Helpful Info
Electric Wheelchair Battery Life: How to Get Maximum Range (UK Guide)
21 March 2026 · 5 min read
How Far Can an Electric Wheelchair Go on One Charge?
The honest answer: it depends. Manufacturer range figures are measured on flat ground, with a lightweight test rider, at moderate speed. Real-world range is almost always less.
Typical ranges for modern lithium-ion powered wheelchairs:
- Budget chairs (6Ah): 8–12km
- Mid-range (10Ah): 15–20km
- Dual battery (20Ah): 20–30km
The Eezy Split ships with two 24V 6Ah lithium batteries (144Wh each, 288Wh combined), providing up to 25km from a full charge.
What Affects Your Range?
1. User Weight
This is the biggest factor. A 60kg user will get significantly more range than a 120kg user on the same chair. Heavier loads require more motor power, which drains the battery faster.
2. Terrain
- Flat smooth pavement: Maximum range
- Gentle slopes: 10–20% range reduction
- Steep hills: 30–50% range reduction
- Grass and gravel: 20–40% range reduction
- Soft sand or mud: Up to 60% reduction
3. Speed
Running at maximum speed constantly uses more power than varying your speed. If range matters, cruise at 70–80% of max speed rather than full throttle.
4. Temperature
Lithium batteries perform best between 10–25°C. Cold weather (below 5°C) can reduce range by 15–25%. Store and charge your batteries indoors when possible.
5. Tyre Pressure
If your chair has pneumatic (air-filled) tyres, underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance and drain the battery faster. Check pressure monthly — typically 30–40 PSI for wheelchair tyres.
6. Battery Age
All lithium batteries degrade over time. After 300–500 charge cycles (roughly 2–3 years of daily use), you'll notice a gradual decrease in range. This is normal — the battery doesn't suddenly fail, it just holds less charge.
How to Maximise Range on Every Trip
Charge Fully Before Long Trips
Lithium batteries don't have a "memory effect" like older batteries. Charging to 100% before a big day out is perfectly fine.
Use Eco Mode Where Available
Some chairs have speed/power modes. Using a lower power setting on flat ground extends range significantly.
Plan Your Route
Avoid unnecessary hills. A flat route that's slightly longer may use less battery than a shorter hilly route.
Don't Run the Battery to Zero
Regularly draining a lithium battery to 0% shortens its lifespan. Try to recharge when you hit 20–30% remaining.
Keep Tyres Properly Inflated
Check pneumatic tyre pressure monthly. This single maintenance task can improve range by 10–15%.
How to Extend Battery Lifespan (Years)
Store at Room Temperature
Don't leave batteries in a freezing garage or a hot car. Room temperature storage maximises lifespan.
Charge After Every Use
Unlike older battery types, lithium-ion batteries prefer frequent partial charges. Plug in after every trip rather than waiting for it to go flat.
Use the Correct Charger
Always use the charger supplied with your wheelchair. Third-party chargers may not regulate voltage correctly, which damages battery cells.
If Storing Long-Term
If you won't use the chair for more than a month, charge the battery to 50–60% and store it indoors. Check and top up every 3 months.
Dual Battery Advantage
Chairs with dual batteries (like the Eezy Split) have a significant advantage:
- Double the range for full-day outings
- Backup power — if one battery runs low, the other keeps you going
- Individual replacement — when one battery degrades, you replace just that one, not both
- Lighter per unit — two smaller batteries are easier to handle than one large one
When to Replace Your Battery
Signs it's time for a new battery:
- Range has dropped below 60% of original
- The battery won't charge to full
- The chair cuts out unexpectedly
- Charging takes much longer than it used to
Replacement lithium batteries for most chairs cost £150–£300 each. For the Eezy Split, contact us on +44 20 8050 4849 for replacement battery pricing.
The Bottom Line
The biggest range gains come from proper tyre pressure, moderate speed, and keeping the battery above 20%. A well-maintained lithium battery should last 2–3 years of daily use before needing replacement.
The Eezy Split's dual 6Ah batteries give you up to 25km from a full charge — enough for a full day out. And at £795 VAT exempt with free next day delivery, it's the best value dual-battery wheelchair in the UK.