The WHILL Model Ci2 Powerchair is a cutting-edge chair that delivers advanced mobility devices that come standard with innovative features that help to improve the user’s ability to lead active lives while using the power chair. In addition, the WHILL Model Ci2 power chair has a distinctive look that no other power chair has. Along with the technical aspects of the power chairs, it sets itself apart from other power chairs you might be looking at.
This in-depth guide will explain all the features of the WHILL power chair and what you can expect if you own one. We will also explain how you can test ride this chair if you choose.
Editors Rating
4.9/5
WHILL Ci2 Power Chair
Looking for more information on the WHILL Ci2 Power Chair?
This guide, will cover the following:
- What the Ci2 power chair is
- What you should considered when buying this chair or any other electric wheelchair
- Review of the Ci2 Power Chair
- Features of the Ci2 chair
- Pricing
WHILL Product Lineup
- WHILL Model FI: This is a lightweight and very easy power chair to travel with in the WHILL lineup of power chairs. It can be folded easily, is lightweight, and comes with a great driving range.
- Model Ci2 is the newest model and is an impressive power chair that has all the features to keep you moving and comfortable wherever you go.
- Model Ci: This is the first Ci model and is a great power chair with excellent features in both comfort and technology.
- Model A: Great features, ride time, maneuverability, and comfort in a power wheelchair.
Who is the manufacture of the WHILL ci2 chair?
WHILL was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Satoshi Sugie and Junpei Naito are the two founders of the company. The two founders come from a transportation and engineering background. The founder’s experience explains why their mobility aids are advanced over other power wheelchair chairs.
WHILL has other products as well they are:
- Model FI
- Model Ci2
- Model Ci
- Model A
Editor’s Rating
4.9/5
WHILL Ci2 Power Chair
Looks Different than any other Power Chair
Visually the WHILL Ci2 power chair looks different than any other power chair on the market. The manufacturers of this chair have built a chair that looks completely different than your traditionally looking medical-style power chair.
The design is meant to be modern and high-tech that helps the person using the chair physically and mentally by giving the user a feel of power and strength in terms of look.
Technology driven
One of the major differences over other power chairs is that the WHILL Ci2 and other models use cutting edge techology. For example the CI2 has integrated phone apps along with security features that can control the power chair directly from your smart phone. This app has some very useful information like:
- Move the chair once you transferred from it
- How much battery power is left
- How far you have travelled in the chair
- Technical support can also access to troubleshoot
- Lock chair so only you can turn it on using your phone
One of the most unique features technically on the WHILL Ci2 Power Chair:
The front wheels are so unique that we do not think any other power chair has this. The two front wheels do not pivot. This means that each front wheel moves freely within the ball bearings. Because of this the wheels can slide side to side when the back rear wheels give them power. What does this mean for you? It means that this chair has some of the tightest during radius of an electric powered wheelchair.
Did you know
The Ci2 model can make tight turns with a turning radius of 29.9″ that is tighter than a typical scooter can make!
Portability of the power chair
The Ci2 power chair dissembles easily for transport and is a great power chair for those that want to travel for the day or for longer vacations because its dissembles in four easy steps.
Here is the process of disassembling the Ci2 power chair:
- Remove the battery
- Find the lever under the seat and raise the lever
- Pull the set upwards and off
- Pull the lever on the side of the battery towards you in order to separate the parts
These separates the power chair into lighter pieces for transport. The four pieces will be the following and each of the pieces weight:
| Piece | Weight (lbs.) |
|---|---|
| Seat Assembly | 26.9 |
| Front Drive Base | 38.8 |
| Rear Drive Base | 42.8 |
| Battery | 6.0 |
Cost of the Model Ci2
When it comes to pricing, the WHILL Ci2 chair is not cheap. This chair has a starting price of around $3,999.00. The Ci2 is expensive when looking at other types of power wheelchairs.
