What's the news?
This is the Firefly a car designed for children aged five to 10 from Young Driver Motor Cars Limited, a division of Young Driver the UK's largest provider of under-17's driving lessons.
It is designed as an aid to teaching driving skills to younger children. It will go on sale worldwide from 2017; priced from roughly €6,820 plus VAT at current exchange rates.
According to the manufacturer most battery-powered children's cars are 'toys' mostly aimed at under-fives. The Firefly is claimed to be a properly engineered small car, designed by people with a motor industry background. It comes with hydraulic disk brakes, rack and pinion steering and an electronic tablet-based dashboard; there is even an optional collision prevention system. Drive comes from two electric motors and in 'Experienced' mode the top speed is limited to 10mph. A 'Junior' mode can also be selected that halves the top speed and enables the collision prevention system. In either mode, there is a remote control switch, which allows an adult to stop the car from up to 120 metres away.
The bodywork is designed by Chris Johnson, who has previously worked for Rover, Jaguar, Ford and Volvo. A range of colours will be available for those not keen on the orange of the car shown in the press photos. It will also be possible to order custom badging and leather seats.
Anything else?
Lessons with Young Driver will take place at venues across the UK this autumn. Parents who buy the car may be interested to know that the driver's seat is adjustable to accommodate a driver of up to 6 feet tall, so there is a chance that mum or dad can have a go too.