Our Race Across Europe in a Series 5 documentary is premiering on our YouTube channel on 27th January at 7pm (UK time), and we’d really appreciate your support to help us get as many views as possible.

Last summer we sent four wheelchair users racing across Europe in Series 5 powerchairs, covering 10 countries and 18 cities in just five days, completing Taskmaster-style challenges for a chance to win a €1000 cash prize, and then turned it into a documentary. We’re biased, but we think it’s brilliant and definitely worth a watch!

4 Wheelchair Users. 10 Countries. €1000 CASH PRIZE! Who won our most EPIC challenge yet?

We’d love to run this competition again, and that will only be possible with everyone’s support. If as many people as possible watch the premiere, it makes a huge difference.

Ways you can help support the documentary:

• Click “Notify me” on the premiere page so you get reminded when it goes live
• Like the video once it’s live
• Leave a comment (it really helps!)
• Subscribe to our channel
• Share the link with anyone else you think would enjoy the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7MV6MW5j8I

Meet the Sponsors Helping to Power Race Across Europe in a Series 5

With just a few weeks to go until the Race Across Europe in a Series 5 begins, final preparations are well underway and we’re gearing up for an exciting few days! Behind the scenes, we’ve been busy working to get everything in place, from planning travel routes and finalising filming schedules, to booking accessible hotel rooms and ensuring the trip is comfortable, fun and worry-free for our competitors.

Travelling as a wheelchair user often means thinking several steps ahead. Stations, airports, hotels, extra luggage, transport links and toilets are just some of the logistics that need to work together for a trip to go smoothly. It takes time, research and the right equipment, but when everything comes together it opens up incredible opportunities, which is exactly what Race Across Europe is about! 

Of course, the race would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, who’ve stepped up to make this challenge achievable for every participant. These amazing companies are providing a wide range of support, resources and equipment to help us show just how far disabled people can go.

Carstens

Carstens is one of our key distributors in Germany and a long-standing supporter of high quality mobility products. The team have over 30 years experience, with five locations in Baden-Württemberg.

Their team has been instrumental in helping us prepare for the Race Across Europe, by providing a Series 5 powerchair for Katharina to use during the journey. Their local expertise and commitment to accessibility have made them an invaluable part of the race team behind the scenes.

They are also partnering with another Freedom One Life distributor, Rehaform, to deliver the Series 5 to Katharina and give her our full test drive experience before she gets to the starting line.

The Carstens team will be posting regular updates from the race on their Instagram channel, follow them to keep up to date with Katharina’s journey.

Follow Carsten’s Instagram 

Find out more about Carstens here

Lattrich

Lattrich is another one of our valued distribution partners in Germany that has agreed to support this challenge. Specialising in assistive equipment for care and rehabilitation, Lattrich are based in  the Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland regions.

For the race, they’ve supplied a portable shower and commode setup to help ensure the trip runs smoothly for one of our racers, and highlight some of the often overlooked but essential items disabled travellers need when travelling for a longer trip or holiday.

Find out more about Lattrich here

Handi-Move

Handi-Move develops innovative lift and transfer systems that offer safety, comfort and independence for people with limited mobility.

Find out more about Handimove here 

For this trip, we’re excited to have the Handi-Move team join us on the journey, as they will be supporting our contestant, Oli, with a hoist that will be available throughout the journey. Their technology ensures he can transfer comfortably wherever the team goes, which is a vital part of making the entire race accessible.

Keep up to date with Handimove’s Instagram during the race

Lightbug

Lightbug creates compact GPS trackers designed to work globally, without relying on WiFi or mobile signals. Our founder, Alex, has used their products to keep an eye on where his Series 5 is when flying for a number of years, and the Lightbug team kindly offered to sponsor Race Across Europe. 

They’ve provided trackers for all four competitors, so everyone can follow their progress in real time across Europe and you’ll spot the devices being fitted and used in our behind-the-scenes footage. Lightbug’s tech is helping us capture the journey, stay organised, and make sure everyone (and every powerchair) is where they should be!

Find out more about Lightbug here

BES Healthcare

BES Healthcare are specialists in postural support and assistive technology, and their products are helping our racers stay comfortable and secure throughout the challenge. We work with them on a regular basis for some custom options for our Series 5 customers.

