Tiny 4x4s, tough terrain: RC off-road racing takes Kochi by storm

KOCHI: Rocky stretches, waterfalls, hanging bridges and steep hills — these are among the obstacles awaiting miniature cars on indoor crawling tracks in Kochi. Designed to recreate the challenges of a real forest trail, remote-controlled (RC) off-road racing brings the excitement of off-road driving to battery-powered miniature vehicles.

The challenge is to complete each task without the car overturning. Concentration and patience are essential, making the experience as much about careful control as the thrill of navigating difficult terrain. Children and adults can participate, and challenges can also be taken up in teams. The activity offers an alternative to virtual-screen gaming. It also opens up entrepreneurial opportunities through adventure clubs where customers can rent cars and tracks for a specified period, with snack cafés providing an additional offering.

RC cars are manufactured in proportion to full-sized vehicles. Models built at one-tenth the size of their full-sized counterparts are known as 1:10-scale RC cars.

3,000-square-foot track in Thrikkakara

RC7 Adventure Cafe & Club in Thrikkakara, one of the first ventures of its kind in Kochi, has tracks covering 3,000 square feet. Eight cars are available for rent. Customers can also bring their own RC cars and use the track facilities.

The establishment also offers RC car sales and servicing. The cars are priced between Rs 55,000 and Rs 80,000, while the minimum rental charge for a car and track access is Rs 250 for 20 minutes.

For now, the club offers challenges for participants to complete. Introducing car races is also under consideration.

“Right now, we are setting challenges for participants. Car races are under consideration,” says K. A. Shabaz of RC 7 Club.