When you shop through links on our site, we may receive compensation. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.

15 Best Electric Cars & Power Wheels for Kids of 2024

Updated
Searching for your kiddo's first set of wheels? We've got you covered.

Do you have a child with the need for speed? Electric cars are fun for kids, but they don’t come without hazards.

When choosing a motorized vehicle for your child, you want to ensure you get your money’s worth, as many of these vehicles come with a hefty price tag.

So we’ve spent hours researching, comparing, and listening to what other parents have to say about the best electric cars for kids. We’ve come up with this list of the top options and rated them based on their safety features, durability, quality, and fun accessories.

Read our recommendations to find the best electric vehicle for your money, and offer your child countless hours of front-yard or off-road fun.

Our Top Picks

We independently research, assess and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Mercedes Benz Car
Best Luxury Car
Mercedes Benz Car
  • Realistic, luxurious detailing
  • Ample battery life
  • Remotely controlled by parents
Product Image of the Peg Perego Tractor
Best Tractor
Peg Perego Tractor
  • Sturdy & durable
  • For off-road use
  • Offers safety features
Product Image of the Pink Hummer Ride-on
Best for Girls
Pink Hummer Ride-on
  • Forward and reverse gears
  • Faster than most
  • Realistic looks and sound effects
Product Image of the Huffy Electric Mini Quad
Best Easy to Use
Huffy Electric Mini Quad
  • 30 minutes ride time
  • Included trailer and building blocks
  • 1.5 miles per hour
Product Image of the Kid Trax Electric Quad Bike
Best Bike
Kid Trax Electric Quad Bike
  • Push button acceleration
  • All-terrain tires
  • Multiple Disney-themed designs
Product Image of the Tobbi Mercedes Benz
Best for Toddlers
Tobbi Mercedes Benz
  • Sporty design
  • A breeze to set up
  • ASTM certified
Product Image of the Uenjoy Electric Car
Best Remote Controlled
Uenjoy Electric Car
  • Realistic cop car feel
  • Spacious seats
  • Convenient pull-handle
Product Image of the Kid Motorz Xtreme Quad
Best Speed Control
Kid Motorz Xtreme Quad
  • Safe speed limit of 1.5 MPH
  • Realistic design
  • Strong, sturdy, supportive wheels
Product Image of the Best Choice Powered Off-Road
Best Off-Road Truck
Best Choice Powered Off-Road
  • Works well on most terrains
  • Realistic sound effects
  • Equipped with a seat belt
Product Image of the Kidzone Ride-On
Best Budget Pick
Kidzone Ride-On
  • Affordable
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Manual and remote control


The Best Kids Electric Cars & Power Wheels of 2024

Here are 15 worthwhile electric cars to consider.

Mercedes Benz Car for Kids

Best Luxury Electric Car for Kids

This single-rider luxury model is great for one child ages 3–6 years. It reaches a maximum of 1.86 miles per hour and is suitable for children up to 44 pounds. This model includes excellent safety features, like a seat belt and parental remote control.

The realistic exterior and design include LED headlights, music, and a horn. The interior boasts a stroller seat belt. Two speeds and a forward and reverse switch are also found in this luxury model electric car.

Gradual acceleration, an electric brake system, and rubber traction help create a smooth ride. Opening doors add to the experience. An intelligent charging battery system helps prevent overcharging.

A full charge requires 8–12 hours of charging time and provides about 1 hour of continuous running time.

Pros

  • Easy assembly takes about half an hour.
  • Realistic, luxurious detailing.
  • Ample battery life.
  • MP3 player built-in.
  • Parents can control it remotely.

Cons

  • The body of this car is easily scratched.
  • The battery life is not as good as other models.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
3.5 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Experience

This car boasts many fantastic features, such as MP3 and USB plugs, Bluetooth pairing, and flashing lights synced to the music. However, it is smaller than expected, and the lack of doors means children have to climb in and out. While the assembly process was relatively straightforward, the instructions could be clearer. On the downside, some customers experienced battery issues and found the overall quality of the plastic to be lacking. Despite these drawbacks, young kids, especially those between 1-2 years old, seem to adore this car and enjoy riding in it daily.


Peg Perego John Deere XUV

Best Electric Tractor for Kids

Sometimes you need a toy that’s more than just a toy. If you’re looking for a ride-on vehicle that makes your child feel like the little helper they really are, you may want to consider this tractor model.

