Get motoring with child scale from Santa

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Motoring

Written by Staff Reporter

Wednesday, 12 December 2007

From Alfa Romeo to Audi, Mini to Mercedes and a line-up that includes dumper trucks, tractors and fire engines, there is a huge selection of children's electric and pedal cars in readiness for Christmas. If you have a budding driver in your family, you can get their F1 career off to an early start by getting behind the wheel of their very own Formula One pedal car. These cars costs 'slightly' less than real thing, but will provide as much fun for a budding Alonso.

'Getting behind the wheel' is every youngster's dream and, with such a wide range to choose from, they can drive a car just like Mum and Dad, pretend to be the next Kimi Raikkonen or Felipe Massa in a Formula 1 Ferrari, or even start building their own tracks and circuits with a digger or dumper truck.

What might be a bit of a gas guzzler in real life, takes its power from a single 12 volt battery, but feeds it smoothly to two electric motors that propel this slick open-top sports model to a blistering 8km/hr.

Top 10 tips for kid safe driving

On the big day, when excitement is high, don't lose sight of the safety messages. To maximise safety at all times, it is recommended that children under the age of 12 are supervised by a responsible adult.

Choose an area that is wide and clear of obstacles, with only a gentle slope and long run off areas.
Do not use close to parked cars.
Avoid icy surfaces and avoid using in excessively wet or snowy conditions.
Look for a smooth surface and avoid large holes, ruts, tree roots etc.
Only use the cars in day-light, or in well-lit areas.
Stay seated at all times, and do not attempt 'stunts and tricks' such as travelling backwards or standing up.
Make sure you avoid any routes, which are near roads, streams or ponds.
Keep arms and legs well tucked in, and clothing such as scarves, drawstrings etc away from wheels and other moving parts.
Dress properly with appropriate clothing and footwear.