Slot cars

Slot cars are model cars that are built to run on depressed single-rail tracks—hence the "slot" name. Users can run, and race, the cars through the use of a hand-held, radio-equipped throttle that controls a small, powerful electric motor hidden within the car; greater depression on the throttle produces a greater speed. The challenge in racing slot cars comes in that taking turns at too high a speed will cause the car to lose its grip on the rail and go flying spectacularly. With more than one car, additional tracks are used to avoid collisions.

Much as in rail transport modelling, slot car fanatics will build elaborate tracks, sculpted to have the appearance of a real-life track. Slot car racing has a smaller (though equally enthusiastic) following than model railroading.

Brands

Producers of slot cars include: Scalextric who also produce sets for Marks and Spencers, Ninco, Fly Cars, Vanquish MG and SCX of Spain, and Carrera of Germany.