How to transport an electric wheelchair

Electric wheelchairs, also known as powerchairs, are perfect for individuals looking to get out and about more, whether to the shops or for a ride through a local park.

First things first though, if you’re travelling by car, you need to get your electric wheelchair into your car boot – which isn’t always an easy task, especially if you are on your own. 

So in this article, we’ll look at three solutions for transporting your electric wheelchair. 

Invest in a lightweight electric wheelchair

It goes without saying that the easiest way of getting a powerchair into a car is to choose a lightweight, portable powerchair in the first place.

There are numerous options for lightweight electric wheelchairs in the UK, including some that fold or disassemble for easy transportation, such as the Robooter range.

Some of the powerchairs we sell are light enough to simply be lifted into your car boot, avoiding the need for additional equipment.

To find out more about lightweight powerchairs and which one to choose, we recommend reading our article: Top 5 lightest folding electric wheelchairs in the UK

Use ramps

If you currently own a powerchair that is too heavy to be lifted into your car, you may wish to invest in a set of ramps. Ramps are cost-effective and easy to use, and can easily be stored in your car alongside your wheelchair.

Having a set of ramps will allow you to wheel your powerchair into the back of your car. However, this solution will only work if your car boot and opening are large enough for your scooter to be loaded directly into it. 

Some higher-end bespoke powerchairs are crash-tested, which means the user can remain seated in the powerchair when transported within a vehicle. Powerchairs that are crash-tested will be marked clearly on the wheelchair with anchor points showing on the frame of the wheelchair.

Invest in a vehicle hoist

Another option transporting heavier electric wheelchairs is to invest in a car hoist.

A car boot hoist is installed into your car and attaches to your powerchair, lifting it into the back of your car with no physical input from you.

The downside of vehicle hoists is the extra cost involved. A typical car hoist costs between £1000-2000, which may be outside your budget. 

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