one’s next big adventure.

Like any other RC toy for your kid, the best ride-on car for your child depends on their age, interests, and your family’s specific needs. Whether it’s the thrill of a Lamborghini, the rugged charm of a Jeep, or the sleek elegance of a Mercedes, there’s a ride-on car that’s just right for your child.