Inclusivity is at the heart of what play really means. Kids can gather around and bond over imagined narratives, regardless of any day-to-day challenges they might face in the real world. In an effort to continue its inclusive representation, Mattel’s Hot Wheels brand is launching the first-ever remote control wheelchair toy in partnership with paralympic athlete Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham.
The Hot Wheels R/C Aaron Wheelz Wheelie Chair features a built-in action figure modeled after Fotheringham and two-wheel drive. Suitable for kids ages 5 and up, the set comes with a rechargeable remote control (with a charging cable), a ramp so kids can perform epic tricks, and a stunt bar. The wheelchair can reach speeds of more than 10 kph.
Fotheringham is a paralympic athlete known for performing stunts from his wheelchair. Fotheringham overcame his challenges with spina bifida, a condition that impacts spinal cord development, to win the WCMX World Championship five times. He has also executed the first wheelchair flair/backflip 180.
In 2019, Mattel introduced a 1:64-scale, die-cast version of Fotheringham’s Wheelie Chair as part of the Hot Wheels mainline collection. The toy vehicle is still available in a variety of colorways as part of the basic Hot Wheels assortment.
Parents can teach kids about inclusivity and grab this inspiring new toy this fall. The Hot Wheels R/C Aaron Wheelz Wheelie Chair is available on Amazon for preorder, with an official release planned for Nov. 1.
