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HOW TO TURN A MANUAL WHEELCHAIR INTO A POWER WHEELCHAIR

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Powerpacks

 

Manual wheelchairs are the perfect choice for active users as they offer a high degree of independence, are lightweight, and are available in folding options, making them ideal for travel. However, some outdoor terrains pose a challenge for many manual wheelchair users, such as steep inclines and rough surfaces, or even simply tackling long distances.

Wouldn’t it be great if you could transform your manual wheelchair into a power wheelchair when you need it most? Well, you can!

Many of the leading wheelchair manufacturers offer power add-on kits for their manual models, designed to give you an extra boost of power whenever you need it. Lightweight and easy to fit, power assist devices can be fitted and removed as often as you like, and they’re portable. Many of the latest models can also be controlled and managed through smart phones and mobile devices.

Here are our top picks of wheelchair powerpacks and power add-on kits that are currently on the market and available from Independence Mobility.

 

Empulse R20

Empulse R20 push assist device

 

The Empulse R20, from Sunrise Medical, is a push-assist device that’s designed to make it easier for the attendant pushing the wheelchair. It’s incredibly easy to use, with a push-to-go control, two peg mounting, and an easy-to-read display.

We love the R20 for its lightweight nature. With a total transport weight of 4.5kg and a stylish backpack, it’s easy to handle. Plus, with its unique folding function, it’s ideal for storing and transporting, without having to disconnect it from the wheelchair.

Despite being lightweight and compact, the R20 doesn’t compromise on performance. It boasts a 9-mile range, as well as the ability to climb 5cm kerbs and 10-degree slopes.

 

Learn more about the Empulse R20 Push Assist

 

Alber ViaGo

Alber ViaGo push aid

 

The latest addition to Invacare’s power add-on portfolio is the Alber ViaGo push aid. Designed to provide extra power assistance when pushing or manoeuvring a wheelchair, it’s easy to use and quick to install.

It’s lightweight and compact design makes the ViaGo easy to handle and perfect for day-to-day activities. And it can be quickly removed, when required, and stored away to save space.

We love the ViaGo for its intuitiveness and flexibility. It is so straightforward that it can be used immediately, and its large buttons make control a breeze. It also doesn’t need to be removed when folding the wheelchair, so is very convenient to use.

 

Learn more about the Alber ViaGo Push Aid

 

Invacare SMOOV One

SMOOV One power add-on kit

 

Another of Invacare’s power add-on portfolio is the SMOOV One. Designed for active wheelchairs, this impressive power assist offers additional power and ultimate performance. It is quick and easy to attach to the manual wheelchair and has a top speed of 10km/h!

The SMOOV One can maintain a constant speed with one single push and is operated by a Bluetooth hand control unit that conveniently attaches to the chair.
SMOOV One’s powerful drive wheel will travel up to 20km distance, weighs just 7.2kg, and features a handy USB-C socket for charging purposes, making it ideal for active individuals who are always on the go.

 

Learn more about the Invacare SMOOV One

 

Susurro Enjo

Susurro Enjo power assist

 

The Susurro Enjo power assist has been designed to make pushing a wheelchair easier, especially on long journeys and on inclines.

It is lightweight and easy to install in less than a minute. It can also be fitted to tilt-in-space wheelbases, and folding and rigid wheelchairs, thanks to multi-functional brackets.

The Enjo has a maximum speed of up to 4mph and a 14-mile range when fitted with a 24V6Ah battery.

We love the Enjo’s power boost button - perfect for when you need an extra burst of power for tackling steep hills and climbs.

 

Learn more about the Susurro Enjo Power Assist

 

Powerpack HD

Powerpack HD push assist

 

The Powerpack HD is a push assist device that attaches to almost any wheelchair in seconds. Once fitted, the pusher simply strolls behind with their thumb on the control, whilst the Powerpack does all the hard work.

The Powerpack HD’s lightweight design makes it the ideal companion for travelling, whether you’re in the car, travelling by train, or taking a plane. 

It also boasts a 10-mile range and a speed of up to 4mph.

 

Learn more about the Powerpack HD Push Assist

 

Lightweight Powerstroll

Lightweight Powerstroll push assist

 

The Lightweight Powerstroll push assist device will turn most manual wheelchairs into carer controlled powered wheelchairs. It is designed to take the strain out of pushing a heavy wheelchair and makes easy work of hills, ramps, and gradients.

The Powerstroll allows a speed of up to 3mph and travels up to 10 miles (16km) on a full battery charge.

 

Learn more about the Lightweight Powerstroll Push Assist

 

 

 

More information on power add-on kits for manual wheelchairs can be found on our website, or call us on 0113 2628000 for advice from our team.

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Address:
Independence Mobility
Independence House
6 Buslingthorpe Green
Leeds
LS7 2HG
Telephone: 0113 2628000
Fax: 0113 2628001

Email: enquiries@independencemobility.co.uk

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