Electric Wheelchair Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product (Standard Powered Wheelchair and Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) Powered Wheelchair), By Type (Standard Wheelchair, Bariatric Wheelchair, Sports Wheelchair, and Others), By Drive Mode (Front Wheel Drive, Mid Wheel Drive, and Rear Wheel Drive), By Age Group (Adults and Pediatrics), By End User (Healthcare Settings {Hospitals & ASCs, Specialty Clinics, and Rehabilitation Centers}, Homecare Settings, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The electric wheelchair market size was valued at USD 2.48 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 2.74 billion in 2025 to USD 5.54 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.6% during the forecast period. North America dominated the electric wheelchair market with a market share of 50% in 2024.

Electric wheelchairs are electrically powered mobility devices suitable for people with severely restricted mobility. The devices offer more convenience and flexibility, which is a major factor in the rising adoption of these devices among the population in the market.

The growing prevalence of mobility disorders among the population, coupled with the rising focus of key players to introduce technologically advanced powered wheelchairs, are some of the vital factors contributing to the market growth.

• According to a 2023 report published by Parkinson's UK, around 153,000 people are already living with Parkinson's disease in the U.K., and the number is projected to grow to nearly 172,000 by 2030.

The market encompasses some prominent players such as Invacare Corporation, Ottobock, and Sunrise Medical, among others. The growing focus of these players to launch innovative products with novel features and specifications is paving the way for these players in the market.

Global Electric Wheelchair Market Snapshot & Highlights

Market Size & Forecast:

• 2024 Market Size: USD 2.48 billion
• 2025 Market Size: USD 2.74 billion
• 2032 Forecast Market Size: USD 5.54 billion
• CAGR: 10.6% from 2025–2032

Market Share:

• Region: North America dominated the market with a 50% share in 2024. This leadership is driven by the growing focus of key players on introducing technologically advanced products and increasing initiatives by government and healthcare organizations to improve the provision and accessibility of motorized wheelchairs for disabled people.
• By Product: The standard powered wheelchair segment held the largest market share in 2024. Its dominance is attributed to the growing adoption of these devices due to their affordability and convenience, along with an increasing number of product launches by major players.

Key Country Highlights:

• Japan: The market is driven by technological innovation and a growing focus on enhancing athletic performance, as demonstrated by Honda Motor Co., Ltd.'s development of a push power measurement system for racing wheelchairs.
• United States: The market is fueled by a high prevalence of mobility-limiting conditions, with approximately 90,000 people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease annually. The market is also supported by a large population with spinal cord injuries and a strong focus on innovative mobility solutions.
• China: As part of the rapidly growing Asia Pacific market, growth is driven by rising disposable incomes, growing awareness of advanced mobility solutions, and government initiatives to increase the availability of these devices for the disabled population.
• Europe: The market is propelled by a rising prevalence of mobility disorders, with an estimated 153,000 people living with Parkinson's disease in the U.K. alone. Regional players are also actively launching new and lighter products, such as carbon fiber powerchairs, to meet consumer demand.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Growing Mobility Disorders Among the Population to Boost the Demand for Electric Wheelchairs

The growing prevalence of mobility disorders such as Parkinson's disease, neurological disorders, and others among the population is creating a greater demand for mobility devices, including electric wheelchairs, in the market. Additionally, the growing number of incidents and traumas leading to spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and others is resulting in a growing population requiring mobility devices, including powered wheelchairs for mobility.

• According to a 2023 article published by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, an estimated 50,000 people in the U.K. are living with spinal cord injuries, and nearly 2,500 new individuals in the U.K. will sustain new spinal cord injuries every year.

The growing number of disabled people globally, along with growing disposable income among the population, are leading to a higher demand for these devices, thus fostering their adoption in the market.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Cost of Advanced Products to Limit Their Adoption in Emerging Countries

The rising technological advancements in the mobility solutions industry by key players are resulting in the development of innovative products, including powered wheelchairs. However, the growing innovations are leading to higher costs associated with these devices, which is anticipated to hamper market expansion.

• According to a press release by BraunAbility, the cost of a powered wheelchair costs at least USD 3,000 and can range as high as USD 13,000 depending on the type, features, and technology.

