Electric Wheelchairs Designed for Universal Mobility

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【Summary】WHILL, a Tokyo-based startup, is gaining recognition for its innovative electric wheelchairs that aim to provide "mobility for all." The company offers three models that are not only practical but also fun to drive. The power chairs have a unique design and can be customized to fit in with people's daily lives. They are suitable for those with lower-body mobility impairments as well as elderly individuals with weakened physiques.

FutureCar Staff Sep 03, 2023 4:22 PM PT

Electric Wheelchairs Designed for Universal Mobility

WHILL, a startup company based in Tokyo's Shinagawa Ward, is on a mission to provide "fun and innovative mobility for all." Their focus is on developing and selling electric wheelchairs that cater to a wide range of users.

One of WHILL's key offerings is their short-distance mobility vehicles, which have gained recognition for their versatility. These vehicles are not only suitable for individuals with lower-body mobility impairments but also for elderly individuals with weakened physiques.

The company currently offers three different models for sale. The Model C2 is capable of overcoming steps up to five centimeters high and can make small turns with a turning radius of 76 centimeters. On the other hand, the Model F is lightweight and foldable, while the Model S is a type of mobility scooter. All models are designed to be operated intuitively, making them both practical and enjoyable to drive.

What sets WHILL's power chairs apart from ordinary electric wheelchairs is their design. Customers have the option to choose the color of the frame, and when riding, they can assume the same posture as when driving a car. Tomohiro Ikeda, the executive vice president in charge of Japan business, explained that by designing their vehicles to fit seamlessly into people's daily lives, they aim to alleviate the psychological barriers that people may have towards using them.

If you want to learn more about the current and potential applications of WHILL's innovatively designed power chairs and mobility scooters, you can read the full story on Japan 2 Earth. Additionally, Japan 2 Earth (J2E) offers a wide range of articles on the environment and the challenges of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sparking a transition towards a better future.

Author: Shunichi Takahashi