With two speeds to choose from, this tractor can travel at 2.5 or 5 miles per hour. You can also choose to lock out the greater acceleration for younger children or beginners.

The large wheels help provide fantastic traction, even on grass and uneven terrain. The seat is highly adjustable. This model provides plenty of space for a growing child and can support up to 65 pounds.

This model’s battery offers plenty of power. Hauling leaves and moving yard equipment has never been easier with your helper and this little tractor at your disposal.

This product is suitable for children aged 3 to 8 years old and has a two-year warranty.

Pros

  • A sturdy and durable ride-on that’s great for off-road use.
  • It offers safety features for young riders but still appeals to older children.

Cons

  • Does not include a seat belt.

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Battery Life
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Insight

Great ride-on toy for my kids, but there's room for improvement. This John Deere 2-seater ride-on car is perfect for my two tall children, as it's the widest option we could find. They absolutely love the bed in the back for hauling stuff around, and the battery life has been impressive so far. However, charging the battery can be a bit of a hassle and it would benefit from being 4x4 with off-roading wheels, as it can get stuck on grass at times. We also wish it had features like a radio and better traction on asphalt. Despite these drawbacks, it's still a fun and enjoyable toy for my little ones to ride around in.


Kid Motorz Hummer H2 Ride-On

Best Electric Car for Girls

This bright pink Hummer is perfect for your adventurous yet glamorous little girl. Now, she can ride around the yard or your neighborhood in her single-rider car. As the car is equipped with two seats, she can share the ride with a friend.

This car has forward and reverse gears, so your child can learn to navigate the car themselves. But it still ensures safety, with a 5-mile-per-hour limit, so they can have a risk-free but fun drive.

The car comes with realistic sound effects on the steering wheel. It has stylish decals and accents. This electric Hummer is as close as you’ll get to the real thing!

The rechargeable battery gives your child up to an hour of drive time per charge. Suitable for kids 3 years old and older, weighing up to 130 pounds, this is an excellent gift for your little one that could bring them years of fun.

Pros

  • Forward and reverse gears.
  • Safety limit of 5 miles per hour.
  • Realistic looks and sound effects.
  • Up to an hour of drive time per charge.

Cons

  • Comes with a single-color option.

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Battery Life
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Review

When I first got this Hummer for my 3-year-old, the excitement was undeniable. The vibrant yellow color and roomy interior made it a hit, accommodating two kids comfortably and navigating easily on grass and concrete surfaces. However, I found the assembly process and sticker application to be tedious, and the Velcro seatbelts tend to stick to my children's clothing, causing some frustration. Despite these minor flaws, the battery life is decent, lasting around 50 minutes, making it a fun and well-loved toy for my kids.


Huffy Electric Ride-On Car for Kids

Best Easy to Use Electric Car

This mini quad will make your little one feel like they’re out doing a day’s work. It’s the perfect electric car for kids to build confidence, have fun, and use their imagination. It has a super cool trailer that attaches to the back of the quad. Your kids can put their toys or the included building blocks in it to take them along as they ride.

The building blocks are a bonus that adds extra fun and excitement when your little one stops their ride. They can learn how to build or organize the blocks as they go.

This fun ride-on toy is designed for children between 1.5 and 3 years old. It has a maximum speed of 1.5 miles per hour, so it’s safe enough for the littlest drivers. It’s easy for kids to control with the switch on the left handlebar to turn it on. The button on the right handlebar starts the acceleration. The large, easy-to-grip handlebars make turning easy.

With 30 minutes of run time between charges, this is perfect as an afternoon activity!

Pros

  • Thirty minutes ride time.
  • Included trailer and building blocks.
  • 1.5 miles per hour.
  • Easy to use.

Cons

  • The footrests are too small for some children’s feet.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
3 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Individual Opinion

My experience with this electric ride-on toy has been a mixed bag. On one hand, my niece absolutely loves it and it provides endless entertainment for her. However, the materials used to construct the toy are disappointingly cheap, with the plastic feeling more suitable for a candy container than a ride-on. The steering is the biggest issue, as it has a poor turning radius and the design of the steering column housing easily bends. While I managed to fix some of these problems, it's frustrating that such an expensive toy has so many design flaws.


