The Little Car Company
based in the U.K., has taken remote control cars to a whole new level by creating a full-size version of the popular 1:10-scale Tamiya Wild One RC car. This adult-size replica is fully drivable and has a top speed of 62 mph. It will be making its public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next weekend and will be available for purchase at a price of around $45,000.
The Wild One Max
as it is called, is the brainchild of the Little Car Company, the same company that has previously created miniature EV versions of classic cars like the Bugatti Baby II. While their earlier products were downsized, the Wild One Max is substantially larger than its remote control counterpart.
The original proposal for the Wild One Max
was announced in 2021 as a single-seater without a windscreen. It had a 5.5-hp electric motor and a tiny 2.0-kWh battery pack, which provided a range of 25 miles and a top speed of 30 mph. It was also going to be sold as a build-it-yourself kit, just like the original Wild One RC car, with an expected retail price of $8250.
However
the finished version of the Wild One Max has undergone significant changes. It is now longer, wider, and has space for two occupants. The cockpit has a width that allows for two people to sit comfortably, and the car has an overall length of 141.7 inches. The front suspension has been revised, with double wishbones replacing trailing arms, and it features long-travel Eibach springs and Bilstein dampers at each corner.
In terms of performance
the Wild One Max has received a substantial increase. It now uses a single motor that can deliver a peak power of 37 hp and a continuous rating of 19 hp. The motor is powered by a battery system that incorporates eight individually swappable packs with a total capacity of 14.4 kWh. The company claims that this is enough to provide a range of up to 124 miles, although this has not been validated.
Buyers in Europe will have the option to select a Road Pack
which adds a windscreen, wipers, mirrors, mudguards, and lights to the car. With this pack, the car will qualify as a “quadricycle” and can be registered for road use, although it will not be allowed on higher-speed highways. In some European countries, 14-year-olds will be able to drive it. However, the car will not meet U.S. federal standards, so it cannot be registered for road use in the States, although it may be allowed for neighborhood use in some areas.
The Wild One Max is designed
to be versatile off-road, with features like 10.6 inches of ground clearance, a 34.1-degree approach angle, and a 50.8-degree departure angle. The 14-inch wheels are equipped with road-spec tires in the front and aggressive Maxxis Bighorn off-road tires in the rear. It is expected to provide an exhilarating experience on the dirt.
All these upgrades from the original proposal have come at a higher price. The Wild One Max will start at around $45,000 in the U.K., making it a serious investment for a toy. However, with its impressive performance and attention to detail, it promises to be a very serious toy for those who can afford it.
In conclusion
the Little Car Company has taken the concept of remote control cars to the next level by creating a fully drivable adult-size version of the Tamiya Wild One RC car. The Wild One Max offers impressive performance, a range of up to 124 miles, and the option for road use in Europe. While it may come with a hefty price tag, it is sure to provide an incredible driving experience for those lucky enough to own one.