Additionally, the cost associated with repair and maintenance further increases the overall cost of the powered wheelchairs. According to a 2023 U.S. survey conducted by the Harvard Medical School, among powered wheelchair users, nearly 29% of users faced issues with the electrical systems, while 27% reported an issue with power/control systems.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Rising R&D Focus in Emerging Countries Presents a Huge Opportunity for Market Growth

The growing number of disabled people in emerging countries such as India, Brazil, and others, along with increasing healthcare expenditure in these countries, are some of the factors expected to create significant market opportunities for players to expand their geographical presence and offerings in low and middle-income countries.

• According to a 2021 article published by the NCBI, only 16% of the disabled population in India has access to a mobility device, including wheelchairs.

The growing awareness regarding the benefits of wheelchairs and the availability of various mobility schemes for the disabled population in developing economies, along with increasing R&D focus among institutes and research centers to develop innovative products, are expected to create lucrative opportunities for market development.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Lack of Developed Healthcare Infrastructure in Emerging Countries

The limited availability of healthcare facilities in emerging nations, along with resource constraints in these facilities, is expected to hamper the adoption of mobility devices, including wheelchairs, posing a barrier to market growth.

Certain Limitations with Batteries of the Powered Wheelchairs

There are a few common limitations with the batteries used in electric wheelchairs, such as short battery life, rapid discharge of the battery, and overheating, among others, which can be major challenges for wheelchair users. All these challenges are considered major obstacles to the widespread adoption of these products in the market.

ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR MARKET TRENDS

Rising Technological Advancements in Powered Wheelchairs to Boost Product Demand

The rising focus of key players to develop and introduce products with technologically advanced features is driving the adoption of these devices in the market, further bolstering the global market.

• In November 2024, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. developed the world's first push power measurement system for racing wheelchairs with an aim to enhance the performance of athletes.

The growing demand for these devices among the population, along with the introduction of innovative products, is anticipated to fuel the global electric wheelchair market growth.

Customization and Personalization

The rising demand for innovative powered wheelchairs among the population, owing to their benefits such as convenience and durability, among others, is resulting in a growing focus of companies and research institutes to develop customized solutions tailored to individual needs.

• In September 2023, Replique, one of the leading German-based manufacturers, leveraged HP's Multi Jet Fusion technology to enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customization in the manufacturing of wheelchairs.

Growing Adoption of Wheelchairs Among the Homecare Settings

There is a rising preference for homecare settings for treatment and care, especially among the geriatric population in developed and emerging countries. Additionally, the rising number of homecare settings globally, along with the increasing geriatric population visiting nursing homes, long-term care centers, and others, are leading to increasing adoption of powered wheelchairs among these facilities.

Impact of COVID-19

The global market witnessed a decline in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic due to reduced patient visits to healthcare facilities and supply chain disruption affecting key players. Major players operating in the market reported a decline in revenues from the mobility devices segment, which includes wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and walking aids, primarily owing to lockdown restrictions and reduced demand for these devices.

• For instance, Invacare Corporation generated a revenue of USD 324.8 million from its mobility and seating segment in 2020 and witnessed a decline of around 18.7% compared to the previous year.

However, the demand for these products rebounded in 2021 as COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, leading to an increased number of patient visits, surgeries, and homecare admissions. The increasing prevalence of mobility disorders, along with the growing focus of key players to introduce novel products, are expected to spur the demand for these products in the market.

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SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Product

Growing Adoption of Standard Powered Wheelchairs Among the Population Resulted in the Segment's Dominance

Based on product, the market is divided into standard powered wheelchair and complex rehab technology (CRT) powered wheelchair.

The standard powered wheelchair segment accounted for the largest global electric wheelchair market share in 2024. The growing adoption of these devices among the population, owing to affordability and convenience, and increasing product launches by major players are some of the factors contributing to the growth of the segment.

The complex rehab technology (CRT) powered wheelchair segment is projected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. One of the major advantages of the CRT-powered wheelchair is the prevention of pressure injuries among patients, which makes it suitable for patient's spinal and posture-related problems. The growing demand for these devices has encouraged companies to introduce tailored solutions that support the growth of the segment.

• In March 2024, Hoveround, one of the leading mobility aids manufacturers, launched Hoveround Mobility Solutions (HMS). Through this initiative, Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs) and CRT teams can work closely with physicians and physical/occupational therapists for the selection of the appropriate CRT to fit the patients' power mobility needs.

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By Type

Increasing Awareness and Standard Wheelchairs Adoption Resulted in Segmental Dominance

On the basis of type, the market is segmented into standard wheelchair, bariatric wheelchair, sports wheelchair, and others.