Kid Trax Toddler Disney Electric Quad

Best Electric Bike for Kids

The Kid Trax electric quads are enough to make any child jump for joy. Your child’s favorite characters inspire seven awesome options. There’s a Disney princess bike, Spider-Man, Lightning McQueen, and many more.

This is the perfect bike for toddlers, as it doesn’t go too fast. It has one forward speed of 1.5 miles per hour. The driver must press the acceleration button with their hands; no foot pedal is required.

The bikes have rubber traction strip tires, making them suitable for all terrains. So whether you’re on the road, in the backyard, or going through the woods — this is the perfect mode of transposition.

The bike is intended for children aged 18 to 30 months and can handle up to 45 pounds. Just ensure there is only one rider at a time.

Pros

  • Inspired by popular animated characters.
  • Push-button acceleration.
  • All-terrain tires.
  • 1.5 maximum mileage per hour for ensured safety.

Cons

  • Loud motor.
  • Difficult to turn.

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Battery Life
3 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Love how this ride-on toy brings so much joy to my little one, especially since they're a huge Minnie Mouse fan. It was a breeze to assemble and the battery life is impressive, lasting at least a week with daily use. This sturdy and well-built toy is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a versatile playtime option. My child is still learning to use the thumb button to control the toy, but it's great to see them slowly gaining independence while riding around.


Tobbi Mercedes Benz Ride-On Electric Car

Best Electric Car for Toddlers

The sporty exterior of this child-sized Mercedes Benz is an excellent option for an older toddler. It can drive on hard surfaces and uneven terrains, like grass or gravel.

This car offers three speeds: low, normal, and high. We love that this car grows with your child. You can increase the speed capability as they grow and become more capable.

The exterior features appeal to both younger and older children. It can seat two and supports up to 88 pounds, which is also great for growing children.

Tobbi Mercedes Benz moves forward as well as backward.

This car is suitable for children 3 to 6 years of age and runs on a 12V battery.

Pros

  • Sporty and super cool.
  • It will last from toddlerhood through 6 years of age.
  • A breeze to set up.

Cons

  • The remote control isn’t always very responsive.

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Battery Life
4 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Experience

I've found this car to be a decent choice for young kids, with the ability to hold two small children if they aren't squabbling. It has enough power to drive on grass and climb slight inclines, while the included remote control offers an additional layer of guidance. However, the seat belts could use some improvement, and legroom might be an issue for kids aged 3 and up. Despite a few shortcomings, the LED lights, horn, and music capabilities add some extra fun to the experience.


Uenjoy Electric Car for Kids

Best Remote Controlled Kids Electric Car

This police-style car is attractive and fun for kids aged 3 to 6. You can choose between two speeds in manual mode or three in remote-controlled mode. The maximum speed of this vehicle is 5 miles per hour.

You can remotely control the car until your child is old enough to drive it alone. It’s loaded with safety features, perfect for a growing child.

It’s made with non-toxic plastic and is equipped with an adjustable seat belt. It also offers suspension. Your child will love the LED lights, audio system, and larger body style.

I like the longevity of this ride-on car. It’s safe enough for a young child, but it has the power and features an older child still wants. The 12V battery offers an hour of driving time and requires 4 to 6 hours of charging time.

Pros

  • Realistic cop car feel.
  • Spacious seats.
  • Convenient pull handle for when you need to move the car manually.

Cons

  • Wide turning radius.
  • Wheels are within reach when the child is driving, which could be a safety issue for younger children.

Our Ratings

Safety
3.5 / 5
Battery Life
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Insight

I'm extremely impressed with the realistic design and features of this ride-on car for my daughter. The battery life, however, was disappointing as it never seemed to charge properly, but the car still managed to last a while. It's easy to assemble, and the parental control remote is a huge plus for added safety. Despite the minor battery issue, this car has provided endless fun for my little one and is definitely worth the investment.


Kid Motorz Xtreme Quad

Best Speed Control

Not every parent wants their child zipping through the yard in a speedy electric car. If you’re looking for a safer and slower model, check out the Kid Motorz Xtreme Quad. It has a maximum speed of 1.5 miles per hour, so you can walk alongside your child as they ride around in their new toy!

