Phoenix i

[slomobile]

https://www.phoenixinstinct.com/phoenix-i-wheelchair

Permanent power assist built into a carbon/kevlar chair.

Has anyone seen one? Tried one?

Made in Scotland.

[Burgerman]

Saw one online only never tried one.

Powered tiny front casters.

They like to pretend the tiny wheels run over small stones etc without jamming up like most manual chairs. And WHILE POWERED up thats true to an extent. Note that the only small rock they show is carefully anged like a ramp facing the chair. Very carefully designed bit of film. How many times did they do it before it went according to plan. Because if yu are NOT pushing at the time theres no positive power applied. If going down a gradient as you do 50% of the time or if slowing or coasting then it will jam up exactly as before.

And...

Exactly how long will a tiny motor and a 2 inch tyre last in the world of concrete and rough surfaces?
I estimate about a week if you are careful.

So I am a little unconvinced.
Actualy I am unconvinced that a manual chair or the style of a manual chair is even a good idea at all.
Powering one just seems to be huge compromise better spent on a real powerchair. At least for anyone needing a chair full time like me. Manual style chairs even power assisted are uncomfortable, harsh, unstable etc and dont have the capability to do half a much
Looks like a well engineered chair that has sort of missed the point. Front assist on any of my manual chair wouldnt work as they are tippy. As I push they lift the front so I am balanced. I would need to make them nose heavy (er) and less optimised to be able to use that to help power them.

Thats not to say it wont suit some users or places. Just not very many.