Views: 1 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-09-27 Origin: Site
Folding electric wheelchairs from China offer an affordable mobility solution for people with limited mobility. This comprehensive guide provides an overview of China folding electric wheelchairs, their key features, types, applications, specifications, suppliers, installation, usage, maintenance and more.
Folding electric wheelchairs made in China provide powered mobility at lower costs compared to major international brands. Key benefits of China folding electric wheelchairs include:
Affordable Pricing: Folding electric wheelchairs from China start at prices as low as $500 to $1000, making them more affordable than popular brands priced from $2000 upwards.
Foldable Design: The foldable design makes them portable and easy to transport in cars or on public transport.
Customizable Options: China manufacturers provide customization options for users like seat types, armrest types, leg rest types, drive wheel types, wheel sizes, seat dimensions, upholstery colors, etc.
Range of Features: Basic models have essential features like adjustable seats, folding frames, armrests and electric drive. Higher-end models add more features like powered seat functions, lights, Bluetooth controllers etc.
After-Sales Service: Many China manufacturers provide maintenance guides in English and offer spare parts supply along with video call support.
However, lower prices also mean some compromises in areas like brand reputation, warranty periods, proprietary spare parts, less sensitive controls, higher maintenance needs, etc. Proper supplier selection and maintenance is key to ensuring good quality over the long term.
China folding electric wheelchairs can be categorized into three main types based on their folding mechanism, frame material, and drive wheel type:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Mid Wheel Drive | Foldable frame separates into two halves with the drive wheels in the middle. Compact when folded but less stable. |
| Front Wheel Drive | Front casters separate from rear drive wheels. Larger footprint but better stability. |
| Frame Folding | Entire frame folds into one compact piece. Quickest folding but less rigid. |
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Aluminum Alloy Frame | Lightweight aircraft grade aluminum. Corrosion resistant but fractures on impact. |
| Steel Frame | Robust and heavy. Prone to rusting unless coated. |
| Titanium Frame | Lightweight and very strong but expensive. Low maintenance. |
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Rear Wheel Drive | Powered rear wheels. Gives good traction and stability. |
| Front Wheel Drive | Powered front casters. More compact turning radius. |
| Mid Wheel Drive | Powered center wheels. Balances turning radius and stability. |
So in summary, the main types of folding electric wheelchairs from China vary in their folding mechanism, frame material, and drive wheel configurations to suit different user requirements and budgets.
Folding electric wheelchairs made in China serve varied applications for personal mobility:
Indoor Mobility: The folding design makes them ideal for maneuvering indoors and in tight spaces at home or office.
Outdoor Mobility: Folding mechanism helps transporting the wheelchair for outdoor mobility needs. Some models have higher top speeds and range for outdoor use.
Travel Mobility: Compact folded size allows taking folding wheelchairs while traveling by cars, buses, trains or flights.
Part-time Use: For users who may be able to walk for short periods, a folding wheelchair allows switching between walking and sitting.
Senior Mobility: Folding electric wheelchairs meet elderly mobility needs for indoor/outdoor use while requiring less physical strength.
Bariatric Use: Some bariatric models support heavier weight capacities for larger users.
So in essence, China folding electric wheelchairs serve varied mobility needs - indoor or outdoor, personal or public use, part-time or full-time, standard or heavy duty.
