ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR - Special Helpline: Freephone 0800 034 0294

In the UK, electric wheelchairs runs on rechargeable batteries. An electric chair is a lot heavier than a manual wheelchair since the frame (usually a fixed frame) has to support parts such as battery, motors and gears. Speed, braking and turning are regulated by a joystick control, though there are other methods for those who cannot operate a joystick, notably head-chin control and voice activation. Pneumatic tyres are common.

An electric wheelchair offers power, speed and comfort, and there are a vast number of models to choose from. Because of this range, the electric chairs vary greatly in price in the UK. Expect to pay from a couple of thousand pounds, right up to £16,000 for a model that is capable of tilting, climbing stairs and elevating the user (perfectly safely!) on two wheels.

Since most electric powered wheelchairs are not able to be folded or dismantled easily, they cannot be transported simply in smaller vehicles. If you are considering purchasing this type, be mindful of accessibility around your home or workplace as well as the greater maintenance costs involved. Use a reputable supplier and beware of second-hand models.

In the UK, there are three basic propulsion methods used. Rear wheel drive is the most common, while front wheel drive offers a lower top speed but improved turning capability. Mid-wheel drive electric chair models are best at turning but can be less effective on uneven ground.

Power electric chairs employ one of three kinds of battery: wet, gel and absorbent glass mat. Wet batteries rely on a chemical reaction between lead and sulphuric acid, and need to be topped up with distilled water. Due to this, they require regular maintenance and are liable to leak, though in their favour they are cheap and light and perform well. Gel batteries are a mixture of water, silica and acids. While being heavier and more costly than wet batteries, they require no maintenance and cannot leak as you don’t have to add distilled water. They also perform better in low temperatures and have a longer life cycle. AGM batteries contain an absorbent glass mat. Like gel batteries, they cannot leak and do not need maintenance. Although they are the most expensive type, they have the added benefits of being particularly shock resistant and having a low rate of self-discharge when idle.

In the UK, electric wheelchair batteries are generally available from electrical retailers where they are often cheaper than those from wheelchair suppliers, so shop around.