They’ve provided a range of Bodypoint chest and hip belts, along with positioning straps, to help Haydn and Katharina maintain good posture. These are the small but important custom details that make all the difference.

Find out more about BES Healthcare here

CBF Darmstadt

CBF Darmstadt is a German non-profit dedicated to improving accessibility for disabled people, and one of their valuable services is the Eurokey system. Eurokeys unlock accessible toilets across Europe, removing one of the biggest barriers disabled travellers often face. They’ve provided keys for all four racers, and we’ll be sharing videos of the team using them on their routes. Their support is making confident, independent travel possible at every stage of the race.

CBF also offers an app that helps users find accessible toilets in unfamiliar places across Europe, a practical tool our participants will be able to make use of.

Download their EU WC Finder app here

Find out more about CBF Darmstadt here

A Huge Thank You

To all our sponsors – thank you! Your support isn’t just helping a few people travel across Europe, but showing what’s possible when disabled people are equipped with the right tools, support and belief. 

Want to get involved? Drop us a message to learn how you or your organisation can be part of what’s next.

Introducing the Four Competitors Racing Across Europe in Powerchairs

When we launched Race Across Europe, we had no idea just how many amazing, funny, and inspiring people would throw their names into the mix. What started as a plan for three participants has now grown to four routes, thanks to the overwhelming number of powerful and personality-packed applications received. Over four days, the chosen competitors will travel across Europe by public transport in Series 5 powerchairs, navigating cities, borders, and accessibility barriers, all while taking on daily challenges and scoring points for the chance to win a €1000 prize.

Why are we Doing This?

The Race Across Europe was created to show what’s possible when disabled people have access to the right support and equipment, and to challenge the outdated narratives that often surround mobility and independence.

Alex Papanikolaou, founder of Freedom One Life said: “I constantly hear how difficult and inaccessible travel is to disabled people, so I wanted to make a big and bold statement and really show what’s possible. With the right equipment, planning and support, we can lead the adventure!

“The four competitors we’ve chosen each bring something totally unique and I can’t wait to see how they take on this challenge. They’re not just racing across Europe, they’re changing the conversation around what freedom and accessible travel really looks like.

Meet the Competitors

Haydn

Co-founder of Happy Smiles Training, delivers disability awareness workshops and is racing alongside his close friend and business partner, Alex.

Kate

A cheese-loving bookworm and mum of two, Kate is embracing adventure after a few years mostly spent at home.

Oli

Oli is a competitive powerchair footballer for Newcastle United and England, and he’s ready to put his Series 5 to the test on new terrain!

Katharina

She is a fearless Berlin-based student, has skydived, danced, and studied theology, and is always chasing her next adventure.

What’s Next?

Thanks to the phenomenal response, Freedom One Life has already confirmed the competition will return in 2026.

To follow the racers’ progress this year, get behind-the-scenes updates and be the first to watch the show, follow @freedomonelifeltd on Instagram and YouTube.

Alex added: ““We’d also like to give a huge thank you to everyone who applied, your energy, humour and drive blew us away and we value each and every one of your applications. Running a business is full of difficult decisions, but this was a particularly hard one to make!”

Please note, entries for Race Across Europe 2025 have now closed. To meet this year’s competitors click here.

Enter our brand new Race Across Europe competition for a chance to win a €1000 cash prize and explore the continent! Three routes. Four days. One epic journey from the UK to Italy from 4th to 8th August 2025. We’re looking for enthusiastic, curious explorers who are up for documenting their journey and making unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller, or this is your very first adventure, Race Across Europe is the perfect opportunity to show what’s possible when powerchair users are given the equipment to live a life of freedom.

What’s Included

• A fully planned 4-day trip from London to Turin (4–8 August 2025) including return travel
• All accessible travel and accommodation arranged and paid for you
• €500 spending money
• A unique, pre-planned public transport route through some of Europe’s most beautiful and interesting places. You could be on the French Riviera, or on a train through the Alps!
• In-person support from our team throughout the journey
• A Series 5 powerchair provided if you don’t already own one
• We’re looking for enthusiastic, curious explorers ready to document their journey and show what’s possible with the right tools and support.
• Applications open Monday 5 May and close at 23:59 on 31 May 2025.

