Smart Wheelchair Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

The smart wheelchair market is anticipated to record a value of USD 185.7 million in 2024. The industry is projected to witness a CAGR of 7.8% in the ten-year time frame. The revenue projection for smart wheelchairs is going to be USD 393.5 million by 2034.

The demand for intelligent wheelchair navigation assistance is rising to address the growing population of senior citizens and those suffering from physical disabilities. Aging, accidents, and diseases like spinal cord injuries and cerebral palsy are contributing to the increasing count of disabled individuals. Such individuals make up more than 15% of the overall population.

Companies are also investing their resources in acquiring the latest techniques and improving the capabilities of their recent editions of intelligent wheelchairs. The availability of low-cost sensors and processors is forwarding the trend of intelligence-based systems.

Sensing the positive outlook towards smart options like wearable devices, smart gadgets, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, players have a chance to make it big in the smart wheelchair market. Increasing remunerative options available to participants is expected to advance the industry growth.

There are ample benefits associated with upgrading and improving assistive technology. In this list, securing social and economic inclusion ranks at the top, due to its link with human basic needs. By using assistive technologies, people with disabilities (PWD) gain access to wider circles and resources to improve their lives.

The robotics industry is taking a keen interest in the creation of models and software to empower patients with mobility-related issues. This is projected to expand the product pipeline over the forecast period.

Ongoing research to improve the Internet of Things and sensor technology further is creating opportunities for smart wheelchair market participants. Players are developing interesting apps that enable the physically impaired person. The latest example of this would be the introduction of a manual wheelchair that is automatically driven.

Technological upgrades are underway, and more emphasis is being given to the integration of AI and robotics in the traditional wheelchairs. Such focus areas and efforts are expected to fuel the smart wheelchair market, going forward.

Attributes Description
Estimated Smart Wheelchair Market Size (2024E) USD 185.7 million
Projected Smart Wheelchair Market Value (2034F) USD 393.5 million
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) 7.8%

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Key Industry Highlights

Neurodegenerative Disorders Fuel the Sales of Smart Wheelchairs

Neurodegenerative disorders like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) affect vast populations. For instance, the ALS Society of Canada approximated that over 1,000 people are typically diagnosed with this disease in Canada annually.

Apart from this, 3,000 people with ALS are living in the country at any given time. This is a consistent driver for assistive equipment like intelligent wheelchairs. Wheelchairs, equipped with numerous functions including tilting, reclining, and standing, are in demand for improved care and mobility.

Favorable Government Policies Impel More Sales of Smart Wheelchairs

Government policies and regulations are set in place to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. Regulations as such encourage public spaces and transportation to make arrangement for wheelchair-accessibility.

Thus, boosting the product demand. Moreover, the insurance coverage and healthcare reimbursement for intelligent wheelchairs is expected to make this equipment affordable for people with disabilities. Consequently, raising the product’s demand.

Restrictive Factors that Pose Challenges for Manufacturers

Such wheelchairs are a luxury for patients. For people already incurring medical expenses for hospital visits, medicines, traveling expenses to healthcare, etc., the added and high cost of these intelligent wheelchairs doesn’t seem feasible. Additionally, alternative options like manual wheelchairs, whose maintenance costs are reasonable, are further prohibiting its adoption.

Extreme comfort linked with the use of manual wheelchairs, so much so that the patient considers it as an extended limb, is also impeding the industry's growth. To further realize the potential of smart wheelchairs, they would require interaction with smart city infrastructure.

This would necessitate seamless navigation with automatic doors, accessible ramps, and elevator call systems. Nonetheless, it’s a complex task, one which would take several years to fully develop.

2019 to 2023 Global Smart Wheelchair Sales Outlook Compared to Demand Forecast from 2024 to 2034

Global smart wheelchair sales rose at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2018 to 2023. The corresponding market values for 2018 and 2023 were assessed at USD 125.1 million and USD 172.7 million, respectively.

The moderate sales of such wheelchairs during the historical period are attributed to rising incidences of physical disabilities, deemed temporary or permanent. Surging cases of road traffic-related accidents, that induce limited mobility, are another impetus for intelligent wheelchair demand.

