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Lexus LX power wheels toy car built especially for kids with cerebral palsy

The SUV features a special seat, bigger doors and is controlled by a joystick



March is observed as the Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, and to raise awareness about the disorder, Lexus and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF) have teamed up to build a one-of-its-kind LX convertible.
Image Credit: Lexus

Most kids love roaring around the house and garden behind the wheel of ride-on vehicles and gearhead parents will tell you it is the perfect way to introduce their little ones to the world of motoring. You could even drum in the importance of driving safely at this early age but sadly, some youngsters with congenital disorders are unable to experience these battery operated vehicles. However, Lexus has come up with a solution.

Since March is the month of Cerebral Palsy Awareness, it collaborated with Givewith and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF) by creating an LX ride-on customized for a girl with the disorder.

Six-year-old Finley Smallwood has the condition that affects her ability to move and maintain balance and posture and due to this she is unable to ride on power wheels, until now.

The first recipient of the car is six-year-old Finley Smallwood and has been modified for her needs.
Image Credit: Lexus

The topless LX SUV, gifted to Finley, features waist-high side padding, a modified seat, adjustable headrest, a five-point harness, a lowered ride height and larger doors all designed to keep her safe and secure and allow easy ingress and egress. The biggest change is the method of control; Lexus has outfitted it with a joystick to control its direction and acceleration because some children with cerebral palsy might not be able to use a foot pedal or have the strength to use a steering wheel. Last but not least, the car has been painted purple, Finley’s favourite colour.

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Its special features include additional padding on the side for lateral support, a modified seat and an adjustable headrest.
Image Credit: Lexus

Commenting on the special project, Cooper Ericksen, Vice President - Product Planning & Strategy, Lexus Group said, "We create vehicles around the art and science of human needs. In this case, we wanted to push the envelope and explore what that might mean for a child with cerebral palsy who hasn't been able to experience the joy of mobility like other children have."

For more car news and reviews, head to www.wheels.ae

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