【Latest in 2026】Top 8 Recommended Electric Wheelchair Manufacturers! Comprehensive Guide on Prices and Subsidies for Purchase

Electric wheelchairs that can be used by individuals with disabilities in both the lower and upper body. Although they are commonly referred to as electric wheelchairs, there are various types and models available from numerous manufacturers.

In this article, we will explain electric wheelchairs and introduce recommended manufacturers, prices, and subsidy programs available when purchasing!

1. What is an Electric Wheelchair?

An electric wheelchair is a wheelchair equipped with four wheels, powered by an electric motor. Since it operates via a motor and does not require self-propulsion, it can be used by individuals with upper body disabilities such as paralysis.

Operation is performed using a joystick lever located at hand. It allows for forward, backward, and lateral movements, enabling smooth navigation even in confined indoor spaces. Many models are foldable, making them easy to carry and convenient for outings.

Often confused with electric wheelchairs are senior cars (electric carts). Senior cars are three or four-wheeled vehicles with handlebars similar to scooters.

They are operated using handlebars and an accelerator lever like a scooter. Depending on the model and conditions, senior cars often have a longer continuous travel distance than electric wheelchairs and are frequently used outdoors, making them suitable for long-distance travel.

However, due to their limited maneuverability, they are challenging to use indoors, and entry may be denied in stores with narrow aisles.

The price of electric wheelchairs varies based on the features equipped, ranging from approximately 100,000 to over 1,000,000 yen. Similarly, senior cars range from the low 100,000s to the 400,000s in price.

Decide which to use based on your purpose and physical condition.

2. Types of Electric Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs are categorized into two types: "self-operating" for users who can operate them independently and "assisted" for those who require assistance. Let's explain each.

2-1. Self-Operating Electric Wheelchairs

Self-operating electric wheelchairs are further divided into standard and simplified types.

2-2. Assisted Electric Wheelchairs

Assisted electric wheelchairs require a caregiver's assistance. They feature power assist for uphill climbs and brakes for downhill descents, reducing the burden on the caregiver when operating the wheelchair.

Decide which type to use based on your physical condition, living environment, and range of activities.

3. Introducing Electric Wheelchairs with the Latest Trends!

3-1. LIFEHUB Corporation

3-2. AirWheel

3-3. Sunrise Medical Japan Co., Ltd.

4. Top 8 Recommended Electric Wheelchair Manufacturers

4-1. Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

With the slogan "Go where you want, when you want," Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. began developing electric wheelchairs in 1989, starting test sales in 1995, and officially launching sales in 1996.

They have received prestigious awards such as the "Nikkei BP Technology Award in the Medical Division" and the "METI Mellow Grand Prix Best Award" and continue to develop and sell electric wheelchairs.

Many wheelchairs are custom-designed and manufactured to fit the user's physique, physical condition, and living environment. Yamaha's JW series allows for the electrification of custom-made wheelchairs by simply replacing the drive wheels.

They also sell electric wheelchairs that do not require customization, catering to those who do not need custom-made options or for use in care facilities.

Additionally, Yamaha offers original products like spoke covers for wheelchair wheels, pressure sore prevention cushions, and body covers.

Reference: Electric Wheelchairs｜Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

4-2. Permobil Corporation

Founded in Sweden, Permobil Corporation has been a leading company in electric wheelchairs for over 50 years, now operating in over 70 countries. It is said that the renowned physicist, the late Dr. Hawking, was also a user.

They pioneered "seating solutions" technology, which allows for the adjustment of various parts such as seats and backrests to ensure proper posture for those who sit for extended periods, based on solid medical and caregiving evidence.

They have also advanced research in "mobility solutions" technology, enabling safe and comfortable movement. Permobil entered the Japanese market in 2003 and continues to sell electric wheelchairs.

In addition to electric wheelchairs, they offer a wide range of products, including assistive devices, electronic cushion monitoring systems, and back support cushions.

They also provide electric wheelchair rentals, and their website offers a diagnosis of public funding systems available to users.

User testimonials from those who have used Permobil products are also available, so be sure to check their website.

Reference: Permobil Corporation

4-3. WHILL Corporation

Established in Japan in 2012, WHILL Corporation aims to "make mobility enjoyable and smart for everyone," offering various solutions for both individuals and businesses.

For individuals, they sell scooters, high-design folding electric wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs that can easily handle 5cm steps, and offer rentals of these products.

For businesses, they provide "autonomous taxi services," which automate and robotize wheelchair-pushing services for those with walking difficulties, targeting hospitals and airports.

Electric wheelchairs can be test-driven at stores nationwide, so if you're interested, please check their website. (Note that some prefectures may not have stores, so please confirm on the website beforehand if you wish to test drive.)