Although it’s slow, your little one will still have a blast in this car. A foot pedal controls the movement, even though the speed remains the same. With these features, your child will feel very grown up in their Xtreme Quad.

The quad has super cool, realistic decals that replicate a motorcycle dashboard, which will keep your little one entertained for ages.

It’s easy to steer and operate. The sturdy structure provides support while your child maneuvers around the yard.

It has a 6-volt battery and a maximum weight capacity of 66 pounds. When the car arrives, it’s easy to assemble, so you can get it set up and in gear in no time!

Similar Articles
Young boy driving an ATV on a fieldBest ATV for Kids: Are They Worth the Investment?

Pros

  • Safe speed limit of 1.5 MPH.
  • Easy to steer.
  • Realistic design.
  • Strong, sturdy, and supportive wheels.

Cons

  • 50-60 minute battery life.
  • Doesn’t have a reverse mode.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
2.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Review

If you're looking for a fun, age-appropriate ride for your young child, this quad could be a great choice. It's easy for little ones to maneuver and they'll definitely enjoy it, but be aware that it runs quite slow and lacks a reverse function. Assembly can be a bit tedious, especially with the numerous decals, and it may struggle on rough terrain like grass or rocks. The battery life is impressive, but charging can be inconvenient, as you need to unscrew the seat to access it.


Best Choice Powered Off-Road Truck

Best Off-Road Truck

This off-road truck is great for kids aged 3 to 8. It offers a remote control and can also be driven manually by your child. This ride-on vehicle will support riders up to 65 pounds.

The truck is packed with great features. An incredibly roomy and comfortable seat, equipped with a seat belt, is perfect for a single rider. The mirrors are functional and movable, and both the doors and the horn work.

Dashboard lights, a high/low speed switch, extra storage, and a power indicator round out this product’s features.

A powerful 12V twin motor allows for great rear-wheel drive and increases performance even on uneven or wet terrain. A built-in MP3 port allows you to supply your soundtrack to your child’s backyard fun. Plan to charge this for 8–12 hours or overnight, and you can expect to have 1-2 hours of riding time per charge.

Pros

  • Works well on most terrains.
  • Realistic sound effects.
  • Equipped with a seat belt.

Cons

  • Short battery life.

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Battery Life
2.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Individual Opinion

Love this ride-on! My 3-year-old grandson absolutely enjoys riding around in it and the parental remote control is a fantastic feature for us to keep him safe. The assembly process was easy, and I appreciated the minimal use of styrofoam in the packaging. I did make some modifications to improve battery life and charging, but overall, this ride-on has exceeded our expectations and brought endless fun for our little one.


Kidzone Lamborghini Kids Electric Ride-On Car

Best Budget Pick

Finding a budget-friendly ride-on is entirely possible. This model has excellent features, and it won’t break the bank.

Bigger kids can use the easy-to-operate steering wheel and pedal to control the vehicle. Or you can use the remote control with three different speed options to help you create safe riding conditions for your child. The working radio, lights, and AUX jack add to the appeal.

This vehicle can seat one rider weighing up to 66 pounds. It runs on a 12V battery and is ASTM certified. Recommended for children ages 3 years old and up, this is a good option for a younger or more petite rider.

This model maxes out at 2.2 miles per hour. It also has a safety belt and a bench-style seat to suit your child.

Pros

  • Affordable price point.
  • Outstanding safety features for a younger child.

Cons

  • The remote control has a learning curve.
  • Smaller than expected.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
3 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

When I first purchased this orange Lamborghini for my young daughter, she was thrilled with the realistic design and fun features like Bluetooth speakers and functioning headlights. However, the battery life left us disappointed, as it would die after a short usage time. The car was easy to assemble and included a harness for added safety, but the non-adjustable seat made it difficult for my child to reach the pedal comfortably.


Costzon Ride-On Car

Best Electric Truck for Kids

This suave black truck is great for kids who want a substantial vehicle and parents who want to control their child’s safety. There are two handy modes. The parental mode allows you to control the truck. This is great for younger kids.

Or your child can control the truck by themselves in manual mode using the foot pedal and steering wheel. This feels like driving a real car, giving your little one a sweet taste of independence!

But don’t worry if they do choose the manual mode. It’s totally safe. It comes with a seatbelt, so they’re secure. Even if they do bump into your mailbox, they won’t be able to fall out of the vehicle.

