12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V: Ride-On Car Speeds Explained

If you’re looking for a new ride-on car for your kids but aren’t sure what the power levels mean, we can help! 

Cars for kids are the perfect choice for outdoorsy kids or families who want to add a bit of adventure to playtime. But with so many options out there, how fast is too fast? 

Our handy guide will take you through the basics of power levels, so you can decide which one works best for you. A good toy should keep your kids safe and comfortable without compromising on the fun. 

Why Do Speed Settings Matter? 

Because faster ride-on cars are harder to control! Although all these toys are designed for kids, different power levels are intended for different age groups, based on how mature or confident they tend to be. 

If you're not sure what power level is best for your kids, you should consider: 

• Safety: Above all, make sure your kids will have full control over the toy at all times. They should be able to follow rules and react to a changing environment in time. 

• Maturity and experience: Confidence usually comes with experience, so older kids can usually handle faster ride-on vehicles. Kids mature at different rates, so you should always trust your own judgment of your child. 

• Personality and play style: How does your child usually play? Some kids would love a chance to experience higher speeds, while others might be more comfortable at a slower pace. Think about what they usually love. 

• Interest in additional features: Higher-powered models often come with more entertainment features designed to create a more authentic driving experience, such as LED lights, Bluetooth speakers, leather seats, and functional horns and doors. 

What Do The Different Power Levels Mean?

One way to shop for a ride-on toy is to match the power level to your child’s age or experience. You can always find age recommendations in the product description on our website, but trust your own judgment first. 

There are four common power levels in the mainstream market: 12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V. 

Here’s a breakdown of top speeds and age groups based on different power levels:

You should also consider factors like the type of tyres used or how powerful its motors are. Most powerful models also come with a remote, so you can control how fast your child can ‘drive’ their car. 

How Fast Does a 12V Ride-On Go? 

About 4-5km/h, depending on the motors! 12V ride-on cars are usually best for children aged between 3 and 6 years old. They usually come with a few safety features, such as automatic brakes and EVA tyres to help kids stay in control and prevent accidents.

If you have a really young or inexperienced child, a 6V model might suit them better. Whilst they're less popular, they're perfect for toddlers, as you can walk alongside your child without having to run (since they have a top speed of around 2-3mph). 

How Fast Does a 24V Ride-On Go? 

24V ride-on cars have a maximum speed of around 4-8km/h and are designed for kids aged between 4 and 8 years. They're also more efficient: 24V batteries often last between 60 and 90 minutes on average, so your kids can play for longer in one play session. 

At MC Wholesalers, all our branded designs come with a power level of 24V or higher, so older kids can feel like they're emulating the adults in their lives. You can get 24V ride-on Mercedes or Lamborghini cars, which are more stylish and a great choice for kids who want to show off to their peers. 

Some 24V vehicles for kids use a single 24V lead-acid battery, while others use two 12V batteries placed side-by-side in the battery compartment. 

How Fast Does a 36V Ride-On Go? 

Most 36V ride-on vehicles have a top speed of up to 12km/h. They’re well-suited to children aged eight and up, as they’re more powerful and often take more skill and strength to control. They also come in a huge range of styles, from ride-on go karts to rugged 36V quad ATVs made for outdoor exploration. 

How Fast Does a 48V Ride-On Go? 

48V ride-on cars are the most powerful option readily available in the Australian market, and the highest-quality models can reach speeds of up to 28km/h. They’re usually designed for preteens and younger teenagers, and have a higher weight capacity to match. 

You might think teenagers don’t need toys, but keeping play in their lives actually benefits them in the long term. According to Educated By Nature, play can help teenagers understand their social world and connect to their peers, similar to how younger kids thrive when given the chance to play together. 

How Do I Pick a Ride-On Car Speed For My Kids? 

It’s all about what works best for your kid and the family as a whole. 

You need to think through a few key factors, including: 

• Age: What speed suits your child’s age group best? 

• Budget: Higher-powered toys cost more by nature, but they can last longer over time. 

• Experience: Children who’ve never played with a ride-on car might find it harder to learn on a faster model. 

• Environment: There’s no point getting a high-speed ride-on vehicle if you don’t have the space for your kids to make the most of that speed safely. 

High-Quality Ride-On Cars From MC Wholesalers 

Looking for the perfect gift for an adventurous kid? Try something from MC Wholesalers! 

We’re proud of our extensive collection of vehicles for kids, which come in several different power levels, allowing kids of all experience levels to explore their world from the back of a ride-on car. 

Whatever your kid’s into, you’ll find something they’ll love at the right power level for them. 

Explore our range of ride-on cars today!