Reference: WHILL Corporation

4-4. Abilities Care Net Inc.

Founded in 1966, the Japan Abilities Company (now Abilities Care Net Inc.) was established primarily for individuals with disabilities. In 1978, it was recognized by the Ministry of Labor (now the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare) as Japan's first business employing a large number of individuals with severe disabilities.

The founder, Hiroyasu Ito, was reportedly rejected by over 100 companies for employment due to his physical disability. This experience led him to establish the Japan Abilities Company, working towards the "Abilities Movement" to achieve independent living and social participation for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

Since 1972, they have partnered with top manufacturers in various countries to develop, sell, and rent welfare equipment, continuing these operations today.

Their partner, Sunrise Medical, is headquartered in Germany and is a world-leading manufacturer providing a wide range of mobility products and seating solutions for individuals with severe disabilities and active disabilities (including children) in most major countries worldwide.

From everyday to sports wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs, they are used by top para-sports athletes and individuals with disabilities worldwide.

Abilities Care Net Inc. handles electric wheelchairs from both Sunrise Medical and the aforementioned Permobil.

They offer a diverse lineup of electric wheelchairs, including standing electric wheelchairs that allow users to maintain a standing position and active electric wheelchairs suitable for outdoor use.

They also sell nursing care products and rehabilitation equipment, so be sure to check their website.

Reference: Electric Wheelchairs｜Abilities Care Net Inc.

4-5. Imasen Engineering Corporation

Imasen Engineering Corporation is a comprehensive welfare equipment manufacturer and research and development institution engaged in the research, development, manufacturing, and sales of electric wheelchairs and skeletal structure prosthetic legs.

They are known for selling Japan's first electric wheelchair in 1971.

In addition to standard electric wheelchairs, they offer various types, including electric tilt models that allow wheelchair users to tilt their seating position,

electric lift models that adjust the user's eye level, and electric reclining models for safe reclining.

In addition to electric wheelchairs, they produce prosthetics and walking aids, delivering products that suit the Japanese lifestyle with Made in Japan quality.

Reference: Electric Wheelchairs｜Imasen Engineering Corporation

4-6. Nissin Medical Equipment Co., Ltd.

Established in 1964, Nissin Medical Equipment Co., Ltd. began selling wheelchairs in 1965. In 1999, they became the first domestic wheelchair manufacturer to register for the "International Quality Standard (ISO9001)".

They also manufacture and sell sports wheelchairs, providing them to numerous athletes.

Their electric wheelchairs include the "NEO-PR," which can be folded in two parts, the "Karu-e" assisted electric wheelchair, and the "NAH-UC Electric," which allows users to operate tilt and recline functions, offering various innovative products.

Reference: Electric Wheelchairs｜Nissin Medical Equipment Co., Ltd.

4-7. Showa Trading Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1877 with a focus on the pharmaceutical business, Showa Trading Co., Ltd. now handles products in various fields, including "packaging," "food," and "overseas brands."

Electric wheelchairs are handled under the "healthcare field," and they sell Invacare products.

Invacare, headquartered in Elyria, Ohio, USA, was founded in 1885 as a specialized welfare equipment manufacturer.

Showa Trading Co., Ltd. offers four products, with two of them allowing further selection between standard, electric tilt, and electric reclining models.

Among them, the "AVIVA RX" series is compact, with a total width of 56cm, and features excellent drivability and functionality with a new motor and suspension. Although expensive, it seems well worth the investment.

Reference: Electric Wheelchair Dedicated Page｜Showa Trading Co., Ltd.

4-8. XSTO Co., Ltd.

Known as a leading company in the electric transport vehicle industry, XSTO Co., Ltd. exports all-terrain electric wheelchairs and electric stair transport carts to 70 countries worldwide.

XSTO products are highly regarded and implemented by major companies.

Their independently developed M4 electric wheelchair features an automatic balance function, maintaining a parallel state even on inclines and declines.

Additionally, the seat height can be easily adjusted from 535mm to 730mm to suit personal preferences. It is foldable and can be easily disassembled for transportation in a car.

Furthermore, the M4 electric wheelchair can be operated via a smartphone app, allowing for remote control.

Its design is simple and unobtrusive, differing from the typical wheelchair image, which is a bonus for users.

Reference: M4 Electric Wheelchair｜Nippon Mirai World Co., Ltd.

As introduced, electric wheelchairs are available from many manufacturers. Choosing the right electric wheelchair involves considering the desired features and lifestyle needs. For example, if you frequently travel, the electric wheelchair from "LIFEHUB Corporation," which creates its own barrier-free paths, is recommended. For those who enjoy customization and style, "Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd." electric wheelchairs are perfect. If you live in a hilly area, consider the powerful electric wheelchairs from "XSTO Co., Ltd." For those planning to use cars or taxis, the compact models from "Showa Trading Co., Ltd." are ideal. Of course, selecting one that suits your body is fundamental, but considering your purpose and lifestyle makes the choice easier.

