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Rear-Attaching Power Assists for Wheelchair Mobility

Alber SMOOV rear-attaching wheelchair power assist
 
 
 

Add hands-free power to your manual wheelchair. Rear-attaching power assists stay completely out of the way while giving you more speed, easier hills, and less strain on your shoulders.

Turn Your Manual Chair Into a More Powerful Ride

Rear-attaching power assists have a clear advantage over other mobility add-ons: they're completely out of your way. A rear-mounted wheelchair power assist is hands-free and easy to control, transforming your manual wheelchair into a more powerful, versatile chair.

A manual wheelchair power assist gives you improved speed, power, and the ability to handle tougher terrain, all without swapping your everyday chair. This wheelchair motor attachment helps anyone who needs a little extra push, letting you go longer distances without fatigue and ascend ramps with ease.

Each rear-attached wheelchair assist uses cutting-edge design and technology from trusted brands including Permobil, Alber, Sunrise Medical, Ki Mobility, and more — all offered at great prices.

Not sure which power assist fits your chair? Tell us your wheelchair model and how you ride and we'll match the right unit before you order.

Why Choose a Rear-Attaching Power Assist?

Out of the way. Rear mounting keeps your lap, wheels, and transfers completely clear.

Less strain. Motorized push reduces shoulder fatigue over long distances and hills.

Keep your chair. Add power to the manual wheelchair you already know and trust.

Trusted brands. SmartDrive, SMOOV, Empulse, Klaxon, and Power-Flex.

Rear-attaching wheelchair power assist

Chair compatibility

Power assists mount to specific frame types. Confirm the unit and bracket fit your folding or rigid manual wheelchair before ordering.

Control style

Some units use a wristband or push-to-go control; others use a wired joystick. Pick what suits your hand function and riding style.

Weight & portability

If you load your chair into a car, weigh the unit. The SmartDrive MX2+ is among the lightest rear-attaching options on the market.

Self or caregiver

Most assists are rider-controlled, while the Empulse R20 is designed specifically to support caregivers pushing the chair.

Empulse R90 rear-attaching power assist by Sunrise Medical
 
 
 

Talk to a power assist specialist

Tell us your chair and how far you ride, and we'll match the right power assist — and walk you through financing and insurance.

Read more from the Living Spinal

Paraplegic Wheelchair Guide Detailed buying advice for choosing a chair and add-ons. Wheelchair Travel Resources Guide Tips for traveling with your chair and power assist. The Living Spinal Blog Guides, reviews, and tips for wheelchair users.

Check out these other Categories

Power Assist Wheels (Hub-Drive) Hub-motor wheels that replace your rear wheels. Off-Road & All-Terrain Power Assists Front-mount assists for grass, gravel, and trails. Accessories & Parts Batteries, brackets, and replacement parts.

Rear-Attaching Power Assists FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a rear-attaching power assist?

A rear-attaching power assist is a motorized device that mounts to the back of a manual wheelchair, adding hands-free electric power. It transforms your manual chair into a faster, more capable ride without replacing it, and stays completely out of your way.

How does a wheelchair power assist work?

A power assist adds a motor and battery to your manual wheelchair. Depending on the model, you control it with a wristband, a push-to-go sensor, or a wired joystick, letting the motor do the pushing so you travel farther with less effort.

What are the benefits of a rear-mounted power assist?

Rear-mounted assists keep your lap and wheels clear, reduce shoulder strain, and make hills and long distances far easier. Because they attach to the chair you already use, you keep your familiar seating and setup.

Which brands of power assist do you carry?

We offer rear-attaching power assists from trusted brands including Permobil (SmartDrive), Alber (SMOOV), Sunrise Medical (Empulse), Ki Mobility (Klaxon Twist), and Soul Mobility (Power-Flex).

What is the SmartDrive MX2+?

The SmartDrive MX2+ by Permobil is one of the most innovative and lightweight rear-attaching power assists available. It's small, portable, and powerful, making it a popular choice for active manual wheelchair users.

What is the SMOOV One?

The SMOOV One by Alber is a rear-mounted electric drive designed for active wheelchair users. You easily dock it onto your chair, and it delivers responsive power for everyday use and longer trips.

Is there a power assist designed for caregivers?

Yes. The Empulse R20 by Sunrise Medical is the only true power-assist device designed specifically to support caregivers. It's compatible with most folding and tilt-in-space manual wheelchairs.

Will a power assist fit my wheelchair?

Most rear-attaching assists fit a range of folding and rigid manual chairs with the correct bracket or adaptor. Because fit is critical, we recommend confirming your specific wheelchair model with our specialists before ordering.

Can I move my power assist between wheelchairs?

Often yes, with the right hardware. For example, the SMOOV Drive Unit Bracket lets you mount your SMOOV on a different rigid or folding chair, so you can move the drive unit between wheelchairs.

How far can a wheelchair power assist travel on one charge?

Range varies by model, battery, terrain, and rider weight. Power assists are designed to help you go longer distances without fatigue, and our specialists can give you real-world range estimates for each unit.

Can I replace the battery or parts on my power assist?

Yes. We stock replacement parts such as the SmartDrive MX2/MX2+ internal battery pack and circuit board, so you can refresh or upgrade your unit rather than replacing the whole system.

Does insurance or financing cover a power assist?

Power assists are a significant investment, and some may qualify for insurance, grants, or workers' comp. We also offer financing and can help you explore funding options. Call (619) 810-0010 for help.