Ford has introduced an all-electric version of the Mustang GT, but there’s a major catch. It’s just a fraction of the size of a real pony car because it was developed by Fisher-Price for kids aged between 3 and 7.
The Blue Oval promises the newest addition to Fisher-Price’s Power Wheels lineup is more advanced than any kiddie car to date. That’s partly because it features a built-in sound system with a large speaker that plays the symphony of the ‘Stang’s 5.0-liter V8 engine, a feature that makes the driving experience more realistic for young drivers. Kids who would rather sit back and enjoy the ride can play three preloaded songs, or listen to their favorite playlist by plugging in an MP3 player.
The Mustang GT inaugurates Fisher-Price’s new computer-controlled powertrain. Named Smart Drive, it brings features such as a traction control system that adjusts the speed of the electric motors if it detects wheel slip so that kids can power through wet grass or bumpy roads without getting stuck, and a stability control system that turns the motors off if it senses the car is about to roll over.
The electric drivetrain gives the GT a top speed of 5 mph forward and 2.5 mph in reverse. Five speed settings accessible via a touch screen on the dashboard allow parents to control how fast their kids go. There’s even a feature named Smooth Start Technology that reduces the car’s tendency to jerk while accelerating at low speeds.
The Smart Drive Mustang carries a base price of $360, and the first deliveries are scheduled for next month. It’s only available as a convertible, as you’d expect from a Power Wheels car, but parents can order it in either blue or pink.