The standard wheelchairs segment dominated the market in 2024. The rising awareness regarding the availability of powered mobility solutions, including standard wheelchairs, along with increasing disposable income in emerging countries, has driven the growth of the segment.

• According to the 2022 statistics published by the Quebec Institute of Statistics, the per capita disposable income grew by 7.4% in 2022 compared to 2021.

The bariatric wheelchairs segment is expected to register the highest growth during the forecast period. The increasing prevalence of mobility disorders among the obese population, the growing number of obese population, and the rising number of bariatric wheelchairs introduced in the market are some of the vital factors contributing to the growth of the segment.

• According to 2023 statistics published by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. are overweight, and more than 2 in 5 adults have obesity.

The sports wheelchairs segment is projected to grow significantly during the forecast period. The rising number of injuries among athletes and sports professionals in the countries leads to rising demand for these devices, fueling the growth of the segment. Along with this, the rising collaborations among healthcare organizations to increase the accessibility of these devices among professionals is another contributing factor to the growth of the segment.

• In August 2024, WHO and the International Paralympic Committee partnered to improve the accessibility of mobility aids, including wheelchairs, for Paralympic athletes.

By Drive Mode

Mid Wheel Drive Segment Dominated Owing to Its Increasing Adoption for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Based on drive mode, the market is segmented into front wheel drive, mid wheel drive, and rear wheel drive.

The mid wheel drive segment accounted for the highest market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be majorly attributable to the design and convenience of these wheelchairs for indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, the growing focus of key companies on launching innovative products to expand their product portfolio is another major factor supporting the adoption of the segment in the market.

• In June 2023, Permobil launched its M Corpus VS wheelchair, featuring mid wheel drive with knee supports and easier programming for users.

The front wheel drive segment is projected to be the faster-growing segment during the forecast period. The growth is driven by the rising number of research activities for the development and introduction of technologically advanced front wheel drive mode wheelchairs for users.

The rear wheel drive segment is expected to grow at a slower rate during the forecast period. The rising technological advancements in the other segments are resulting in lesser adoption of rear wheel drive products. However, the cost-effectiveness of the products, especially among the lower and middle-income population, is expected to boost the segment expansion during the forecast period.

By Age Group

Rising Product Launches for Adults by the Market Players Led to Their Dominance 

Based on age group, the market is segmented into adults and pediatrics.

The adults segment held the largest market share in 2024. The growing number of adults suffering from various mobility disorders and spinal cord injuries, along with a rising number of product launches targeted at adults, is expected to drive product adoption.

• According to 2021 statistics published by the U.S. National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, an estimated 299,000 people were living with spinal cord injury (SCI) in the U.S.

The pediatrics segment is projected to grow at a considerable growth rate during the forecast period. The growing focus of companies to develop and launch user-friendly powered wheelchairs for children in response to the rising prevalence of mobility issues among children and the rising number of injuries and accidents.

By End User

Growing Number of Homecare Settings with Disabled People Led the Growth of the Segment

On the basis of end user, the market is segmented into healthcare settings, homecare settings, and others. The healthcare settings are further segmented into hospitals & ASCs, specialty clinics, and rehabilitation centers.

The homecare settings segment accounted for the maximum market share in 2024. The growing adoption of electric wheelchairs for use in homecare settings, including homes, nursing homes, and others, along with an increasing number of these settings in developed and emerging countries, are major factors supporting the growth of the segment.

• According to a 2024 article published by the Carehome, there are around 16,700 homecare facilities in the U.K., including nursing homes and residential care settings.

The healthcare settings segment is projected to register higher growth during the forecast period. The rising number of hospitals and rehabilitation centers in emerging countries such as India, China, and others, along with a growing number of patient admissions to these facilities, are major factors contributing to the growth of the segment.

The others segment is projected to grow at a steady rate during the forecast period, driven by the growing adoption of mobility devices in airports and other facilities.

ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

On the basis of geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

North America

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North America Dominated the Market Owing to Rising Demand for Mobility Devices

The region dominated the market in 2024, valued at USD 1.24 billion. The growing focus of key players on introducing technologically advanced products to cater to the rising demand for mobility devices, including wheelchairs, is a major driver of market growth. Additionally, the rising initiatives by the government and healthcare organizations to increase the provision and accessibility of motorized wheelchairs among disabled people are expected to boost the growth of the region in the market.