5.[Bonus] Adding Electric Assist Features to Manual Wheelchairs

Recently, many devices have emerged that can retrofit assist features to manual wheelchairs. It might be worthwhile to consider incorporating such products as needed. Here are three driving assist devices that can be retrofitted to manual wheelchairs.

5-1. E-KO Assist Drive

5-3. MIJO

Unlike the two devices mentioned earlier, MIJO is an electric assist unit that attaches to the front of the wheelchair. It is cost-effective compared to other electric assist products, priced at 198,000 yen (tax included), making it easy to adopt. It comes with a one-year free repair warranty, ensuring a well-established maintenance system after purchase.

Reference:Manual Wheelchair Electric Assist MIJO -｜【Niko Drive】Manual Transport Assist Device

6. Is It More Cost-Effective to Buy or Rent a Wheelchair?

Many businesses offer electric wheelchair rentals, so you might be wondering whether renting or purchasing is more cost-effective.
In conclusion, which is more cost-effective depends on the "duration of use".

Below is a table comparing the differences between renting using long-term care insurance and purchasing with the assistive device cost subsidy system.

	Long-term Care Insurance (Rental)	Assistive Device Cost Subsidy System (Purchase)
Eligible Individuals	Individuals with care level 2 or higher	Individuals with a disability certificate
Cost	Monthly fee of a few hundred to a few thousand yen	Initial cost incurred (subsidy available based on income)
Advantages	Low cost usage, and you can easily switch to another wheelchair if your physical condition changes	Low cost for long-term use. Custom-made to fit your body
Recommended For	Short to medium-term use. Physical condition is prone to change	Long-term use. If physical condition changes, reapplication is required, which takes time

The selling price of electric wheelchairs ranges from approximately 100,000 to over 1,000,000 yen. When renting using long-term care insurance, the monthly fee is typically a few thousand yen, significantly reducing initial costs. However, over 15 or 20 years, the total amount paid becomes quite high. On the other hand, when purchasing using the assistive device cost subsidy system, any amount exceeding the subsidy is paid out-of-pocket. Choosing an expensive electric wheelchair increases initial costs. However, for long-term use, this option may be more cost-effective. It's not about which is better or worse, as it varies based on income and values. It's essential to carefully consider whether to rent or purchase beforehand.

7. Five Points to Consider When Choosing an Electric Wheelchair

7-1. Is It Designed to Fit the User's Body?

Choosing an electric wheelchair that suits the user's physical condition is crucial. Consider the user's care level, seating ability, and the caregiver's body size.

Check the features and size needed, and select one that fits you.

7-2. What Is the Primary Use?

Whether you use it indoors or outdoors affects the type of electric wheelchair you choose.

If primarily used for outdoor travel, a slightly larger size won't be inconvenient. Instead, check features like the ability to overcome steps.

If you want to use it indoors, choose a size that allows for easy maneuverability.

7-3. Is It Foldable?

Some electric wheelchairs are foldable, while others are not. Foldable models make transportation easier and lower the barrier to going out.

However, foldable models may have limited features, so ensure it has the necessary functions.

7-4. Does It Have Reclining or Tilt Features?

Reclining and tilt features are essential for wheelchair users.

These features in electric wheelchairs offer the following benefits:

• Reduce physical strain from prolonged sitting.
• Prevent back and pressure sores.
• Distribute pressure on the back and waist, reducing muscle tension needed to maintain posture.
• Allow for rest and sleep even when outdoors.
• Enable mobility for bedridden users.

Choose a model with reclining or tilt features that suit your physical condition, living environment, and usage scenarios.

7-5. Size of Each Part

The specifications of an electric wheelchair are determined by the user's body size, including the seat and backrest dimensions.

The seat width should have about 3-5cm of space beyond the hip width, and the depth should allow for about three fingers' width between the back of the knee and the seat edge for stability.

For height, the seat should allow the knees to bend at 90 degrees when the feet are on the footrest, and the backrest should align with the armpit height for comfortable seating. Choose the seat cushion and backrest flexibility based on the user's spine and pelvis curvature.

However, these values are merely guidelines, so try different models to find the one that fits you best.

Additionally, some disabilities may not fit existing electric wheelchair sizes. In such cases, adjustments can be made by a contractor to fit your body size.

We also introduce contractors on our platform, so please check the article below.

Reference:

8. Subsidies for Purchasing Electric Wheelchairs