Powerchair/Scooter Glossary
Class 2 - powered wheelchairs and scooters for use on pavements. Maximum speed 4mph (6.5km/h), maximum weight 113kg
Class 3 - powered wheelchairs and scooters for use on roads. Maximum speed 8mph must have lights indicators and wing mirror (12.8km/h) - 4mph (6.5km/h) on pavements - maximum weight 150kg
Class 3 vehicles must be registered with the DVLA. Users do not need a driving licence or have to take a test. They do not have to pay road tax but are supposed to display a "nil duty" tax disc. No registration plates or insurance are needed - though the latter is recommended.
Batteries:
Most mobility batteries are defined as “traction” or “deep cycle” they are designed to slowly release their power for hours before being recharged where as car type batteries are designed to give short bursts of power and therefore are not suitable for mobility vehicles. The Mobility batteries from new can take up to 10 -15 charging / discharging cycles to achieve approximately 100% of its full capacity. The lifespan of these batteries can be affected by many things usage, care, size of battery but on average up to 18 months is normal although we have found the smaller capacity batteries used in the portable scooters can be a lot less but the replacement cost is considerably cheaper than the standard size batteries
Battery tips:
Never run your batteries completely flat,
When not using or storing the Mobility vehicle check and recharge the batteries monthly.
Always charge the Mobility vehicle after use and let the charger complete its charging cycle.
Never leave the charger plugged into the mobility vehicle while switched off at the mains.
Batteries VAT Exempt:
HM Revenue and Customs has recently clarified the situation regarding the charging on VAT on batteries and states.
There is…zero rate relief which applies to the service of repair and maintenance…..and for goods which are supplied in connection with the service. However, this zero rate only applies when the supply of the battery is……supplied as part of a wider service or repair and maintenance. It does not apply when, for example, a general purpose battery is simply supplied and installed.”
As batteries are not “designed for use solely by disabled people”, nor are they “designed solely for use in or goods which themselves qualify for VAT relief”, they are therefore not eligible to be exempt from VAT and therefore must charge VAT when selling batteries only
Insurance:
At the moment no insurance is required by law although it is recommended, some home insurance policies can provide cover but it is a limited cover and usually only covers theft of the vehicle etc.For a more comprehensive cover including Third party liability, Personal accident, Recovery costs etc.There are specialized insurance companies offering these types of policies.
Range:
All manufacturers quote a average range for their vehicles but please note this can be affected by the weight of the user, ambient temperature, terrain, tyre pressures, battery condition/charge,and condition of vehicle.
