The drive method of an electric wheelchair directly affects its handling and terrain adaptability. Front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive are two mainstream configurations, each suited to different usage environments and user needs.

Front-Wheel Drive: Ideal for Complex Outdoor Terrain

Front-wheel drive systems utilize a combination of large front drive wheels and small rear guide wheels. This structure allows the powered wheels to contact obstacles first, significantly improving obstacle negotiating capabilities. Tests have shown that front-wheel drive models have a 25% higher success rate in negotiating 5-centimeter-high curbs than rear-wheel drive models, making them particularly suitable for gravel roads, gentle slopes, and light off-roading.

However, front-wheel drive designs do have limitations: they require a large turning area when turning, and multiple adjustments are often required to complete a turn in narrow passages less than 1.2 meters wide. Users may experience a slight forward tilt when descending hills, but models that meet international safety standards are equipped with anti-rollover devices, ensuring safety levels meet regulatory standards.

This type of drive is particularly well-suited for two scenarios: first, sloping terrain and irregular road surfaces, such as the hilly regions of Southeast Asia or the cobblestone streets of historic European neighborhoods; and second, areas with poor road conditions, where its excellent obstacle-crossing capabilities effectively handle potholes or poorly maintained sidewalks.

Rear-wheel drive: The preferred option for urban environments

Rear-wheel drive systems, the mainstream configuration in the market (accounting for over 70% of global sales), utilize rear-wheel drive combined with a front universal wheel design. Their greatest advantage lies in driving stability—the rear-positioned drive wheels help reduce the risk of weight shift. Actual measurements show that when cornering at the same speed, rear-wheel drive models exhibit 3-5 degrees less roll angle than front-wheel drive models.

Another outstanding feature of rear-wheel drive is its agile steering. With the rear wheels providing power and the front wheels steering, the vehicle achieves a tighter turning radius in indoor environments, such as between supermarket shelves and in hospital corridors. However, be aware that the rear wheels may experience slight sideways slip when turning sharply on slippery surfaces, so it is recommended to choose a model equipped with an electronic stability control system.

Rear-wheel drive systems are widely applicable in high-frequency urban environments, such as the smooth roads of European and American retirement communities and indoor spaces like airport terminals. For daily public transportation users, the rear-wheel drive feature also makes entering and exiting elevators more convenient and smooth.