The mobility device market is more crowded than ever, with a growing number of top manufacturers continuing to push out the latest and greatest in mobility technology each year. These devices run the gamut from heavy-duty mobility scooters to nimble and lightweight manual wheelchairs.
Recently, we’ve seen a spike in the popularity of one type of mobility device in particular: the foldable travel electric wheelchair. When you look at what these units have to offer, it’s easy to see why. They’re maneuverable, portable, and versatile, performing well in a variety of different environments and scenarios.
While each foldable power wheelchair has its own distinct benefits, it’s becoming increasingly rare to find one that truly stands out in terms of design, aesthetic, and performance. If you’re interested in a travel power chair that sets itself apart from the pack, look no further than the Model Fi from the award-winning team at WHILL.
The Model Fi is the first folding power chair from WHILL and was named a CES Best of Innovation Winner at the beginning of 2022. Today, we’ll take a look at some of the key features that help this innovative power chair get a leg up on its competitors.
Model Fi Product Specs
|
|
WHILL Model Fi |
| Foldable | Yes |
| App Connectivity | Yes |
| Colors | 5 – white, black, blue, red, green |
| Product Weight | 58.9 lb. |
| Weight Capacity | 250 lb. |
| Top Speed | 3.7 mph |
| Driving Range | Up to 12.4 miles |
| Turning Radius | 30.7” |
-
Foldable Design
When it comes to exploring the world with improved mobility and independence, a foldable design really makes all the difference. The WHILL Model Fi folds in less than three seconds and is designed to be transported on a train, bus, plane, or in the trunk of your vehicle. This makes it the perfect companion for everything from cross-country road trips to that once-in-a-lifetime vacation to Europe or Asia. When you’re not using the Model Fi you can quickly fold it up for storage in a closet or spare room.
-
Lightweight and Compact
Another important factor when choosing a power wheelchair for travel is the weight of the device. If you’re planning on adventuring around the world – or even just around your neighborhood – you’ll want a power chair that can be easily lifted into the back of a car, van, or taxi.
The WHILL Model Fi has an exceptionally low overall weight of only 52.9 pounds with the battery removed, while the battery itself weighs an additional 6 pounds. This is significantly less than traditional power wheelchairs, which often weigh up to 175 pounds or more and require ramps to be driven into the back of a truck or van.
-
Sleek and Modern Aesthetic
While the Model Fi Power Chair is specifically built to be lightweight and transportable, it also boasts one of the most elegant and recognizable designs in the entire personal mobility industry. Like previous WHILL models, which place an emphasis on combining technology with aesthetically pleasing design, the Model Fi isn’t afraid to stand out from its competitors.
It sports sleek arm covers and a refined, minimalist appearance, giving the chair a modern look that allows the person in the chair to shine, rather than the device itself. This is a far cry from the bulky designs of traditional wheelchairs, which many users find stifling and outdated.
-
Intelligent Technology
As mentioned above, WHILL personal electric vehicles really shine when it comes to marrying intelligent technology with stylish and functional designs. The WHILL app, which connects your Model Fi to a smartphone or tablet through Bluetooth, is a great example of this. You can use the WHILL app to view key usage data, unlock and lock the device, modify your speed settings, and even remotely drive the Model Fi.
Unlike many other mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, which rely on gel cell batteries, the WHILL Model Fi uses a lightweight lithium-Ion battery (25.3V 10.6 Ah) for improved performance and charging speed.
-
Customization Options
The WHILL Model Fi personal electric vehicle gives you a choice of five different color options: white, black, blue, red, and green. Pick the color that suits your personality best! It also has an interchangeable controller that can be positioned on either the right or left side depending on your preference.
-
Easy Maneuverability
Most manual wheelchairs need up to 78” to make a full 180-degree turn. However, this number is significantly less for modern electric wheelchairs and other compact powered mobility devices. In the case of the Model Fi, you need only a miniscule 30.7” to turn around.
This tight turning radius makes it much easier to maneuver around indoor spaces such as your home or office, which often contain cramped doorways and corridors.
Public spaces like stores, restrooms, and transportation can also be challenging to navigate in a standard wheelchair. The Model Fi makes traversing all of these places a breeze thanks to its short wheelbase and narrow width.
-
Exclusive Accessories
Unsurprisingly, the WHILL Model Fi is available with a wide range of optional accessories. These products can help to make life more convenient for the user or their caregiver. All of WHILL’s accessories are designed to complement the Model Fi’s appearance; So you don’t need to worry about losing that elegant, modern look.
Below is a list of accessories that are currently available for the Model Fi Power Chair:
- Smart Key
- Cane Holder
- Storage Basket
- Side Bag
- Lap Belt
- Joystick Controller
- Protective Dust Cover
- Arm Cover
- Additional Battery
- Additional Battery Charger
Summary
When it comes to portability, high-tech features, and attractive design, the WHILL Model Fi personal electric vehicle definitely shines. This foldable travel power chair allows users to explore the world around them with much greater confidence and independence. Every aspect of the Model Fi was designed with this goal in mind.
In short, the WHILL Model Fi is unlike any other folding travel power chair on the market. While some users may want a somewhat larger electric wheelchair (especially in terms of weight capacity); We believe the Model Fi is an excellent personal electric vehicle. That will give consumers the mobility and freedom they desire.
The WHILL Model Fi was released in spring of 2022 and is currently available; For order from many major mobility suppliers. Ready to learn more about the innovative Model Fi or other folding power chairs? Browse Scootaround’s online store or call 1-844-664-7467. We’ll be happy to answer all of your questions!