Finding Your Folding Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are created for people who have a lowered mobility or insufficient strength to walk for a long time. A mobility scooter makes it possible to move from one place to another whether it is outdoors or indoors. This gives autonomy and independence to people who would otherwise have to rely on others for mobility.
How does a foldable scooter differ from others?A folding mobility scooter is designed to be easily transported in cars or put into storage when it is folded. The lightweight construction and compact size of these scooters allow them to be transported through airplanes as well. Air transportation is also affected by the type of battery powering the scooter. Sealed-lead acid, lithium, and nickel-metal hydride batteries are allowed for air travel. Larger lithium batteries above 25 grams of Equivalent Lithium Content are not allowed.
Where can folding mobility scooters be used?Foldable mobility scooters can be used in certain terrains and conditions. Because of their light weight, they may not function as well on snow and mud, steep hills, or tall grass. They are ideal for flat and dry surfaces. Patches of land that are covered with short cut grass and soft inclines are also well-suited for these scooters. They are fine for going shopping. Some models can be lifted on curbs and up to two stairs.
Power potential of folding mobility scootersUnlike heavy scooters, foldable models have lower power levels. The maximum speed this scooter can run at is usually 5 miles per hour. There are scooters that can move at a range of 5 to 8 miles per hour, some that can move between 8 1/2 to 10 miles per hour, and those that move at speeds of more than 10 mph. This is greatly dependent on the weight of the person and the terrain. Models can also have different distance coverage with a fully charged battery. These values can range between 13 and 20 kilometers. Steep terrains and grass can lower battery life faster than smooth terrain. The scooters are usually powered by a single or double 10V or 12V battery stored inside the scooter. The batteries can be any of the following types:
- Nickel-metal hydride
- Lithium
- Sealed lead acid
Lithium batteries are the most energy dense and provide a greater source of power from a single battery. That is why scooters powered this way have only a single battery, making the scooter even lighter.