• In December 2024, the Paralympic Foundation of Canada (PFC) raised over USD 2.0 million through its fundraiser events to support the growth and development of Para sport across the country with the provision of powered wheelchairs.

The U.S. market is projected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. The rising prevalence of spinal cord injuries and other mobility disorders along with increased awareness regarding mobility products, are some major factors supporting the growth of the market in the country.

• According to 2022 data published by the Parkinson's Foundation, there were approximately 90,000 people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the U.S. every year, representing an increase of around 50% compared to the previous estimates.

Europe

In Europe, the growing number of regional players offering a wide range of products and the rising focus of these companies to increase the awareness and accessibility for mobility devices, including powered wheelchairs, are contributing to the growth of the market in the region.

• In December 2024, Dash Rehab, one of the mobility equipment suppliers, launched the DASH Carbon Pro, the lightest carbon fiber powerchair in the U.K.

Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific market is projected to grow considerably owing to the rising disposable income among countries such as India and South Korea, alongside growing awareness regarding the products, leading to the increasing adoption of these devices among disabled persons in the countries. Additionally, the growing government initiatives and efforts by companies and healthcare organizations to increase the availability of mobility products among the population are expected to drive the demand for these devices in the region.

• In October 2023, G Square, one of the leading plot promoters in India, launched the 'G Square – Wheels of Hope' initiative with a plan to distribute over 1,000 motorized wheelchairs for disabled persons.

Latin America

The region is anticipated to register a steady growth rate during the forecast period. The growing number of sports injuries among athletes and professionals in Brazil, Mexico, and other countries, along with growing disability, is leading to rising demand for motorized mobility devices in the region, thus fostering the growth of the market.

• According to 2022 data published by the Brazil Population Census and the National Survey of Health (PNS), nearly 18.6 million people aged 2 years and above in Brazil had some disability.

Middle East & Africa

The region is expected to grow at a normal growth rate during the forecast period, driven by the growing focus of government authorities, organizations, and companies on increasing awareness regarding electric wheelchairs.

• In December 2024, the Saudi Authority for the Care of People with Disabilities launched a support awareness campaign for persons with disabilities to help them improve their quality of life.

Competitive Landscape

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Increasing Product Launches by Key Players to Boost their Market Shares

The global electric wheelchair market is fragmented, with a large number of players offering a wide range of products for users. Invacare Corporation, Permobil, and Sunrise Medical are a few of the prominent players in the market, and they have a range of power wheelchairs with customizations and innovative features. The rising focus of these companies to expand their research and development activities to introduce innovative products is a crucial factor supporting the growth of these companies in the market.

• In November 2024, Permobil inaugurated a new global innovation center in Sweden for R&D activities to develop innovative products and increase accessibility among the population.

Ottobock, Karma Medical, and others are major players in the market. The increasing focus of these companies on strategically collaborating with prominent players to strengthen their product offerings and geographical presence is one of the major factors leading to their growing market shares.

• In October 2021, Karma Medical partnered with Permobil with an aim to increase its product offering to several markets.

LIST OF KEY ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Invacare Corporation (U.S.)
• Ottobock (Germany)
• Drive Devilbiss International (U.S.)
• GF Health Products, Inc. (U.S.)
• Etac AB (Sweden)
• Sunrise Medical (Germany)
• Permobil (Sweden)
• Pride Mobility Products Corp. (U.S.)
• Carex (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• December 2024 – Sunrise Medical launched QUICKIE Q300 R Kids and Teens, a powerchair for children and teenagers. The product launch is aimed at increasing the pediatric wheelchair segment of the company.
• November 2024 – Invacare Corporation launched products within their Invacare Power Series of TDX and AVIVA RX.
• November 2024 – Pride Mobility Products Corp. launched the Jazzy Ultra Light power wheelchair, made of an all-carbon-fiber frame. The launch is aimed at strengthening the company's power wheelchair product portfolio.
• July 2024 - Drive Devilbiss International acquired Mobility Designed, Inc.'s full products portfolio. The acquisition is aimed at strengthening the company's position in the mobility device industry.
• March 2024 - The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) developed a standing electric wheelchair to benefit wheelchair users.

REPORT COVERAGE

The global electric wheelchair market report provides a detailed market analysis. It focuses on key aspects, such as market size & market forecast, and market segmentation based on product, type, drive mode, age group, and end user. The report focuses on the penetration of wheelchairs among the population globally, along with the technological advancements and market trends in the industry.

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Report Scope & Segmentation