RC Cars: Check Out The Latest Pandemic Craze

What happens when the world shuts down? When you can no longer hang with your friends or eat out every night of the week. There are only so many books you can read or timelines to scroll. So, that leaves you with one thing left to do: you start a hobby.

During quarantine, the world had more time on their hands than ever thought possible. While frontline workers fought tirelessly to mitigate the spread of Covid-19, others stayed at home, isolated, and unsure of what to do next. It wasn’t before long the restlessness of Americans kicked in.

Our society quickly became obsessed with creating TikTok videos, playing outdoor sports, and picking up a new set of skills. Kitchens across America started serving up banana bread recipes. Dalgona coffee became the burning desire of caffeine fanatics. And buying remote control cars, commonly known as RC cars, became the perfect covid-proof pastime for every age.

Read on to see how remote control cars grew in popularity and why all car enthusiasts should give it a try.

A little bit of history

While many RC-fans have come out of the woodworks in 2021, the hobby has been around for quite some time. The first remote control car dates back to the 1960’s, a nitro-powered Ferrari 250LM. By the next decade, electric models were making their way into retail shops across America.

With a wider access, RC cars began to take off in popularity. Consumers found great joy in these small-scale models, both for their performance and hands-on nature. It was an easy investment for die-hard racing fans or gearheads who live and breathe automotives as well.

It wasn’t until RC racing events entered the picture that remote control cars became a full blown hobby. Years later, countless races and off-roading endeavors have been had. There are now a handful of RC cars on the market, from rock crawlers to short course trucks, all which have varying speeds.

Today, remote control cars have become the hottest pandemic hobby. Even those who don’t consider themselves car enthusiasts have found a new take on entertainment thanks to RC cars. Call it what you want, but these small remote cars have taken over and their industry growth is now expansive.

Remote control cars as a hobby

The good thing about RC cars is it doesn’t require regular supplies like painting or cooking would. It’s a hobby that’s started by a one time purchase, or perhaps a few more if you plan on building a collection. Everything after that first purchase is just an upgrade or battery related.

With that said, RC cars vary immensely in price, which is mostly determined by speed. Anything above 30+mph will cost you $300-400 per model. However, some remote control cars can reach closer to $1,000 or more, like the ARRMA RC Truck.

If you’re new to the remote control car world, you might want to start small. It’s great practice, especially for younger kids who are getting used to the controls and movement of the radio-powered vehicle.

Here are some consumer favorites on Amazon for under $100:

Tecnok RC Racing Car for Kids

Image source: Amazon

If your little one is interested in RC fan club, start them out with the Tecnok RC Racing Car with 2.4Ghz power and two rechargeable batteries that allot for 30-40 minutes of drive time.

Price: $32.99

HENEROAR RC Monster Truck

Image source: Amazon

This four wheel drive monster truck is made for fun. RC enthusiasts both young and old will enjoy the non jamming performance, duel power motors, and all terrain capabilities. Not to mention, its the number one bestseller on Amazon for RC cars

Price: $33.99

Bezgar 3 RC Truck

Image source: Amazon

This high speed truck is the perfect beginner model. It packs just enough punch with a 390L brushed motor with an easy to use controller. With 4WD and wear-resistant tires, you can take this model in the sand or dirt without issue.

Price: $96.99

RC racing

RC cars assembled a loyal following from the start, but racing is what brought these likeminded hobbyist together. Motor enthusiasts, in particular, took great interest in this pastime because of one component only: speed. Once you’ve got your hands on the radio control, the need for speed kicks in.

With the proper mechanics underway and a battery charing routine, you’ll be ready to race. So far, many Americans have taken a jab at entering their remote control car in race near them. With its peak in popularity in 2020-2021, you’ll likely see more racing opportunities pop up in the years ahead.

Take a look at the inner workings of a RC race event at Adrenaline RC racing in Winchester, Virginia.

Full speed ahead

RC cars surged during COVID-19 for obvious reasons. These tiny models are undeniable fun, they range in price, and they’re easy to mod or upgrade when you’re ready for a change. It may even be your best chance at owning a version of your dream car.

Now that the quarantining days are behind us, you can fully embrace your RC hobby (safely of course). Take your remote control car to a park, enter into a RC race near you, or connect with other RC enthusiasts around the nation. There is no sign of a downturn for this popular pandemic hobby!