READING is among the first places in the country to get the latest electric sports car – and only a select few will get to drive it … children aged 10 or under.
The next generation of motorists are being invited to take it for a test drive at Mereoak near Grazeley.
The pint-sized EV Firefly Sport is for children aged between four and 10, and is available to help give them a chance to get behind the wheel and learn more about controlling a car.
Young Driver will offer lessons from Sunday, October 8, with sessions available on selected weekends and costing just £20.
And for those who want to do some homework, its sister firm Young Driver Motor Cars is offering the chance to buy the Firefly for £11,500.
Built in the Midlands, the 2.1m long car can accommodate adult drivers, and uses UK-sourced components, making it the country’s first all-British EV.
For those worried that Young Driver will create a new line of boy or girl racers, the Firefly’s speed is limited to 10mph. It also has a remote cut-off facility with a 200-metre range, as well as an automatic cut-off if it senses obstacles in its path, making it ultra-safe for first-time drivers.
Ian Mulingani, YDMC’s managing director, commented: “It’s hoped the car will help educate youngsters about road safety and how future motor vehicles can be an environmental force for good – as well as being a lot of fun.
“It’s designed to be straightforward and unintimidating, but being electric and looking like a junior supercar, it also aligns with the type of vehicle that children hope to drive when they pass their test.
“Having seen how young people respond behind the wheel, we can’t wait to let the youngsters of Reading give it a go. It’s all helping in our mission to create a next generation of safe, responsible motorists – as well as putting smiles on faces.”
For more details, log on to: www.youngdriver.com
