Short distance travel on a wheelchair has moved ahead with the WHILL model C2 Personal Mobility, that recently won the 2021 Australian Good Design of the Year.
It was developed in Japan with the goal of building a platform for short-distance mobility by increasing manoeuvrability with large front omni-wheels. The device is equipped with an 18km range and 8 km/hr speed and allows for driving through airports, beaches, hiking trails and more, climbing over obstacles up to 5cm in height. It features a 75cm turning radius for confined spaces and tight elevators and is easily disassembled in four steps.
CEO of Good Design Australia, Dr Brandon Gien, said the product exceeded expectations for the three criteria for design excellence: “good design, innovation and impact”.
The WHILL is expected to be available in mid-December with a distributor to be confirmed.