Suzuki Motorized Wheelchairs

Main article: Wheelchairs

2019: KUPO convertible model introduced

KUPO Transformer Concept Model

At the 46th Tokyo Motor Show 2019, Suzuki Motor Corporation unveiled the KUPO concept transformer model. This is both an electric wheelchair and a walker. When walking, it is proposed to select the "Push" mode, then the transformer will take the form of an electric walker. During long walks, when choosing the "Drive" mode, the walker becomes an electric wheelchair.

2014: UT Concept city stroller

At the 41st International Home Care and Rehabilitation Trade Show 2014 in Tokyo (Japan), Suzuki unveiled a concept model for its UT Concept urban motorized wheelchair. It is equipped with a removable battery and accident prevention technology, including obstacle and step detection, as well as a compact design that makes it easy to maneuver through urban pedestrian areas. The stroller was controlled using levers and a touch panel located on the right, as well as a rear view camera.

1988: Release of Suzuki Motor Chair motorized wheelchair MC13

In March 1988, Suzuki released the Suzuki Motor Chair MC13 motorized wheelchair.

1987: Production of Suzuki Senior Car ET11

In June 1974, the National Police Agency issued a communiqué in which the maximum speed of motorized wheelchairs was set at walking speed, that is, about 4 km/h. Then amendments were made to increase the permitted speed to 6 km/h, corresponding to fast walking. In addition, new rules were introduced regarding the design and size of strollers, excluding the presence of sharp edges or protruding parts.

In December 1987, Suzuki launched the Suzuki Senior Car ET11, a three-wheeled electric car with a speed limit that meets the new requirements. Acceleration to maximum speed was carried out by pressing the accelerator lever until stop, with sequential switching of speeds from low (3 km/h) to medium (4.5 km/h) to high (6 km/h). This made it possible to increase the level of security, for example, when changing the traffic light signal.

Suzuki Senior Car ET11

1981: Transfer of 100 motorized wheelchairs to the Ministry of Health of Japan

In 1981, there were more than one million people with physical disabilities in Japan, and approximately 300,000 needed auxiliary mobile devices. Suzuki has handed over 100 motorised wheelchairs at a total cost of ¥30 million to the Ministry of Health and Social Services. They were distributed to 97 points in the country at the initiative of the ministry, including 30 social and medical institutions, 64 rehabilitation consultation points and 3 facilities in the National Rehabilitation Center for people with disabilities.

1979: Development of a modular motorized wheelchair

As part of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry's program to support research and development of medical and social products, Suzuki was awarded a three-year contract (1976 to 1979) to develop a modular motorized wheelchair.

Matsushita Electrical Industrial Co., Ltd. (now Panasonic Corporation) was responsible for developing the battery system, while Suzuki took over all other aspects of the products. As a result of the joint work of the two companies, a modular motorized wheelchair MC10 was created in 1979, which allowed users to choose the necessary components according to their individual needs and physique.

1973: Motorized Wheelchair Production Line Launch

In search of new business development opportunities, Suzuki drew attention to the growing demand for medical and social equipment. In 1973, the company created a design team to develop products that could improve people's quality of life. After exploring various options, the team decided to focus on creating a motorized wheelchair. Despite the lack of experience in this area, Suzuki conducted a thorough study and developed a stroller taking into account the needs of people with disabilities.

The company soon received an order to supply 100 wheelchairs to Aomori Prefecture, speeding up the development process. The stroller, called the Suzuki Motor Chair Z600, was easy to use and convenient. It was equipped with an electronic joystick that allowed users to easily control the device.

Suzuki MT Z600

In response to demand for outdoor strollers, Suzuki released updated Z601 models in 1975 and Z602 in 1978. They were distinguished by increased strength and improved off-road characteristics. This moment marked the beginning of a new era in the field of medical technology and provided millions of people with disabilities with a way for self-movement and active life.