Tesla has made a huge splash in the industry over the last few years, with its Model S and Model X vehicles considered a resounding success thanks to the company’s innovative design and tech capabilities. Sadly though, with a base price for both of around $87,000, the cars have remained out of reach for most auto buyers.
However, while the average person probably won’t be able to afford a Tesla, their children just might. The company has just unveiled the mini Model S—a fully functioning micro-version of Tesla’s popular EV— which will retail at $499. The vehicle serves not only as a fun toy for kids, but also an ingenious way to promote the brand with future drivers.
Auto sales students might also be surprised to learn that Tesla isn’t the only automotive company producing children’s versions of its cars. Read on to find out more about this small but significant part of the auto market.
Why Connecting with Today’s Kids is Important for Your Automotive Career
Car companies have been alarmed in recent years by the waning interest in driving among young people. Studies have shown that children and teenagers are now more likely to want the latest smartphone than a car, and the number of younger licensed drivers is declining. With this change in attitude, it’s become important for automakers to engage with the younger generation early, creating awareness of their brands and getting kids exciting about driving.
Tesla’s Mini Model S: A Perfect Automotive Sales Marketing Move?
With that in mind, the Tesla Mini Model S certainly provides a novel solution to the problem. Automotive sales training students will be impressed by the detail and sophistication of the toy’s design, which boasts fast-charging lithium-ion batteries, working headlights and a top speed of 10km/h.
Visually, the car looks almost exactly like the Model S, with Tesla even positioning the charging station in the same place. The toy also has a special front trunk for storage, and a sound system where kids can plug in a music player.
Check out the mini Model S here:
A Guide to the Mini Car Market for Students Taking Auto Leasing Training
Tesla isn’t the only manufacturer designing cars for kids. Luxury automakers such as Ferrari and Mercedes have partnered with UK Pocket Classic Cars to make miniatures of their famous models, which are often as expensive as $25,000 and built with real engines that can deliver speeds of up to 80km/h, though these can be modified and limited for safety purposes. Some are even sold through dealerships, which means auto leasing training students could end up selling the vehicles during their careers.
Another exciting possible addition to the mini-car market is the Toyota Camatte, a series of mini ‘concept’ cars the Japanese automaker has showcased at various toy fairs in the last few years. The three-seat vehicles are specially designed so that a child can sit in it with their parents, and the realistic controls—which feature a steering wheel, pedals and an instrument cluster—are designed to help children learn more about driving as they play.
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