China folding electric wheelchairs come in many configurations based on user needs and budget. Below is an overview of key specifications:
| Specification | Range |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 70 - 150 cm |
| Overall Width | 55 - 70 cm |
| Folded Length | 30 - 80 cm |
| Folded Width | 20 - 35 cm |
| Seat Width | 40 - 65 cm |
| Seat Depth | 40 - 60 cm |
| Armrest Height | 18 - 30 cm |
| Footrest Height | 30 - 50 cm |
| Type | Weight Limit |
|---|---|
| Standard | 100 - 150 kg |
| Heavy Duty | 150 - 250 kg |
| Extra Heavy Duty | 250 - 400 kg |
| Wheel Type | Size Range |
|---|---|
| Drive Wheels | 10 - 14 inches |
| Caster Wheels | 6 - 10 inches |
| Parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 6 - 15 km/h |
| Range Per Charge | 15 - 40 km |
| Type | Voltage | Charging Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Acid | 24V | 6 - 12 hours |
| Lithium Ion | 24V - 36V | 2 - 4 hours |
Aluminum Alloy
Stainless Steel
Carbon Steel
Titanium
China folding electric wheelchairs typically follow these design norms:
Rear, front or mid wheel drive configurations
Foldable frames with quick release latches
Swing away or detachable footrests
Flip-up armrests for side transfers
Mesh, vinyl or fabric upholstered seats
Seatbelts for safety
Flat free PU tires for maintenance free operation
LED lights and turn signals for visibility
Reinforced wheel bearings for weight capacity
Electromagnetic brakes for safety
Joystick or app controls for ease of use
Safety standards followed include:
ISO 7176 standards for wheelchairs
IPX4 rating for water resistance
CE certification for quality compliance
Customization options allow users to select:
Seat dimensions, styles and upholstery
Armrest types - fixed, flip-up, height adjustable
Leg rest types - swing away, detachable, elevating
Wheel types and sizes
Wheelchair colors
Assistive accessories
There are over a hundred electric wheelchair manufacturers in China producing folding models. Some reputed suppliers include:
| Company | Models | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Technologies | LiteRider, Buzzaround | $1200 - $2000 |
| Pride Mobility | Go-Chair, Jazzy Air | $2000 - $3500 |
| Hoveround | Compact, Passport | $2500 - $4000 |
| Company | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Keenso Medical | $600 - $1200 |
| Aidare Medical | $800 - $1500 |
| Karma Medical | $700 - $2000 |
When selecting a supplier, buyers should evaluate:
Product quality certifications
Warranty and after-sales service terms
Spare parts availability
Customization flexibility
Responsiveness and communication
Production capacity
Pricing and payment terms
Visiting trade shows like Medica or deals sites like Alibaba can help connect with major and ODM wheelchair suppliers in China.
Folding electric wheelchairs require some assembly and are easy to operate:
Attach seat to frame, secure with screws
Clip on armrests and footrests
Inflate tires to specified PSI
Connect batteries and control panel connectors
Fully charge batteries before first use
Flip down armrests and footrests
Rotate seat and transfer into chair
Fasten seatbelt for safety
Turn on power and check battery level
Use joystick to drive and steer
Adjust speed settings as needed
Use electromagnetic brakes for stopping
Flip up armrests and footrests for transfers
Rotate seat to get in/out of chair
Fold frame for transportation or storage
Routine maintenance keeps folding wheelchairs performing well:
Clean upholstery and frame with a damp cloth
Check tire treads and inflation monthly
Inspect wheel bearings and casters every 6 months
Keep batteries fully charged when not in use
Check connections and chargers for damage
Test brakes and controller settings regularly
Tighten loose bolts, nuts and fasteners when required
Replace worn out tires and upholstery when needed
Avoiding exposure to moisture and regular cleaning helps prevent rusting. Periodic lubrication of moving parts improves mobility.
Selecting the right folding electric wheelchair supplier in China requires close evaluation on four key aspects:
Product Quality
International quality certifications like ISO, CE
Use of high-grade materials like aircraft aluminum
Reputed brands and ODM suppliers
Advanced designs and features
Warranty and maintenance support terms
Customization
Range of model types and capacities
Material, wheel, seat and color customizations
Support for accessories and modifications
Flexibility for small order quantities
Pricing
Product prices aligned with features and quality
Shipping costs and import duties/taxes
Payment terms and financing options
Spare parts and maintenance pricing
Reliability
Market reputation and customer reviews
Responsiveness to inquiries and issues
English proficiency and communication
Production capacity and lead times
Professionalism and knowledge
Evaluating suppliers on these parameters can help buyers find high quality, customizable folding electric wheelchairs from China at affordable prices.