But having said this, we believe this chair warrants a higher price based on features, constructions, technology, portability, and rideability.
At the time of this writing the following items are included with each Ci2 purchase:
- Back rest cushion
- Seat cushion
- Arm rests
- Color side panels (5 option to choose from)
- Storage basket
- Built in horn
- Smartphone app
- Li-ion battery
- Battery charger
- IntelliCare service
WHILL Model Ci2 Performance
| Drive range | 11.2 miles / 18 km |
| Max speed | 5 mph / 8 kmph |
| Drive system | Two motor drive system |
| Turning radius | 29.9″ |
| Incline capability | 10° |
| Ground clearance | 2.25″ |
| Obstacle clearance | 2″ |
| Braking system | Electromagnetic |
| Max weight capacity | 300 pounds |
| Total width | 21.8″ |
| Total length | 38.8″ (With foot rest) |
| Total height | 29.3″ – 37.2″ |
| Seat (Length) | 22.4″ |
| Seat (Width) | 21.7, 23.6, 25.6″ |
| Seat (Height) | 18.9″ |
| Seat (Weight) | 26.9 pounds |
| Rear drive base (Length) | 23.2″ |
| Rear drive base (Width) | 21.7″ |
| Rear drive base (Height) | 11.8″ |
| Rear drive base (Weight) | 26.9 pounds |
| Front drive base (Length) | 28.3″ |
| Front drive base (Width) | 21.7″ |
| Front drive base (Height) | 10.6″ |
| Front drive base (Weight) | 38.8 pounds |
| Front wheel type | Omni-Wheel |
| Rear wheel type | Airless standard tire |
Other important specs
| Battery | Lithium-ion (25.3 v x 10.6 Ah) |
| Charging time | 5 hours |
| Battery charge cycles | -1.000 |
| Battery Wh | 269 Wh |
| Operating conditions | -15 – 40°C/ 5 – 104°F |
| Seat cushions | 158.75″ x 15.75″, 17.75″ x 17.75″ |
| Horn | Sound level> 65dB |
| Tail lamps | LED light (red) |
| Wheelchair class | A |
Editor’s Rating
4.9/5
WHILL Ci2 Power Chair
Accessories that can be purchased separately
All wheelchairs and power chairs have accessories that make riding and using a mobility device easier. For the Ci2 power chair you can get some of these accessories.
- Armrest covers
- Battery
- Lap Belt
- Battery charger
- Dust cover
- Smart key
- Joystick
- Cane holder
- Adjustable foot support
Some negatives from other users
No matter how great a piece of equipment is, there are always some drawbacks. With the Ci2 power chair, we have been reading a lot about the charging cord and batter location.
Considerations when choosing an electric wheelchair
Comfort
Some of the best reviews we have found are how comfortable the chair is. This is because of the adjustments that can be made to the seat heights and back height, and recline angle. In addition, the microfiber-covered cushion is soft and plush, and reviews have stated that they have had no pressure sores after weeks of use.
Adjustability to the power chair
A major plus to owning a Ci2 chair is the ability to adjust the seat, backrest, and armrests. In addition, the ability to move the chair to optimize positions for the user makes it comfortable. The chair can also have either a left or right control drive panel.
Drive time and speed
The drive time you get from a Ci2 chair is excellent. While there are long run times from other power wheelchairs, the Ci2 has more than enough drive time for almost any user at 11.2 miles on a fully charged battery.
Even on a full day of use, most users will find that 11.2 miles are adequate for a full day of fun and adventure.
This model has a top speed of 5 mph, and this is a tremendous top-end speed to keep the user safe while still being able to keep up with an average walking pace and then some.
In closing
The WHILL model ci2 Power Chair is a cutting-edge power chair with superior technology features that currently separate it from all other power chairs on the market. Those looking for comfort and more features than what can be found in the current power chair market will find this chair a real contender. While the price is high in terms of other chairs on the market, there is enough value with the features to make this chair a winner.