As well as the realistic look and the seatbelt, there are more authentic features. Think MP3, wing mirrors, headlights, rear lights, reverse mode, opening and closing doors, a horn, and more.

Pros

  • 60-minute run time.
  • Suitable for different surfaces, including grass, brick, asphalt, and more.
  • Rear storage box for your kid’s supplies.
  • Parent mode and manual mode options.

Cons

  • 8-12 hours charge per battery.
  • Complicated assembly.
  • If your child is older than 4, it may seem too small for them.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
3 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Experience

I recently purchased this electric car for my young relative, and I have a mixed experience with it. The car itself is fantastic, with a good battery life and enjoyable features like the mp3/Bluetooth speakers and realistic lights. However, the assembly was quite challenging, and the instructions were not very clear, making the process time-consuming. The remote control steering has a poor turning radius, and it requires ample space to complete a full turn. Despite these issues, the child loved the car, but I believe there might be better options available in the market.


Power Wheels Jeep Wrangler

Best Power Wheels Jeep

This Jeep Wrangler has a flashy exterior and comes with Hot Wheels colors and graphics. You can also choose from a variety of other themes, including Disney Princess, Jurassic World, Toy Story 4, and several others. The chrome detailing adds to the realistic experience, as do the sound effects.

This is an excellent option for two children, the cab is roomy, and there’s plenty of storage space in the back. The 12V battery gives this car plenty of power, and it’s well-suited to even or rough terrains. This car can travel at 2.5 or 5 miles per hour to suit your child’s needs.

This unit has a power-brake system that stops the vehicle when your child’s foot is off the accelerator. The wide-tread tires help create a stable base and prevent tipping while improving the car’s balance.

This vehicle is recommended for children aged 3 to 7 years and can support up to 130 pounds.

Pros

  • Lots of legroom for a growing child.
  • Fully safety tested by Fisher-Price.
  • High maximum weight capacity.

Cons

  • No seat belt.
  • Plastic wheels aren’t very durable.

Our Ratings

Safety
3.5 / 5
Battery Life
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Insight

In my experience, this jeep has been a hit with my 4-year-old grandson and even his younger sibling. It offers two speed options, making it easy for little ones to learn how to drive. However, the hard plastic wheels could use better traction for uphill, grass, or dirt/sand surfaces. While there are a few minor issues like the loose back bar and short battery life, overall, it has provided hours of fun for the kids.


Lil’ Rider Classic Sports Car

Best Electric Sports Car for Kids

This vintage sports car is just the right product to give your kid some swag in the street. Great for kids ages 3 to 5, this car can handle up to 70 pounds.

It’s super easy for kids to use and parents to operate with the remote control. You can put your little one in here and remain in total control of their electric car!

The car is battery-operated, with headlights, car sound effects, and two-speed options. The vehicle can even reverse, which is perfect if you get stuck in a precarious situation or need to do a three-point turn!

The car is made from high-quality plastic and is designed to be safe and durable.

Another awesome detail: this car has an auxiliary input, so your child can play their favorite tunes while cruising!

Pros

  • MP3 input.
  • Remote control operated.
  • Lots of cool features.
  • Vintage-style sports car.

Cons

  • Quite small.
  • The remote doesn’t have a huge range.

Our Ratings

Safety
4 / 5
Battery Life
3 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Review

Definitely a fun and unique toy for little ones, this car has some great features like headlights, horn, and bonus lights. Although assembly can be a bit challenging due to unclear instructions, it's worth the effort for the enjoyment it brings. The parental controls are easily accessible to the child, which can be a downside for some parents. Despite a few cosmetic issues and the need for minor fixes, this car provides entertainment and is a great value for the price.


Moderno Kids Explorer Ride-On Truck

Best Two Seater

This ride-on truck has wide wheels that provide stability and work on even or rough terrain. It’s available in a wide variety of colors and is packed with features.

This model offers functional doors and seats two children. It can support up to 100 pounds and is suitable for ages 3 to 6.

The electric car runs on a 12V battery that has overcharge protection. This truck runs between 2 and 5 miles per hour and offers luxurious upgrades.

It comes with adjustable PU leather seats and a convertible seat belt that works for two riders. A parental remote control option helps keep your child safe.