What You Need to Know

Do I need to plan my own route?

No need to worry, we’ll plan your route for you in advance. Each participant will follow a unique pre-planned journey from London to Turin using public transport. Everything will be fully accessible, with exciting challenges along the way. You could be in the French Riviera or on a train though the Alps! All you need to do is show up ready for the

Do I need to book my own transport and hotels?

Not at all – leave the logistics to us! We’ll handle all your transport bookings, from trains to buses, hotels and everything in between. All transport and accommodation will be accessible and checked by Alex, our inhouse accessible travel expert who we refer to as Mr Worldwide! You can focus on the experience, while we take care of the details.

Will I be travelling by myself?

You’ll never be on your own. Our friendly team will be with you every step of the way to provide support, keep things running smoothly, and help you navigate your route. It’s a shared adventure, and we’ll make sure you feel supported throughout.

What if I need additional assistance on my trip?

While our team will be with you throughout the entire journey to offer support, we understand that some participants may need extra assistance from a personal assistant. That’s absolutely possible. We’ll work with you on a case-by-case basis to make sure any additional support you need is in place, so your accessibility needs are fully met and you can enjoy the trip with confidence.

Do I need to own a Series 5?

No, you don’t need to own one. If you’re not already using a Series 5, we’ll provide one for you to use for the entire trip – fully set up, comfortable, and ready to go.

What if I’ve never travelled before?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller, or this is your very first adventure, Race Across Europe is a challenge which is accessible to all. Travel is often out of reach for many disabled travellers, so we will make the process as easy as possible for you. You’ll never be left to figure things out on your own, and we’ll make sure you feel confident and comfortable from the very beginning.

What if I’ve never tried out the Series 5 before and don’t know how to drive it?

If you are selected to take part, we will arrange an extensive test drive prior to the trip. You will be able to try out the chair in your own time too to get comfortable and feel confident to approach the challenge.

How do I get home after the challenge?

Once the challenge ends in Turin, we’ll arrange your journey home too. Whether that’s returning to London or heading somewhere else, our team will take care of the travel planning and bookings so you can relax and reflect on your adventure.

For electric powered wheelchair users, winter often brings a unique set of challenges – battery anxiety in the cold, the fear of being stranded in freezing conditions and the difficulty of navigating snow and ice. As the weather warms up, some of those worries melt away, but new concerns take their place. Overheating batteries can be just as frustrating as frozen ones, sometimes leaving you without mobility for months while waiting for a fix. While warmer weather can mean more outdoor adventures, rough terrain like sandy beaches or uneven trails can still be a major barrier to freedom. That’s exactly why we created the Series 5 – designed by a powerchair user who truly understands these struggles. Rain, snow, sand, or sun, the Series 5 lets you experience the freedom to live the life you choose.

Preparing your Powerchair

Spring is the perfect season to discover new accessible destinations, but before heading out, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Make sure you chair has sufficient charge before going out. Keep in mind that different weather and terrain conditions can drain your battery faster than usual, so it may be different from what you are used to.
• Travel with a charged mobile phone. A portable charger can be a great investment to make sure you can still contact people when you need.
• Research locations before visiting. Many public places will have websites or lots of information online. If you’re unsure about a place’s accessibility, reaching out via email or phone can provide clarity and prevent unnecessary stress. There are lots of sites and apps you can use to
• check the accessibility of different locations, like Accessable.
• Keep an eye on weather reports, but don’t rely on them to be accurate – the UK is unpredictable! Having some layers or waterproofs in case of emergencies is important to keep you prepared for anything.
• Travel with a friend or family member where you can, not only is it fun to enjoy outdoor activities with others, but it can also help you feel a lot more confident and gives you another person to help out in emergencies. If you are unable to travel with someone else, try keep
• someone updated on where you are going, your plans and estimated return times.
• Keep prepared with any essentials you may need in an easy to access bag. This may include any medication you may need, sun cream, portable batteries, water and snacks.

Accessible Places to Visit in the Spring

Many UK parks and trails have wheelchair friendly routes. Make sure to be aware of your own chair’s capabilities in different terrains, and do not take on routes that may be beyond your chair’s limits. In more remote location do not travel alone where you can, as it can be more difficult to get assistance if you need.

