Firefly
The Firefly, created
by Young Driver Motor Cars, featuring an electric powertrain, proper suspension and disc brakes, it’s
engineered just like a real car – but in miniature.
First unveiled in April at the Gadget
Show Live, the Firefly has been further developed on the back of over 1,000
youngsters' feedback. Its makers say it's built to the same exacting standards
as any other passenger car, and the sharp bodywork has been designed by Chris
Johnson, a designer with over 30 years experience working for various
manufacturers of full-size cars.
The Firefly is powered by a pair of
electric motors which give a top speed of just 16 km/h, though in ‘Junior’ mode,
it’s limited to 8 km/h. Junior mode also activates a sophisticated sensor system,
which will operate an autonomous braking system. It can also be controlled remotely by parents or instructors.
Like the BMW 7 Series, the Firefly also
benefits from LED headlights and taillights, independent suspension, and leather
seats, as well as a digital instrument panel. It’s a strict two-seater, though,
with a fixed passenger seat and an adjustable driver’s seat that the
manufacturer claims will accommodate adults up to six feet tall.
Originally the car was designed
specifically for use by Young Driver Motor Cars, but the company is now
pursuing CE certification to allow it to be sold to the public from 2017. With bespoke paint finishes and individual
badging on the cards, it could be the next must-have toy.
With an expected price tag of over
£ 6,000 when VAT is factored in, it won’t come cheap, but Young Driver can offer
driving lessons for five to ten year olds at selected venues at £ 19.95 for 20
minutes.
