The United Kingdom Electric Wheelchair Market is estimated to be valued at USD 451.0 Mn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 901.4 Mn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.40% from 2024 to 2031.

Demand for electric wheelchairs is growing steadily owing to rising obesity, geriatric population and the increasing incidence of road accidents in the country.

Market Driver – Increasing Geriatric Population

The growing ageing population in the United Kingdom is one of the major factors that is expected to drive the growth of the electric wheelchair market in the coming years. According to the estimates by the Office for National Statistics, the share of population aged 65 years and above in the total population is projected to increase from 18.2% in 2020 to 21.5% by 2030, which means that around 1 in 4 people will be aged 65 years or older in UK. As mobility issues are quite common among the senior citizens, the rising geriatric base will certainly boost the demand for mobility aids like electric wheelchairs.

Electric wheelchairs offer independence and enhanced quality of life to seniors with limited mobility. They allow users to navigate both indoor and outdoor environments with convenience. Various modern electric wheelchairs also come equipped with additional features such as cup holders, leg rests, anti-tip wheels, and power elevating seats which provide added comfort. The variety of available models allows users to select chairs tailored to their medical needs, physical capabilities and lifestyle.

Market Driver – Healthcare Investments Focused on Geriatric Population and Unmet Needs

The changing demographics of the United Kingdom is a major factor driving the growth of electric wheelchair market in the country. The population aged 65 years and above is increasing rapidly in the UK. According to Office of National Statistics, the number of people aged 65 years and above is projected to grow by over 50% in the next two decades. This substantial rise in the geriatric population is expected to increase the demand for mobility assistance devices like electric wheelchairs.

The healthcare needs of the rapidly expanding elderly population are also becoming more complex. Age-related disabilities like limited mobility due to arthritis, knee or hip replacement surgeries are quite common among the senior citizens. More and more older adults are also diagnosed with neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis that make movement increasingly difficult. As per the Multiple Sclerosis Society report, there were over 127,000 MS patients in the UK in 2020.

In addition, advancements in electric wheelchair technologies are also fueling their adoption. Lightweight frames, longer battery life, easy maneuverability and customized features as per needs have made electric wheelchairs more practical and user-friendly.

Market Challenge – Frequent Product Recalls

Frequent product recalls have emerged as a major challenge restraining the growth of United Kingdom electric wheelchair market. Wheelchair users rely on these products to maintain their mobility and independence. However, recurring safety issues have eroded users' trust in some brands. According to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), there were 32 voluntary recalls of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters in 2020 alone (MHRA, 2021).

The reasons for these recalls ranged from battery faults to problems with the braking system. Battery issues pose a serious risk as defective lithium-ion batteries can overheat and even catch fire. A malfunctioning braking system also jeopardizes user safety, especially on sloping surfaces or roads with fast moving traffic. Such widespread recalls undermine users' confidence in the reliability and durability of electric wheelchairs. Many are hesitant to invest thousands of pounds in a device that may need to be returned or replaced within months due to latent defects.

The negative perception generated by frequent recalls is proving to be a long-term drag on market demand. While new product launches continue to expand overall product offerings, users remain wary of quality glitches and post-purchase service issues.

Market Opportunity – Innovations in Electrical Wheelchair

Innovations in electrical wheelchairs present a tremendous opportunity in the growing United Kingdom electric wheelchair market. With an aging population and rising disability rates, the need for advanced mobility solutions is surging. New battery and motor technologies are allowing electric wheelchairs to travel further distances and perform activities previously not possible, improving quality of life for thousands.

Advanced designs featuring lighter frames, intuitive controls, and customized accessories aimed at specific conditions are expanding who can benefit from powered mobility. Wheelchairs are becoming more responsive to subtle movements, allowing for more independent living. Folding and transportable models make electric wheelchairs a practical option for an increasingly mobile society. These innovations are opening electric wheelchairs to a much wider segment of the disabled community who may not have considered them in the past.

Sensors, mapping capabilities, and connectivity features are also leading the way towards more autonomous wheelchairs. Some prototypes now use artificial intelligence to navigate environments and avoid obstacles without constant manual control. The UK government has recognized these trends, pledging over £300 million annually towards assistive technology research and development programs through 2025 according to the UK Research and Innovation organization.

Insights, By Modality: Simple Yet Effective Design of Rear Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchair

The rear wheel drive electric wheelchair contributes the highest share of 31% in the United Kingdom electric wheelchair market in terms of modality due to its simple yet effective design. Rear wheel drive configurations have long been the standard for powered wheelchairs as they provide stable movement and allow for smooth turns. Comparatively easy to manufacture, rear wheel drive models tend to be more affordable options for consumers.

Their popularity is also attributed to the minimal maintenance and repair needs. With the motor and gears located only in the rear wheels, these electric wheelchairs have fewer moving parts that can develop issues. Basic troubleshooting and replacement of rear wheels or tires is generally straightforward for users. The integrated design makes rear wheel drive electric wheelchairs user-friendly without constant technical assistance.

From an operational standpoint, rear wheel drive configurations offer predictable handling qualities. Users can intuitively steer these chairs in the direction they lean, a directness favored by both newcomers and experienced electric wheelchair riders. Requirements for physical strength and dexterity are lessened with simplified rear-wheel controls. This empowers people with reduced mobility to confidently navigate varied environments.

Insights, By Age Group: Advanced Age Brings an Elevated Risk for Injuries From Falls

The more than 60 years sub-segment makes up the largest share of 45.5% electric wheelchair users in the UK market. Advanced age often brings weakened muscles, reduced stamina and an elevated risk for injuries from falls. Electric mobility tools can significantly improve the quality of life for senior citizens facing mobility limitations.

Compared to younger demographics, the over 60 population has a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions affecting mobility like arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Long-term wear and tear on joints from decades of regular use puts the body under increased strain. Powered wheelchairs alleviate this burden by automating movement.

Additionally, sensory changes common with aging like diminished vision and hearing acuity can compromise safety during ambulation. Electric wheelchairs counterbalance this by providing stable, consistent transportation at a preset speed. Users are less likely to lose their balance or misstep when navigating public spaces.

Emotional well-being is as important as physical health for seniors. Electric wheelchairs empower independent access to favorite social activities and communities. This maintains engagement and an active lifestyle, reducing isolation. Accessible transportation is vital for running essential errands, attending medical appointments and visiting family members.

The major players operating in the United Kingdom Electric Wheelchair Market include SUNRISE MEDICAL (US) LLC, SOWECARE B.V, KYMCO Healthcare, MEYRA GmbH, Invacare Corporation, and Scewo.

• By Modality
  • Rear Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchair
  • 4 Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchair
  • Front Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchair
  • Self-Balancing Wheelchair
  • Standing Electric Wheelchair
  • Remote Control
• By Age Group
  • More than 60 years
  • 21 to <60 years
  • < 20 years
• By End User
  • Consumer
  • Care