While many powerchairs will struggle on the sand, the Series 5 can be used on many beaches throughout the UK. The chair works especially well on pebbled beaches and hard, wet sand. The chair will struggle in soft deep sand, so it is best to avoid this as the chair may get stuck.

Boardwalks or beach mats are available at a lot of UK beaches, and are often a safe bet for enjoying the seaside. It is best to research potential beaches before visiting to scope out the location and see what is available to assist you.

Botanic gardens and public parks across the country often have well-maintained, step-free paths, as well as websites with detailed sections surrounding accessibility.

Theme parks in the UK have also come a long way in terms of accessibility. Many rides will be able to offer accessibility passes and a lot of rides will be adapted to help disabled visitors have the best experience possible. Again, it is best to look on individual park websites for guidance on accessibility. Some may request that you call in advance to give notice to the park of your accessibility requirements where others may be happy for you to show up on the day.

Museums and Zoos are a fantastic accessible day out. With the UK’s unpredictable weather, even in the summer, these are a great options as they can provide all-weather options with shelter from rain, cold or extreme sun.
No matter where you decide to go this spring, the Series 5 is designed to take you there. Say goodbye to seasonal mobility struggles and hello to new adventures!

Naidex 2025 is just around the corner and we’re excited to be back exhibiting at the UK’s largest event dedicated to disability and independent living. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham, next week on 19^th and 20^th March, Naidex is a must-visit for anyone seeking the latest innovations designed to support independence and improve quality of life.

Whether you’re navigating city streets, out in the countryside, or traveling internationally, the Series 5 powerchair is designed to let you live the life you choose. Our team will be on hand to answer your questions, demonstrate key features, offer expert advice, and of course let you test drive the Series 5 on the Naidex test track!

Meet our Team

You’ll have the chance to chat with some of the Freedom One Life team who will be more than happy to tell you more about the incredible work that goes into the Series 5’s innovative features. If you’ve ever wanted to know more about our commitment to creating reliable, powerful electric powered wheelchairs, this is your chance to ask!

We’re also offering live demonstrations and test drives throughout the event, giving you the opportunity to experience the power, precision, and comfort of the Series 5 first hand. If you’re exploring for yourself or even helping a loved one find the right mobility solution, stop by our stand for more info.

Why Visit Naidex?

Naidex is packed with informative seminars, interactive workshops, and a wide range of exhibitors focused on enhancing accessibility, independence, and wellbeing. Whether you’re seeking mobility solutions, workplace adaptations, or practical advice, Naidex offers something for everyone.

Come and Say Hello!

We’d love to meet you at Naidex 2025. Visit our stand, E150 to explore the Series 5 powerchair, chat with our team, and discover how Freedom One Life is redefining independence for powerchair users.

Follow our Instagram page here

Follow our Facebook page here

Click here to book your free tickets!

See you there!

Today, we’re excited to sit down with Gregor, one of the key members of our design team. Gregor joined Freedom One Life on in 2022 as a Design Engineer and has a background in Product Design Engineering. He is also behind many of the components and design elements that make the Series 5 powerchair a standout product!

We caught up with him to dive into his role and learn more about what he does!

Q: Hi Gregor! Let’s start with the basics: tell us a bit about your background and what led you to this role?

Gregor: Sure! I have a degree in Product Design Engineering, which has really shaped my approach to design and innovation. Before joining Freedom One Life, I worked on various product design projects, but when I saw the opportunity to help create something that could truly make a difference in people’s lives, I knew I had to be part of it. It’s been an exciting journey so far, and I’ve enjoyed every moment working with such a talented team.

Q: What does an average day look like for you at Freedom One Life?

Gregor: It usually involves a mix of meetings with the team, sketching ideas, and working with SolidWorks. SolidWorks is a computer-aided design software that I use to create components for the Series 5 powerchair. I also spend time using 3D printing technology to prototype and test some of the ideas we’re working on. It’s a really diverse role, and I love how every day brings something new.

Outside of the design work, I spend time in the workshop inspecting parts and testing the chair. I love seeing everything come together in person, so I often take the chair for a drive myself to get a real feel for the performance. I also collaborate a lot with other team members like Scott, our technical director, bouncing ideas around and problem-solving together.

Q: What’s your favourite part of the job?

