Automatic and self-folding mobility scooters are becoming a favourite among those that already rely on the use of a more traditional form of mobility scooter. Small, nicely portable, and almost entirely effortless when folding away, the folding mobility scooter represents an all-around solution that allows users to travel independently.
The automatic folding mobility scooter and self-folding mobility scooter are both excellent solutions if you wish to travel relatively short distances on a regular basis. The compact design means that they can easily be stored inside a car boot, on a train, or even on a plane.
So, why have mobility scooters become so popular in recent times?
The Benefits of Folding Mobility Scooters
The really good thing about folding mobility scooters? They easily fold up – either manually or automatically, and it only takes a matter of a few seconds. That means they are easily stored inside a home closet, a relatively small cupboard, or even in your hallway. 
Ideally, you’ll want to keep your mobility scooter undercover where it’s out of the rain and completely safe from thieves.
Of course, not everyone has access to a shed or a garage. Nevertheless, a folding scooter can easily be stored in a hallway without it becoming an obstacle.
After it’s folded, your scooter will fit inside a car boot, making it the perfect solution when you’re heading out for a trip to the beach, park, or to visit family or friends.
In turn, you have perfect freedom to travel independently and much farther afield, given that no one has to invest the physical effort into pushing you around. Folding mobility scooters, be they automatically folding or self-folding offer you a comfortable, reliable, and highly convenient solution if you’re often away from home.
Lightweight Mobility Scooters
There’s a race right now among the manufacturers of self-folding mobility scooters to make lighter and lighter scooters.
At the moment, the majority of folding scooters weigh about 25 kg. It’s not a whole lot. But it is too heavy for many users to lift without help.
As technology advances, frame construction materials have moved from steel, to aluminium, and now to carbon fibre. So, while the frames are still durable and strong, they are also now lightweight.
Among the heaviest components that are used in a mobility scooter is, of course, the battery. Nevertheless, these days, the use of lithium-ion rechargeable batteries means that there are good weight savings made. Not only are the batteries lightweight, but they also perform terrifically well with an impressive mileage range of around 10 miles on a single charge.
Self-Folding Mobility Scooter vs Automatic Mobility Folding Scooter
Folding scooters feature one of two different folding mechanisms, those being manua
l folding and automatic folding.
For individuals that opt for an automatic folding model, it simply requires the press of a single button which is located either on the dashboard of the scooter or on a remote control device. After pressing the button, the scooter folds up within a matter of a few seconds. It’s, without doubt, the most convenient option and is ideal for people that have little dexterity or strength.
On the other hand, for those that opt for a manual folding scooter, the scooter must be folded by the user or by someone else that’s on hand. Folding the scooter does not call for much strength. To begin the process, the seat backrest is folded away. After which, a footplate-located handle is pulled upwards and this folds the entire scooter by manoeuvring the two ends towards one another. Then, a small lever located on the steering column is loosened so that the handles can be lowered – and voila!
It’s not a complex process by any means, but it may not be entirely suitable for the desires and requirements of every user.
For some, manually folding a scooter can be a real physical challenge. In this case, the auto-folding scooter is a much more suitable alternative.
It’s also worthy of mention that there are some folding scooters that may be further broken down into separate parts. If space is a major concern, then this option could prove to be the perfect solution.
A Remote Control Makes Life Even Easier
Having a remote control will make folding your scooter even easier – it’s as simple as pressing a single button.
With a remote control device, there’s no leaning over the scooter in order to reach the control panel and then activate the folding mechanism.
Perhaps more importantly, with a remote control device, you do not have to bend over and reach down to your scooter when it’s in a folded-down position. Instead, you simply click the button on the remote and your scooter comes to life in an instant!
Help Us Help You
We hope our complete guide to buying an automatic or self folding mobility scooter has helped you understand your options.
Mobility scooters greatly increase your quality of life and can help you to regain the independence and confidence that may be lost due to mobility difficulties. They are a significant investment, and so it is important that you make a purchase in full confidence.
If you require further advice about a home stairlift, we have a wealth of expertise in all kinds of mobility solutions, so please feel free to get in touch.
You can complete our online form, and a member of our friendly, customer-focused team will get back to you swiftly.
In the meantime, be sure to take a look at our extensive collection of mobility solutions. And if you are interested in reading more informative articles about mobility solutions, our resource page is the best place to start.