Folding wheelchairs from China offer benefits in pricing but have some limitations too:
Low purchase cost
Lightweight foldable design
Custom seating and sizing
Range of control options
Available in higher weight capacities
Reputable ODM suppliers
Value-added services like spare parts
Shorter warranty periods
Lesser sensitive controls
Potential reliability issues
Limited proprietary spare parts
Lack of local service support
Longer lead and shipping times
Communication barriers
The lower cost makes them ideal for users seeking an occasional mobility solution, or those on strict budgets. But users needing a full-time primary mobility device may prefer paying more for major brands with better service support.
This comparison table summarizes the key differences between major manufacturer brands and China ODM folding electric wheelchair models:
| Parameter | Major Brands | China ODMs |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $2000 - $4000 | $600 - $1500 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy | Steel/Aluminum Alloy |
| Range | 25 - 40 km | 15 - 30 km |
| Warranty Period | 2 - 5 years | 1 - 2 years |
| Electronics | Programmable controls | Standard controls |
| Batteries | Lithium-ion | Lead Acid/Lithium-ion |
| Service Support | Extensive network | Limited local support |
| Customization | Limited options | Highly customizable |
| Lead Time | 2 - 4 weeks | 4 - 8 weeks |
While major brands provide better performance and service support, China ODM wheelchairs offer affordability and customizability within capability trade-offs.
This buying guide provides tips for purchasing folding electric wheelchairs from China:
1. Evaluate Needs
Consider intended usage (indoor/outdoor), required range, weight capacity, required features (lights, Bluetooth controls etc).
2. Research Brands and Models
Check out leading ODM wheelchair manufacturers in China and shortlist models that match needs and budget.
3. Contact Suppliers
Reach out to suppliers via Alibaba RFQs or trade portals. Ask about pricing, customization scope, delivery times, quality checks and shipping options.
4. Review Samples and Certifications
Ask suppliers to share video demonstrations, test samples, and quality certification documents.
5. Place Order
Place order for required model, quantity, customizations, and accessories. Get order acknowledgment.
6. Inspect Goods & Clear Customs
Inspect received wheelchairs thoroughly for damage. Clear customs, pay import duties as applicable.
7. Test Unit & Provide Feedback
Test wheelchair, charger, controls thoroughly. Provide feedback to supplier on any issues noted.
8. Arrange Service Support
Discuss preventive maintenance needs and spare parts supply with supplier. Have a video call walkthrough if required.
A: Quality can vary across suppliers. Choosing reputed ODMs, reviewing certifications, inspecting samples and testing pre-shipment can help ensure satisfactory quality and safety.
A: Detach or fold down the footrests. Fold the frame and place the wheelchair in car rear trunk or backseat. Secure it with straps or cargo hooks.
A: Airline policies may restrict transporting wet lead-acid batteries. Lithium batteries up to 300Wh rating can be taken as carry-on baggage. Check airline policies.
A: Basic cleaning and lubrication every few months. Periodic inspection of tires, wheel bearings, connections for wear and tear. Replacement of parts like batteries every few years.
A: Loose bolts causing rattling, battery issues, wear and tear of tires/bearings, rusting of frames if exposed to moisture, damages to wiring and controls.
A: Consider seat width relative to hip width, seat depth relative to leg length, and armrest/footrest heights based on user anatomy.
A: Yes, select suppliers offer heavy duty models supporting weight capacities up to 400 pounds. But frames may fold to a bigger size.
A: Some China wheelchair suppliers do offer financing partnerships. Monthly rentals or medical insurance coverage are other options to consider.
In summary, China folding electric wheelchairs provide an economical solution for meeting standard and heavy duty mobility needs both indoors and outdoors. Sourcing from quality ODM suppliers, conducting due diligence on product certifications and after-sales support, and proper maintenance helps realize their benefits fully. With appropriate expectations on quality and service aspects, buyers can find China folding electric wheelchairs to be worthwhile investments for many users and applications.
