Mobility Scooter Components

The drive train is an integral part of the base unit. Scooters are rear-wheel drive, powered by motors connected to the rear axle, either via a chain, a belt, a transaxle unit, or some combination. Because the scooter is driven by the rear wheels, they push the combined weight of the unit and the rider, rather than pull it, providing good traction and climbing ability.

The horsepower of the motor is not necessarily the determining factor in whether a scooter is powerful enough to meet the user’s needs. The torque of a motor is more often a determining factor. Most scooters use permanent magnet motors, some with lower torque than others.

Lower torque motors frequently provide greater speed on flat, smooth surfaces, while higher torque motors may seem slow in that environment. However the higher torque motor will generally offer more power for climbing hills and negotiating other outdoor terrain. Again it is essential, when evaluating scooters, to be aware of the primary use for the vehicle.

Scooters utilize an electronic or electromechanical dynamic, regenerative braking system. This type of braking system works in tandem with the motor, first to slow and then stop the vehicle when the pressure is released on the thumb levers or the controls are otherwise disengaged.

When the scooter is not being powered forward or in reverse, the brakes are engaged, thus preventing the scooter from moving. During the application of the brakes, excess power from the motor is channeled to the batteries, providing recharging.

Because the brakes are engaged when the scooter is being actively powered, most scooters with this braking system are equipped with a clutch on the motor or another release lever to manually disengage the brakes to allow the scooter to be pushed in case of emergency.

Some scooters also use disc brakes or disc brakes in combination with the braking system discussed above. Some scooters—usually front-wheel drive models—are not equipped with electronic or electromechanical brakes. In the absence of a brake system, a manual parking brake applied by lever to a rear wheel is provided. Manual parking brakes may also be offered either as optional or standard features on other scooters to provide extra braking on hills and inclines.