An electric wheelchair (also known as a powerchair) is a wheelchair that operates on some sort of power. Powerchairs are an armchair on wheels, equipped with batteries, motors and also other technical devices allowing you to perform functions like driving forward, driving backwards, braking or even turning left or right!
Electric Wheelchair Types
There are three main ‘types’ of power wheelchair – rear-wheel, front-wheel, and mid-wheel drive.
Rear-wheel drive power wheelchairs are the most common, and generally, add a greater degree of stability in turns. Power is output from the rear wheel axle when the power chair moves forward or backwards. The front caster wheels provide steering control when moving forward or backwards. When moving forward or backwards, there is no power to the rear wheel(s). Therefore, a rear-wheel-drive power wheelchair will not move forward or backwards when the joystick is returned to the neutral position.
Front-wheel drive wheelchairs have power applied from the front wheel axle. Power is output to either the left or right front caster wheel only as you push on the joystick to go forward or backwards. This type of power wheelchair generally has enough power to spin the front caster wheels in place. The steering control is generally not as responsive as a mid or rear-wheel drive power wheelchair, since there are two separate casters that need to be turned independently of each other.
Mid-wheel drive wheelchairs have an electric motor located between the rear wheels, with power applied to the rear wheel axle and drives one of the rear wheels. You generally push forward or backwards on a mid-wheel drive power wheelchair by pushing on the joystick, simulating pushing with your feet. The other rear wheel provides stability when moving forward/backwards.
Steering is controlled by the angle of the rear caster wheels.
These are a general description of power wheelchair types, and it is important to consider the benefits and disadvantages of each type before purchasing a power wheelchair for yourself or someone you care about. Your healthcare professional can assist with this process. Also, take a look at our list of the best electric wheelchairs on the UK market.