Affordable and multi terrain!
Me and my partner made the 2 and a half hour drive to the showroom after booking an appointment that morning over the phone. it was unfortunately raining so we were unable to test the wheelchair outside but i tried it indoors and was very pleased. everything was thoroughly explained and they answered questions i didnt even realise i had. i already knew what wheelchair i wanted since i had been researching for months and kept coming back to the automatic recline freedom powerchair. its perfect for what i need it for and so affordable! it has completely exceeded my expectations im so happy with it, i have tested it in different terrains and it copes very well on wet grass, wooded areas, gravel, bark etc. its great on curbs and does well on slanted paths. ive had it for over a month and it has been great. the waterproof cover was a bit tricky at first but now i just keep the velcro loosely done up and slide it over the handle and joystick when needed. it isnt the easiest but it is the best one i could find online. there is a separate controller for a carer to use which is super handy. they can take control in stressful situations or when you cant quite see how much space you have. its also great for bringing the wheelchair to/from the car boot. the headrest is great and adjustable but can be awkward taking it on/off as a small plastic piece sticks to the headrest. you gotta take this off the headrest and put it back in the slot before putting the headrest back on it. also the handles can be slightly awkward as the thread is too long on them so if you screw the handle on too tight then the plastic inside crushes into the metal thread and then you cant take the handles off. it just spins on the spot - we have called them and they are happy to send another handle to me if i am able to get this one off if it is too damaged to go back on. the only other thing is the velcro strap that they give you to keep the chair folded is rough and a bit short / there isnt designated places for it to loop through. it has made the thread on my leather cushions come loose and tear so a leather strap would probably be better. all this being said, the chair is absolutely great! it fits in the boot well and gets around amazing. so so happy with this
Reply from Etech Mobility UK - Birmingham
Thank you so much for making the long trip to our showroom and for sharing such a detailed and helpful review — we’re really glad to hear your Freedom Elite AR has exceeded your expectations and is performing well across the different terrains you’ve tested it on.
We also really appreciate you highlighting the areas that could be improved. Feedback like yours helps us refine the small details that make a big difference. I’m pleased to hear the team has already offered replacement handles if needed — and we’ll absolutely take your comments on board regarding the headrest insert and the folding strap. You're right, a softer strap option would protect upgraded upholstery much better, and we’ll be reviewing this with our product team.
It’s great to know the waterproof cover and carer control have been useful, especially for day-to-day tasks like getting the chair in and out of the car. And despite the rain stopping an outdoor test, we’re delighted the indoor demo gave you the confidence you needed.
If you ever need further support — adjustments, tips, or accessories — we’re always just a call or message away. Thank you again for choosing us, and we hope your Elite AR continues to give you the freedom and comfort you deserve.