BERLIN, June 18 — A pedal-powered car built by German motoring icon Porsche is a steal at just US$900 (RM2,790).

Using the same construction techniques and materials more commonly associated with professional bicycles and bearing many of the design hallmarks associated with the German sportscar maker, the Porsche Driver’s Selection Go-Kart features composite alloy wheels complete with inflatable tyres, a proper sports seat and a handbrake for evasive manoeuvres that the driver can use in conjunction with the back-pedal coaster brake.

Weighing in at a mere 25kg, the kart should be nimble and quick off the mark, even if it is only being propelled forward by the driver’s own power; however, the lack of a serious six-cylinder race-tuned engine should make it more, rather than less appealing to safety-conscious parents.

Porsche claims that the kart is suitable for all young drivers aged five and over, weighing no more than 50kg and no more than 1.5m tall.

However, many parents will claim that the Go-Kart is a vaguely concealed attempt to strengthen the Porsche brand with the next generation of drivers, before they’re even old enough to travel in a car without some form of bolster cushion. And while there is clearly an air of marketing about the Go-Kart, it does provide serious fun at a serious price of US$900.

Meanwhile competitor BMW has partnered with MacLaren — the manufacturer of strollers, not supercars — which has resulted in a BMW-branded baby buggy, complete with five-point racing harness and a host of accessories. — AFP-Relaxnews