Japanese startup studio Quantum has updated its innovative Wheeliy wheelchair, making it lighter and easier to use, as well as adding features including armrests that act as brakes.

Wheeliy 2.0 is an evolution of the original chair developed by Quantum in collaboration with medical and welfare equipment manufacturer Molten.

The wheelchair features on the product design shortlist at Dezeen Awards 2022.

The chair is designed to be easy to use by both wheelchair users and the people who support them, with its reduced weight and simple mechanisms making movement and folding more straightforward.

"Wheeliy 2.0 is a wheelchair that further evolves the concept of the previous model of achieving unrestricted mobility in society," Quantum said.

"Lightweight, in the eight-kilogram range, the new model has excellent mobility and reduces the burden of folding and carrying."

The chair uses magnesium for the main frame and carbon fibre for the wheels to achieve a weight reduction of approximately two kilograms from the original design.

Other upgrades include armrests that function as brakes when pushed down and footrests that can be lifted with a single movement.

Wheeliy 2.0 retains some of the key features of the previous model, including the yellow accents that help those unfamiliar with wheelchairs to operate it intuitively.

The colourful details provide a visual indication of how to hold and lift the chair stably, as well as aiding the folding process.

An increase from two to four colour options for the wheelchair's frame introduces greater choice to the range, allowing users to select a colour that suits their personal tastes.

The overall design language remains consistent, with the S-shaped frame, three spokes and yellow accents aiming to provide continued brand recognition.

"Wheeliy 2.0 retains the core design of the previous model, but with an even greater focus on improving comfort when out and about," Quantum added.

"The design blends in with the city, making you want to go further and creating more comfort for the user and those who support the user."

Tokyo-based Quantum was founded in 2016 and creates new products and services through creativity-driven business development. The studio helps various companies and organisations with strategy and product development, as well as launching its own businesses as venture builders.

The photography is by Akihiro Kawauchi.

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