The expanding geriatric population is also susceptible to restricted mobility conditions. Knee injuries, paralysis, strokes, and obesity are certain pervasive mobility-related issues that have been detected among people over 65 years. Thus, players are targeting their efforts on this group to boost their sales.

Technological progress in the field of home care, assisted living, patient care, and elder care products and services to improve patient management is taking precedence. As a result, innovations in the field of intelligent wheelchairs are welcomed by end users.

New and improved assistive technology designs are being developed with sensor and wireless technologies. Additionally, players are creating customized solutions with the assistance of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) tools. People with severe disabilities are adopting such assistive technologies to interact with electric devices like tablets, laptops, radios, and televisions.

Over the forecast period, the industry is projected to expand at a promising 7.8% CAGR, given the continuous technological advancements in the industry.

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Country-wise Insights

Adoption patterns of smart wheelchairs in developed countries like the United States and Germany are expected to be promising. Sales are predicted to be driven by research funding and the availability of smart equipment in such areas. Demand in China and India is projected to be fueled by the expansive patient base of physically impaired individuals and improving income levels.

Countries CAGR 2024 to 2034
United States 8.3%
Germany 7.4%
China 11.1%
India 11.4%
Australia 7.5%

Sales of Smart Wheelchairs Skyrockets in the United States, thanks to Favorable Reimbursement Plans

The United States enjoys a leading position in North America when it comes to smart wheelchair market. The country is estimated to attain a CAGR of 8.3% over the forecast period. The country is populated with a massive population of people suffering from physical disabilities. This is creating a potential for surged sales across the country.

The country’s federal reimbursement plans and the existence of disability criteria within the healthcare structure are prompting intelligent wheelchairs sales. In conjunction, the Americans with Disabilities Act has many reimbursements for assistive mobility tools and aids. Such policies are pushing the adoption and management of assistive devices like intelligent wheelchairs across the United States.

Germany to Embark on the New Chapter in Human Mobility

The smart wheelchair industry in Germany is expected to expand at a 7.4% CAGR over the forecast period. Continuous research to develop advanced versions of wheelchairs is expected to meet or surpass patients’ expectations.

For instance, in September 2021, the German federal government-funded research on intelligent wheelchair seats to create smart seats for young wheelchair users. Digitalization and customization are the focus areas of the project, to give young users reliable sitting support.

Recently, a leading provider of intelligent wheelchairs has developed a system that can be controlled with head gestures. Thereby, empowering those with extreme muscle diseases with more independence and mobility.

Expanding Geriatric Population with Mobility Issues in India to Push the Demand

India is expected to pace at a CAGR of 11.4% over the next decade in the smart wheelchair market. Key factors contributing to the expansive market for such wheelchairs include a rapidly growing geriatric population and robust adoption of automated systems. The rising integration of technologies like autonomous navigation systems for real-time navigation of intelligent wheelchairs is further enhancing the market scope.

Players are also developing assistive devices with terrain perception to reduce fall risks among elderly users of intelligent wheelchairs.

Category-wise Insights

This section mentions the top performers of the smart wheelchair market in detail. Presently, joystick-based smart wheelchairs enjoy a high preference among patients with mobility issues, registering a share of 85% in 2024. Under the usage category, the mobility impairment segment is expected to assume prominence over the estimated period. In 2024, this segment is predicted to obtain a 45% share.

Joystick-based Smart Wheelchairs to Enjoy Massive Ownership

Segment Joystick-based Smart Wheelchairs (Product)
Value Share (2024) 85%

Joystick-based smart wheelchairs are expected to acquire a dominant share of the industry. This segment growth is driven by continuous advancements aimed at improving patient mobility. For example, several patients suffering from cerebral palsy are not quite adaptive to the navigation assistance offered by conventional joystick-based wheelchairs.

As a result, advances are being made in joystick-based intelligent wheelchairs like simultaneous deployment of AI for assistive mobility. Rising traction for joystick-based intelligent wheelchairs is expected to further expand the segment’s value.

Smart Wheelchairs Significantly Purchased for Mobility Impairment

Segment Mobility Impairment (Usage)
Value Share (2024) 45%

Smart wheelchairs are typically and widely used to accommodate people with mobility impairment. The patients adopt wheelchairs to perform daily functions. Integration of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) in smart wheelchairs for expansive data monitoring and patient assessment is expected to increase the appeal of this equipment among physically impaired individuals.