Additional features include shock absorbers that help ensure a smooth ride — whatever terrain you encounter. It also has LED light systems and foam rubber tires.

An integrated MP3 player has Bluetooth capabilities and lets your child choose the perfect soundtrack.

Pros

  • Gradual acceleration.
  • Includes a reliable brake system.
  • It has an on-screen digital battery-level display.

Cons

  • Assembly instructions are inadequate.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
3.5 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Individual Opinion

I recently purchased this battery-powered jeep for my toddler, and it has been a hit with both my child and me. The remote control feature is fantastic, allowing me to drive my toddler around the yard while they get the hang of using the accelerator pedal and turning. Assembly was a bit tricky, but with the help of the guide and some YouTube videos, I managed to put it together. However, I did notice a cracked reflector and a slightly cracked cover near the screws, so I hope the company provides replacements. The lights and radio features are great, and my child enjoys riding with music playing. Despite the assembly challenges, this jeep has brought lots of fun and excitement for my child and will hopefully continue to do so for years to come.


Moderno Ride-On Truck

Best Parent Controlled Remote

The Moderno ride-on truck can be controlled by parents while driving. It offers two adjustable leather seats and 2-way seat belts.

A 12V battery offers the power you’re looking for. It can travel 2 to 5 miles per hour and can also travel in reverse at a slower speed. It’s an excellent option for children between 3 and 8 years of age, with a combined rider weight capacity of 100 pounds.

This unit sits low to the ground, which is good for maintaining balance and preventing accidental tipping. It includes a handle on the rear, so parents can lift the unit to move it easily.

This off-road model offers a “monster traction” system and rubber tires that do well on uneven terrain — even on wet grass.

Pros

  • A great ride-on option for older or taller children.
  • Performs well when off-roading.
  • Comes in a wide range of colors.
  • Working dash button controls.

Cons

  • Instructions for assembly are not very helpful.
  • More expensive than many other options.

Our Ratings

Safety
4.5 / 5
Battery Life
3.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Age-appropriateness
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I recently purchased this car for my grandchildren and found it relatively easy to assemble. However, I encountered some issues with the battery life, as it seemed to decrease with each subsequent charge, requiring me to spend significant time troubleshooting. On a positive note, the car's music and flashing lights were a big hit with the kids, making it a fun and entertaining toy despite the battery issues.

What You Should Know Before Buying

Before shopping for your next battery-powered toddler car or ride-on toy, you’ll need to know what to look for. In this guide, we’ll start with the basics and move on to discuss some things you may not have considered.

What Is a Kid’s Electric Car?

Ride-on and battery-operated cars are miniature versions of the real thing. Popular brands you’ve probably heard of include Power Wheels and Kool Karz.

These trucks and cars actually work. Your child can sit in them and drive them. You’ll even find off-road options capable of working on rough terrain.

There are a wide variety of electric cars on the market. Some are geared toward toddler-aged children, while others are suitable for older children.

How Safe Are Kid’s Electric Cars?

These cars are designed for children to use. Most types are wide-set to avoid tipping and have a low center of gravity.

Like any other toy or activity, there is some risk involved with using electric cars for kids. However, there are things you can do to keep the activity safe.

  • Establish rules before using the vehicle: Let your child know when and where it’s safe to use their electric car — and where it isn’t. Clearly defining safety parameters will make your child confident in their choices while also keeping them safe.
  • Teach your kids how to be safe when using electric cars and when others are using them: Knowing how to behave both off and on a ride-on toy will help keep your child injury-free.
  • Always supervise your child when they’re in the vehicle: Supervision can help you intercept a child who’s using a ride-on toy dangerously.
  • Consider a helmet: Even if the likelihood of an accident is low, protecting your little one from a head injury is worth the extra effort (1). It sets a good precedent for later activities where head injuries are more common. Knee and elbow pads may also be helpful in case any mishaps occur.

At What Age Can Kids Use Electric Cars?

Ride-on toys are available for a variety of ages. Power Wheels and other electric cars for kids are best suited for children ages 2–8, but each car will come with its own recommended age. When selecting your purchase, you must choose one appropriate for your child’s age.

Age isn’t the only factor you’ll want to consider. You’ll also need to think about your child’s height and weight.

An overly tall 2-year-old may have difficulty fitting in a toddler-geared car, but opting to move to a larger vehicle may not always be a good choice. Your toddler might not be ready for a ride-on made for older children.