Gregor: I love seeing the components I’ve designed being implemented onto the chair. It’s incredibly satisfying to watch something I’ve worked on come to life and contribute to the overall performance and design of the powerchair.

I’m really proud of designing a range of accessories that help improve our customers’ everyday lives. Whether it’s a small adjustment or a new feature, these accessories make the chair more adaptable to each user’s needs, and that’s something I take a lot of pride in.

Q: Thanks for sharing all of that, Gregor! Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share?

Gregor: I’m just really grateful to be part of a team that’s so focused on improving lives. Every day is a new challenge, but knowing that what we create can truly make a difference is incredibly rewarding. I’m excited for all the new projects we’ve got coming up, and I can’t wait to share them with everyone.

To hear Gregor’s full interview, and find out more about his role, be sure to check out the video Q&A below! Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes interviews with the rest of the team.

Winter is a season of adventure, but it can also bring some unique challenges for powerchair users. The colder temperatures, ever changing weather shifting from snow and ice to thawing mud, slush, and grit-covered roads can have an impact your chair, but with some regular maintenance and care you can breeze through the colder months. We’ve put together our top tips to help you take care of your chair at this time of year so you can get on with your day whatever the weather.

Monitor your battery performance

Colder temperatures can reduce the range and performance of your battery so it’s important to check regularly.

•       Don’t let the battery run completely flat and charge it every couple of days, even if you’re not planning to use it. If your chair isn’t going to be used for a longer period then it’s a good idea to isolate the battery and put the powerchair into flight safe mode. This is easy if you have a Series 5, simply turn the key on the left-hand side of your chair until you are ready to use it.
•       If you’ve been out in cold weather for a long period of time, don’t charge your chair as soon as you get home. Instead, you should leave it for at least an hour before connecting the charger, so the battery temperature has time to increase and give you a more efficient charge.
•      Never charge a battery that’s below 0 degrees as it can cause permanent damage. It’s very unlikely that your battery will be that cold because it is well protected, but if you’re outdoor for long periods of time you should check the battery temperature in statistics if you’re          unsure before charging.
•     If you’re charging in a garage, we recommend putting an oil heater on low near your chair just to keep the temperature up.

Check your tyres

Like a car, you should always check your tyres for wear and tear, especially during the winter months when you want to make sure that you can safely move over icy or wet surfaces.

•       Inspect your tyres regularly, checking the tread and for any punctures or damage that could compromise your traction.
•       Tyre pressure can drop in cold weather, so check this every couple of weeks to make sure you’re maintaining the correct pressure. For a Series 5 the recommended tyre pressure is 10psi hybrid, 5psi offroad and 35psi casters.

Protect and clean your powerchair

Snow, rain, and rock salt used for gritting icy roads have the potential to damage your powerchair’s electronics and frame.

•       Always try to wipe down your chair with a damp cloth and dry it after you’ve been out. This will remove any salt, mud and dirt from the bottom of the frame and around the wheels that could cause rust.
•       Try to keep your chair somewhere warm and dry when you’re not using it. If you need to store it outdoors, you should always use a waterproof cover to protect against the elements.
•       Never use a high-pressure hose or jet washer to clean your chair.

Plan your journey and stay safe

Winter weather can affect travel plans so you should always try to plan ahead.

•       Check the weather forecast before heading out and try to stick to routes that are well-maintained and accessible for powerchairs.
•       Always be extra cautious when travelling over ice – even if you know the road, path or street inside out and travel on it daily, you should always allow more time for breaking as it can take you longer to stop.
•       Carry a small emergency kit with essentials like a phone charger, gloves, hat and a waterproof blanket. If you have a Series 5, then this is easy with the handy side storage bags and built in usb charger!
•       If visibility is low then make sure to wear bright clothing so that you can always be seen.

Powerchair designed for all seasons

The Series 5 powerchair is built to excel in winter conditions. With its waterproof interface that can be used in the rain or snow, long-range battery, and hybrid capabilities, it’s designed to tackle snow, mud, and wet environments with ease. Its compact, public-transport-approved design ensures you can get about in any season, while features like the front and read lights keep you visible during shorter winter days. Whether you’re navigating icy paths or exploring new routes, the Series 5 provides the freedom and independence you need.

