Power-Assist Add-On

A power-assist add-on is a retrofit device attached to a manual wheelchair that provides motorized propulsion while preserving the chair's manual structure, offering a middle ground between manual and full power wheelchairs. Commercial examples include the SmartDrive, Firefly, and various hand-cycle attachments; DIY variants combine scooter motors, e-bike batteries, and custom mounting brackets to achieve similar functionality at a fraction of the cost. Power-assist extends range, reduces shoulder strain from repetitive propulsion, and enables outdoor and off-road access, but mainstream options are often unaffordable or not covered by insurance — driving a vibrant DIY community that shares conversion tutorials, parts lists, and safety tips on YouTube and maker forums.