What Is a Power Assist Device?
A power assist device adds electric motor assistance to a manual wheelchair. Instead of replacing your manual chair with a full power wheelchair, you add power to the chair you already love.
Think of it like an e-bike — you still push, but the motor amplifies your effort. Hills, long distances, carpet, and grass become manageable without exhausting yourself.
Why Choose Power Assist Over a Power Chair?
- Keep your custom-fitted manual chair — no need to switch to a bulky power chair
- Lighter than power wheelchairs — easier to transport
- Maintain upper body exercise — you still push, just with assistance
- Removable — take it off when you don’t need it
- Cost less — typically $2,000-$8,000 vs. $5,000-$25,000+ for power chairs
- Fits in cars — most fold or detach for transport
Types of Power Assist
Pushrim-Activated (Hub Motors)
Replace your wheelchair wheels with motorized hubs. When you push the rim, sensors detect your effort and the motor multiplies it. The harder you push, the more assist you get.
- Alber E-Motion: Lightweight, elegant, up to 3x force multiplication
- Alber Twion: Smart hub wheels with app control, regenerative braking
- Max Mobility SmartDrive: Single motor unit that mounts below the chair
Attachable Power Units
A motor unit that clips to the front or back of your wheelchair. Converts it to a hybrid manual/power chair.
- FreeWheel: Front caster attachment for off-road terrain
- Firefly: Electric handcycle attachment — turns your chair into a trike
- Batec: Handbike attachment with throttle control
Caregiver-Controlled
Motor assists the person pushing the wheelchair. Great for caregivers who push users up hills or over long distances.
- TGA Wheelchair Powerpack: Clips to the back, controlled by caregiver
- Rehasense EPAW: Electric push assist for attendants
Key Features to Compare
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Battery range | 10-25 km per charge (varies by terrain and user weight) |
| Weight | 3-12 kg per unit — lighter = easier to transport |
| Speed | Most cap at 6-10 km/h for safety |
| Compatibility | Check if it fits your wheelchair model and wheel size |
| Charge time | 2-6 hours for full charge |
| Control | Pushrim-activated, joystick, or app-controlled |
Who Benefits Most?
- Active manual chair users who want to go farther without fatigue
- People with shoulder pain from years of manual pushing
- Aging wheelchair users losing upper body strength
- Commuters who cover long distances daily
- Outdoor enthusiasts who want to handle trails and uneven terrain
Funding in Canada
Power assist devices may be covered by:
- Provincial assistive device programs (ADP in Ontario, SAIL in Quebec)
- Veterans Affairs Canada
- Private insurance (with OT assessment letter)
- WSIB / workplace injury claims
An occupational therapist assessment is usually required for funding approval.
Shop Power Assist at FinalMedic
Browse our power assist collection including SmartDrive, E-Motion, Firefly, and Rehasense products. All with free shipping across Canada.
Not sure which system fits your chair? Contact us at info@finalmedic.ca — we’ll help you find the right match.