Players are developing smart wheelchairs that can be controlled via voice commands, which can be helpful for people with limited upper-body mobility. Additionally, navigation systems like GPS and other navigation systems are being integrated into smart wheelchairs to get the user to their destination efficiently and safely. Thereby, increasing their use for mobility impairment.

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Competition Outlook

Key players in the smart wheelchair market are focusing on innovation in their latest developments. Companies are integrating AI-powered navigation systems, remote monitoring, and emergency alert systems, in electric wheelchairs to enhance their portfolio. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve the battery life and charging capabilities to increase patients’ convenience.

Players are also innovating foldable and lightweight smart wheelchairs to increase their penetration in the smart wheelchair market. Playersmark are sensing the demand for customizable options to meet the various needs and abilities of patients. Predominantly, opportunities for key players lie in developing smart wheelchairs to cater to the expanding pediatric and geriatric population.

Industry Updates

  • In March 2023, Coimbatore’s Sruthi Babu developed an intelligent wheelchair cum stretcher that is equipped with a rechargeable battery and a self-cleaning commode. The intent behind this creation is to provide dignity to people with debilitating mobility issues. This initiative bagged INR 1 crore on a popular entrepreneurial show called Shark Tank.
  • In July 2023, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) officially introduced a six-month pilot of Quantum Self Securement Station on certain buses along the route of M7. This allows wheelchair users to secure themselves quickly with a push of a button without the need of a bus operator. Thus, streamlining the process and speeding up bus operations.

Leading Smart Wheelchair Companies

  • Medical Depot
  • Permobil
  • Pride Mobility Products Ltd.
  • MEYRA GmbH
  • DEKA Research & Development Corp.
  • Ottobock
  • WHILL Inc.
  • Invacare Corporation
  • Karman Healthcare, Inc.
  • Others

Key Segments of Market Report

By Product Type:

Based on product type, the sector is divided into joystick-based and Bluetooth-connected.

By Usage:

By usage, the industry is segmented into mobility impairment, ocular disability, geriatric group, and multiple-disability, among others.

By End-users:

End-users of intelligent wheelchairs include healthcare settings, home care settings, and public access.

By Region:

A regional industry analysis is conducted across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much is the Smart Wheelchair Market Valued?

The industry is going to be worth USD 185.7 million in 2024.

What is the Projected Adoption Rate of Intelligent Wheelchair?

The current forecast projects a CAGR of 7.8% for the industry through 2034.

What is the Estimated Industry Size for 2034?

The industry to expected to reach USD 393.5 million by 2034.

Which Product Type Segment Holds a Significant Market Share?

Joystick-based smart wheelchairs are expected to account for a significant share.

Which Countries Offer Growth Opportunities?

India and China are predicted to offer opportunities for investors.

Which Players in the Industry are Influential?

Medical Depot and Permobil are influential industry players.

Table of Content

1. Executive Summary

2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition

3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments

4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections

5. Pricing Analysis

6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034

    6.1. Product

    6.2. Patient

    6.3. End-User

7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product

    7.1. Joystick-Based

    7.2. Bluetooth Connected

8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Patient

    8.1. Mobility Impairment

    8.2. Ocular Disability

    8.3. Geriatric Group

    8.4. Multiple-Disability

    8.5. Others

9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End-User

    9.1. Healthcare Settings

    9.2. Home Care Settings

    9.3. Public Access

10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region

    10.1. North America

    10.2. Latin America

    10.3. Western Europe

    10.4. South Asia

    10.5. East Asia

    10.6. Eastern Europe

    10.7. Middle East & Africa

11. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

12. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

13. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

14. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

15. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

16. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

17. Middle East & Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

18. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by Product, Patient, and End-User for 30 Countries

19. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard

20. Company Profile

    20.1. Medical Depot, Inc.

    20.2. Permobil AB

    20.3. Pride Mobility Products Ltd.

    20.4. MEYRA GmbH

    20.5. DEKA Research & Development Corp.

    20.6. Ottobock

    20.7. WHILL Inc.

    20.8. Invacare Corporation

    20.9. Karman Healthcare, Inc.

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