Ready to experience the Series 5 for yourself? Book a test drive today and see how it can transform your winter adventures!

As the festive season approaches, the Freedom One Life team will be taking some well deserved time to recharge and celebrate with loved ones. Here’s everything you need to know about our festive opening hours and how you can stay connected with us if you need support during this time.

Festive Closure

Our offices will be closed from 24th December 2024 to 3rd January 2025. During this time, we will not be available for standard queries, orders, or test drives.

Emergency Support for Series 5 Owners

We understand that your Series 5 powerchair is essential for your independence and enjoying the Christmas period with your friends and family. That’s why we’ve got you covered during the holiday break with our dedicated WhatsApp channel for emergency support.

If you experience any issues that require urgent assistance, simply reach out to us on WhatsApp, and one of our team members will get back to you as quickly as possible. While we might not have full access to our resources and may not be able to physically get to you during this time due to the nature of the nationwide holiday, we will do our best to guide you and support you until things reopen.

Getting in Touch

WhatsApp Support: 01412583150 or +44141258150.

Please only use this channel for emergencies during the festive closure. Non-urgent messages will be addressed once we return on 3rd January.

Share Your Festive Adventures with Us

Are you heading out on a festive trip, visiting loved ones, or exploring wintery landscapes with your Series 5 powerchair? We’d love to see how you’re making the most of the season!

Tag @freedomonelifeltd on Instagram and share your adventures with us. Whether it’s navigating snowy trails or spending time with family, we love to see how the Series 5 helps you live the life you choose. Your stories are why we do what we do and our community loves to see them!

Wishing You a Wonderful Christmas and 2025

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for their continued support this year. Whether you’re spending the holidays at home or embarking on an adventure with your Series 5, we hope it’s filled with joy, laughter, and good times.

We look forward to seeing you again in 2025, refreshed and ready to help you live the life you choose.

Merry Christmas from the Freedom One Life Team!

Save on the Series 5 throughout November and December* with our ex-demo sale!  We’re clearing out our demonstration stock to make room for our all-new Series 5 model in 2025, which means you can enjoy some savings on this high-performance powerchair before the end of the year.  

Whether you need a reliable powerchair for everyday use or a model that excels on tougher terrains, the Series 5 delivers.  Our ex-demo models are now available for just £15,995, saving you over £3,000 off the original price of £19,375 until 20th December!

Ex-Demo Model Features

Our demo chairs are packed with the premium features that make the Series 5 a standout choice: 

• Tilt and lift – enjoy greater comfort and convenience with customizable seating adjustments. 
• Grey Anthracite colour – a sleek and modern finish that complements any style. 
• Comfort cushion and active backrest – designed to keep you supported and comfortable during long days, whether indoors or outdoors. 
• Free bag hook included – a simple but practical addition for carrying your essentials on the back of your seat.

Get in Touch

Want to experience the Series 5 for yourself? Book a test drive and see why it’s the perfect choice. Simply get in touch with our team now to find out more or arrange your test drive!

BOOK A TEST DRIVE TODAY

*Offer valid on ex demonstration Series 5 models in the United Kingdom only. Discount applies to base price and excludes customisation options, accessories, and additional services. Sale ends 20/12/2024 at 11:59 PM GMT. Availability of items is limited and subject to stock. Discounts cannot be combined with other offers, promotions, or discounts. Orders must be fully paid at the time of purchase to qualify for the sale price. Freedom One Life reserves the right to modify or cancel this promotion at any time without prior notice.

We caught up with our Sales Manager, Matt, for a behind the scenes chat to find out more about his role at Freedom One Life. From meeting amazing customers to understanding the unique ways each person uses their powerchair, he’s dedicated to helping them live the life they choose.

Hi Matt, talk us through what a typical day looks like for you?

As Sales Manager my day can vary a lot, I could be anywhere in the UK doing test drives, delivering new Series 5s or simply giving support to existing customers. If I’m not out on the road then I am working from home, responding to enquiries from new and existing customers and booking in test drives. I’m also constantly in contact with the team at our head office in Glasgow to discuss orders and any custom requests we get, whether that is a walking stick holder, detachable trailer, or even custom paint colours and finishes.

What can a customer expect when they book a test drive with you?

