By focusing on the essentials in this article – such as;

• Key Considerations When Buying a Folding Electric Wheelchair
• Questions to Ask Before Buying an Electric Folding Wheelchair
• The Common Pitfalls to avoid

You can confidently choose a folding electric wheelchair that meets your needs. From lightweight electric wheelchairs for portability to large electric folding wheelchairs for added comfort, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and make a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come.

Start your journey today by researching reputable UK-based companies that specialise in folding electric wheelchairs. With the right preparation, you’ll find the perfect chair to enhance your mobility and independence.

Choosing the right folding electric wheelchair starts with understanding your specific needs, use case, and physical requirements. Not all wheelchairs are created equal, and even if they may look similar at first glance, each model offers unique features designed to suit different disabilities, use cases, or user preferences.

At Lith-Tech, we prioritise matching every customer with the ideal wheelchair. Whether you purchase online or over the phone, we provide a complimentary telephone consultation before shipping your wheelchair. This ensures the chair you select is tailored to your intended purpose, physical dimensions, and unique needs.

You can also use our comparison report to find out more about our range of folding electric wheelchairs

When buying a folding electric wheelchair, picking the right company is just as crucial as choosing the right chair. Your wheelchair isn’t just another gadget—it’s your lifeline. You need to trust the company not only when you’re making your purchase but, more importantly, for the aftercare and support that comes afterward.

Why Lith-Tech?

Since 2017, Lith-Tech has been the UK’s only specialist in Electric Folding Wheelchairs. We’re known for having the best products on the market and delivering unmatched customer service and aftercare.

The modern mobility industry can be intimidating, especially for elderly or vulnerable customers, so trust is everything. At Lith-Tech, we’re proud to be the highest-rated Electric Wheelchair Company in the UK across all major review platforms. We’ve been finalists for several mobility awards, and in 2023, our CEO Toby won the Best eMobility Chairs CEO in the UK award.

Buying from the wrong source can be a total disaster. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overseas Sellers
   Avoid buying from companies based overseas. They often lack local support, warranties, and the ability to provide spare parts or repairs.
2. Marketplace Platforms
   Stay away from Facebook Marketplace, Amazon, and eBay for wheelchairs. Most chairs on Facebook Marketplace don’t even exist or are outright faulty. On Amazon and eBay:
   • Sellers rarely have a physical company behind them.
   • You won’t be able to speak to anyone if something goes wrong.
   • Warranties are often non-existent or fake.
   • Spare parts and repair services are unavailable.
3. Second-Hand Chairs
   Buying second-hand might seem like a bargain, but it’s usually a nightmare. You won’t know the chair’s history, how it’s been maintained, or if it’s safe. Repairs can quickly make it more expensive than buying new—and you could be left stranded without support.

When buying a folding electric wheelchair, cutting corners might seem like a smart way to save money—but it will cost you far more in the long run. Here’s a blunt truth: you get what you pay for. If a company is selling a wheelchair for £900, they likely bought it for £400 (or less) after factoring in shipping, taxes, and margins. It’s impossible to build a quality wheelchair at that price point—to put it in perspective, that’s roughly the cost of just our motors or a pair of batteries.

The Pitfalls of Poor Choices

1. Avoid One-Size-Fits-All Sellers
   Stick with an actual specialist who offers a range of models to suit different needs and disabilities. Your local mobility shop might only stock 1–2 chairs and will often push them onto anyone who walks through the door—regardless of suitability.
2. Demand Warranties and Spare Parts
   Ask lots of questions about warranties, spare parts availability, and aftercare. Without these, you risk being stranded with a broken chair and no support.
3. Don’t Fixate on Weight Alone
   Many buyers obsess over lightweight chairs, but anything under 22kg is only suitable for indoor use or smooth, flat outdoor surfaces. For outdoor use, you need a multi-terrain wheelchair with larger wheels. These models typically weigh between 25kg and 40kg, and for good reason—they’re built for durability and performance.
4. Match the Chair to Your Size and Weight
   • If you weigh over 14 stone, a lightweight chair isn’t for you—you need a multi-terrain model designed for higher weight capacities.
   • Larger individuals require XL chairs for better support and comfort.
   • Taller users need chairs with higher cushions and telescopic footplates for proper ergonomics.
   • Shorter users benefit from adjustable footrests or chairs specifically designed for smaller frames.

Why a Specialist Matters

This is exactly why you should consult a specialist before making your purchase. Specialists understand the nuances of different models and how they cater to specific needs. They’ll ensure you get the right chair for your body type, lifestyle, and intended use—whether it’s a lightweight indoor model or a multi-terrain wheelchair.

Don’t gamble on your mobility. Make informed decisions and choose a wheelchair that truly supports your independence and daily life.

When purchasing an electric folding wheelchair, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure you’re making an informed decision. These questions will help you determine whether the chair and the company meet your specific needs, from mobility and terrain compatibility to warranty and after-sales support. Don’t shy away from being thorough—it’s your mobility on the line.

Important Questions to Ask

1. My wheelchair needs are [specific needs], what chair would you recommend for my needs, and why?
2. What range or distance can I expect from this chair’s batteries?
3. Can the batteries be charged both on and off the chair?
4. Are your batteries safe for air travel under current airline regulations?
5. How long does it take to fold and unfold the chair?
6. Can the chair be pushed in freewheel mode, both folded and unfolded?
7. What warranty comes with the chair, and what does it cover?
8. What happens if the chair stops working while under warranty?
9. Does your company have legitimate product liability insurance?
10. Are your chairs multi-terrain capable, and to what extent?
11. Do the armrests retract for easier access and better positioning under tables?
12. What is the expected delivery time if I purchase a chair?