What are the different kinds of motorised wheelchairs?

by Warren Chew
(Singapore)

Motorised wheelchairs are typically classified into 3 major types: the Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD), Mid-Wheel-Drive (FWD) (aka Center-Wheel-Drive or CWD) and Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD). This method of classification is based on the position of the drive wheels, which are attached to motors, giving the wheelchair its propelling power.

If the rear wheels are the drive wheels, the wheelchair is RWD; if the drive wheels are located in front, then it is a FWD motorised wheelchair. MWD electric wheelchairs are 6-wheelers, and as the name suggests, use the centre two wheels to provide the propelling power.

It is easy to differentiate between these 3 types of motorised wheelchairs because the drive wheels are typically the biggest wheels on the wheelchair.

RWD motorised wheelchairs are by far the most common in Singapore, mainly because they are more affordable. These versatile machines, and if equipped with front castor wheels 8" x 1.75" (diameter x width) or bigger, are also able to enter the MRT, provided the right technique is used.

But in some situations, users prefer MWD motorised wheelchairs because they are the most maneouverable, especially in confined spaces such as houses and offices. Among the 3 types, MWD wheelchairs are also the most stable because they have 6 wheels instead of 4, so they are excellent for handling rough terrain. The problem with most MWD power wheelchairs in the Singapore market is that the front and rear wheels are typically only 6" in diameter, which is too small for handling the MRT.

FWD motorised chairs are the best in terms of kerb-climbing ability. So if you are worried about getting your front castor wheels stuck in the gap when entering the MRT train, a FWD chair may be the best option for you.

So how do you decide which is the best for you? In the Singapore context, I suggest the following guidelines:

1. If you are unsure, or if this is your first electric wheelchair, just go for a RWD motorised wheelchair.
   
   
2. If you've already had a RWD wheelchair before and find that you need something even more maneuverable in tight spaces, then change to a MWD wheelchair.
   
   
3. If your main pain is fear of getting stuck when entering MRT trains, then a FWD power wheelchair may be the best choice. But be prepared to pay more for it!
   

Submit an online enquiry now to find out about our range of motorised wheelchairs or arrange for a complimentary test drive!