When a customer requests a test drive on our website I’ll get in touch with them to arrange a time, date and place that suits them. The first thing I like to outline is that they are free to try the Series 5 anywhere they want, for as long as they need. I know that buying a new powered wheelchair can be a big decision, so it’s important to be confident in its ability to perform in the places you like to go. I have met a customer at their favourite park, visited the shops with another, and even gone for a dog walk to the beach to let them see how the Series 5 could fit into their life! 

I’ll start out with a demonstration, going through all the features and how to use the Series 5. I’ll then let the customer take the reins and try it for themselves, while we chat through their specific needs. Then, at the end of every test drive I like to sit down and go through all the available options to give customers a quote for a Series 5 that is built right for them.

What features are customers always impressed by once they’ve had a Series 5 test drive?

As soon as customers try it they always remark how comfortable and stable the Series 5 feels. Its ability to traverse various terrains whilst still being compact enough to fit indoors never fails to impress. Customers are also surprised to learn that the controller is completely waterproof so they wouldn’t have to worry about getting caught out in the rain anymore!

What do you think sets The Series 5 apart from other powerchairs on the market?

The design has been driven by the lived experience of a powered wheelchair user. Often when showing a Series 5, customers think why hasn’t this been done before, such as building the charger into the chair or having fully customisable driver profiles at the push of a button. The Series 5 design is completely user driven and we listen to feedback from both Alex and our existing customers.

What feedback do you hear most often from customers who’ve purchased a Series 5 powerchair?

When asking for feedback from existing customers, the main theme is how life changing the Series 5 can be. Its reliability gives people the confidence to go where they want and the Series 5 is full of features that make it convenient and easy when they do. Customers have been able to do things they haven’t done in a while, or ever, such as camping or going abroad without having to take a different chair.

What’s your favourite thing about your role?

My favourite thing about my role is all the great people I get to meet and seeing how the Series 5 can change their lives. I always enjoy receiving pictures and updates from customers after they have taken delivery of their Series 5. Once someone has received their Series 5 it doesn’t stop there, I enjoy staying in touch and provide support if needed, from care tips to travel advice.

Outside of work, tell us a bit more about you – any fun facts or interesting hobbies?

I have played rugby since I was seven, and I’m currently vice captain of my local team. I also recently started getting into golf but have a very, very long way to go before my debut at the Ryder Cup! At home I enjoy spending time with my wife and two cats, who love to cause chaos around the house.

If you’d like to try out the Series 5 and do a test drive with Matt, then get in touch below! 

Book a Test Drive here.

The Freedom One Life team were excited to attend the 2024 European Powerchair Hockey Championship last week in Slagelse, Denmark. The five-day event, featuring the world’s top eight teams kicked off on the 21st October and saw teams fight for the top spot, and a place at the 2026 World Championships.

The opening event, attended by various royal dignitaries including Princess Benedikte, got underway last Wednesday with a thrilling opening ceremony and speeches from Parasport Denmark president, John Petersson and International Powerchair Hockey (IPCH) chairman, Fabio Rodo. 

The Netherlands clinched the gold medal, for the 8th time, at the 2024 European Powerchair Hockey Championship, triumphing over Germany in an intense final yesterday. Despite Germany’s early lead, the Netherlands fought back, securing a 5-4 advantage and holding their ground for the win.

Powerchairs Made for Sports

Powerchair hockey is a growing global sport with around 20,000 registered players across 30+ countries, particularly popular in Europe, North America, and Asia.

The European Powerchair Hockey Championship highlights the importance of specialised powerchairs designed for high performance and durability. While regular powerchairs cannot be used for competitive sports, sport-ready models offer improvements in manoeuvrability, faster speeds, and can accommodate fast-paced and quick movements.  

Sport powerchairs are a great example of how new ideas in mobility create access to sports and empower people into a more active lifestyle, whether that’s on the court, field, and hockey rink.

Powerchair Innovation

Freedom One Life are champions of powerchair innovation, creating chairs that promote freedom and allow users to live the life they choose. The Series 5 is designed to tackle various terrains, as well as indoor environments and transport,letting users live life on their terms. Although the Series 5 does not currently have a sports model, its innovative features lay the foundation for further development that will continue to push the boundaries of possibility.

Find out more about the European Powerchair Hockey Championship here.