ElectroGlide is an award-winning, motorized electric power-assist attachment designed for manual wheelchairs. It was developed by the Chicago-based industrial design studio Ono Ideas (also known as ONO Innovation Design) in collaboration with Guangzhou Yunshang Innovation Technology Co., Ltd.
The project has achieved significant critical acclaim, winning prestigious accolades including a Red Dot Award and a MUSE Design Award.
Design & Core Philosophy
Built around a minimalist, Y-shaped frame, ElectroGlide connects to the rear of the seat and attaches motorized modules directly to the wheelchair’s wheels. The studio utilized an intensive participatory research process—interviewing active wheelchair users—to translate personal experiences into four foundational design priorities:
• Remote-Free Operation: The device requires no separate joystick or manual controller. It automatically responds to the user’s physical push, providing seamless power assistance only when self-propulsion is initiated.
• Intelligent Effort Calibration: A companion mobile app allows users to adjust the exact ratio between their own physical effort and the electrical assistance provided, ensuring they still receive the health benefits of self-propulsion.
• Lightweight & Modular: To accommodate different contexts, it offers multiple configurations, including a modular unit that can be easily detached or transferred.
