So you’re considering buying a ride on car for your child. Congratulations! Ride on Cars are one of the most popular toys on the market today and if you choose the right ride on car you will give your child hours of safe, endless fun and encourage a healthier lifestyle as they will be spending many hours in the fresh air! At the same time, you will also help them to improve their motor skills. Before purchasing a ride on car for your child you need to know the main differences. This article will help you make the right decision.

There are many different ride on cars on the market today but the fundamental difference between them is that some are pedal powered and some are battery powered.

Pedal Cars: Pedal cars come in 2 options push pedal and rotary pedal. Push pedal use a stirrup style pedal where the child alternately pushes each pedal. Rotary pedal cars are similar to a bicycle and usually use a chain. If you decide to choose a chain driven pedal ride on car always ensure the chain is covered inside the car so the child cannot get caught up in it or get grease on his clothes.

Also there is no foot plate, this allows the child to push the pedal car along with their feet if they prefer. This is of course ideal for smaller children that may not be able to reach the pedals yet or have the ability to pedal their ride on car.

Pedal Cars are a great way of encouraging your child to get lots of fresh air and plenty of exercise. There are no batteries to recharge and they tend to be cheaper than battery ride on cars. Pedal cars are good to ride on flat surfaces and tarmac.

Battery Powered Cars: Battery powered cars are faster than their pedal car counterparts. 6 volt ride on cars travel at speeds of approximately 3mph/5kh (about an adult’s walking pace); 12 volt ride on cars can travel at speeds up to 5mph/8kh (about an adult’s jogging pace). The battery usually lasts for approximately 1 and a half to 2 hours before it needs recharging.

6 volt ride on cars run well on hard flat surfaces but are capable of running on grass, although the speed would be affected dependent on the length of the grass and if there are any slopes to contend with.

12 volt ride on cars tend to be more suitable for older children, having the extra power needed for a heavier child. They can run on most surfaces including grass and gravel (if the vehicle is to be run mainly on grass a 12 volt is probably the best option).

Many battery powered ride on cars have progressive acceleration which means the more the child puts their foot down the faster it will go (up to the maximum 5mph/8kh). This makes for a more realistic experience for the child. Also once the child removes their foot from the accelerator the car will stop.

Other things to consider: When buying kids ride on cars it is better to pick one that is either fully assembled or requires almost no assembly. Some lesser-quality cars have to be assembled when they arrive and the instructions are not always easy to understand!

Whether you buy a pedal powered or battery powered ride on car, one thing you want to be sure of is that these ride on cars are safe and built to high standards. For cars produced in Europe they should display the CE mark. You will then be safe in the knowledge that the ride on car you buy for your child has passed all the safety standards required and will be sturdily made and capable of withstanding the rough and tumble these cars may receive.

If you follow the above advice you are sure to find a ride on car that is suitable for your child, ensuring they will have years of fun!