Power wheelchairs have been around since the early 20th century, and have made life easier for many people living with disabilities. Power wheelchairs allow for more mobility, especially for children, many lacking the strength, coordination, or limbs to move a manual wheelchair. Power wheelchairs are also able to go where manual chairs cannot, such as grassy fields, inclines, or rough terrain. Unfortunately, power wheelchairs are more expensive than manually operated chairs. Today, many power wheelchairs allow children to use the same chair throughout childhood, thanks to modern design features, such as interchangeable seating and electronics.
Bime Wizzybug
As described by Bime, the Wizzybug is a fun, toy-like design that is a tough, practical vehicle in the home or the yard. It is front wheel drive with puncture-proof tires. A rechargeable battery powers the Wizzybug, which has an 8-kilometer range. It has adjustable seating with memory foam for comfort and support. Control is through a joystick, with an armrest provided for comfort. The Wizzybug can handle a 10-degree incline as well as wet conditions, such as rain, or wet grass, and has an approximate retail price of $4,343 for 2010.
Chairman Koala Mini-flex
The Chairman Koala Mini-Flex is a power wheelchair designed for use by toddlers through teenagers. The unit has a front-wheel-drive design using the same motor as larger adult models, but scaled down to size. The Mini-Flex has a maximum speed of 4 mph, and can travel up to 24 miles on a single charge. The seat can recline, with 45 degrees of power tilt adjustability. The wheelchair weighs 275 pounds, and can handle a rider of up to 110 pounds. A remote attachment allows parents to stop it. The seat elevation feature allows the chair to reach 8 feet for greater accessibility for the user. The Koala Mini-Flex has an estimated retail price of $7,995 for 2010.
Pride Mobility Q600
Pride Mobility states the Q-600 power wheelchair for children is powerful enough for the playground, and refined enough for everywhere else. The maximum speed of the mid-wheel drive Q-600 is 6 mph, with a range of 20 miles on a single charge. The Q-600 weighs 129 pounds, powered by two 12-volt batteries. The weight capacity is 300 pounds, making this a suitable unit for older, larger children. The Q-600 has multi-terrain capability and high maneuverability. You can change and upgrade the seating and electronics as the child grows. The approximate retail price of the Q600 is $5,908 as of 2010.