Many of these cars also come with a weight limit. Don’t forget to consider your child’s weight — especially if you’re buying a two-seater for children at the upper age limit.

How to Choose the Best Kids Electric Car

Kids love high-tech electric vehicles that come with many fun features. These are some of the things we compared when selecting our list of the best electric cars for kids.

Bluetooth Capability

Are you looking to sync a playlist to your kids’ electric car? Some models offer this option, and our kids love it! They can jam out to their favorite tunes while driving, just like their parents do.

Seat Belts

The best electric cars come with seat belts or safety restraints for kids. Are you looking at toys that are capable of greater speed? Will your child be on uneven terrain? Go ahead and opt for safety belts.

Speed Options

Some electric cars may only have a one-speed option, but many come with multiple gears. A word of warning — a little speed can go a long way, especially for highly energetic children.

Parental Override Options

If your child is a thrill seeker,  you may want to consider a remote-controlled option that allows you to make good decisions for your child — especially when they’re not going to.

Suspension and Shock Absorbers

Are you buying a vehicle you know will be for off-road use? You may want to consider vehicles that offer shock absorption and suspension systems. This will keep your child comfortable while preventing unnecessary wear and tear on the car.

Towing Capabilities

Some vehicles come with the ability to tow other items behind them. If you have a little helper who’s interested in outdoor chores, a towing option may be ideal.

Sound and Lighting Effects

Realism is great for children. Some kids electric cars have revving sounds, working horns, and headlights that turn on and off.

Additional Features

There’s no limit to what you might encounter while shopping for a kids electric car or other ride-on vehicles. You’ll find gradual acceleration, themed car options, battery-level indicators, and other fun features.


Kids Electric Car FAQs

We’ve rounded up some of the most frequently asked questions and answered them for you below.

How Fast Do Electric Cars Actually Go?

This will depend on the size of the battery. A car that runs on a 6V battery will usually go 2 to 3 miles an hour. A car with a 12V battery can go up to 5 miles an hour.

How Long Does It Take to Charge?

An average-sized 12V battery generally takes 12 hours to charge fully.

How Many Different Types Are There?

There are a variety of the best ride-on cars for kids available. Some have been modeled after existing cars and have their names, such as Jeep, Chevy, Lamborghini, and Maserati.

Ride-on toys aren’t limited only to cars, though. There are pickup trucks, tractors, sports cars, ATVs, and other three-wheeled and four-wheeled options.

You can even find non-traditional, two-wheel options. For the sake of this article, however, we’ve stuck mostly with four-wheeled vehicles.

How Long Will the Battery Last?

Like a car battery, you may need to replace your battery at some point. This likelihood increases if you have multiple children using the car for years.

Most batteries will last you for at least three years. You’ll be able to replace it and continue using your existing kids ride-on rather than purchasing a new vehicle. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on how frequently to charge the battery.

Are Electric Cars Good For Kids?

Electric cars can be good for kids, offering fun and a sense of independence while encouraging outdoor play. They help develop spatial awareness and basic driving skills. However, it’s important they are used under supervision and in safe, appropriate areas.

Where Do You Store Kids’ Electric Cars?

Store kids’ electric cars in a garage, shed, or any dry, sheltered area to protect them from the elements. Ensure the storage area is secure and that the cars are not accessible to children without adult supervision.

Can You Replace a Battery In a Kid’s Electric Car?

Yes, you can replace the battery in a kid’s electric car if it’s battery-operated. Most have a removable battery pack that can be replaced with the same type and voltage. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing batteries and dispose of old batteries properly.

What is the Weight Limit For Electric Cars For Kids?

The weight limit for electric cars for kids varies by model. Typically, smaller cars might have a weight limit of around 50-65 pounds, while larger models can accommodate 100 pounds or more. Always check the specific weight recommendations for the car you’re considering.


Feedback: Was This Article Helpful?
Thank You For Your Feedback!
Thank You For Your Feedback!
What Did You Like?
What Went Wrong?
Headshot of Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN

Reviewed by

Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN

Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN is an oncology nurse navigator and freelance medical writer. Mary has 4 years of experience as an officer in the Navy Nurse Corps. including emergency/trauma, post-anesthesia, and deployment medicine.