One of the most common questions we get is: “I drive a small hatchback; which of these chairs will actually fit in the boot?” It’s one thing to see a chair folded in a professional studio photo, but it’s another thing entirely to try and squeeze it into the back of a Vauxhall Corsa on a rainy Tuesday.
In 2026, folding powerchairs have become incredibly compact, but there is still a “technique” to loading them safely. Whether you are using the featherweight Drive DeVilbiss AirFold or the more robust KWK D09 Heavy Duty, here is how to manage the “boot challenge” without injury or car damage.
1. The “Small Car” Fit Test
Most UK “Superminis” (like the Ford Fiesta or VW Polo) have a boot width of around 100cm and a depth of 40–50cm.
- The Winner: The Drive DeVilbiss AirFold is the king of small boots. When folded, it measures roughly 79cm x 57cm x 32cm. It sits so flat that in many hatchbacks, you can still fit a couple of bags of shopping on top of it.
- The “Cube” Choice: The MAS Mobility Auto-Fold folds into more of a square “cube” shape. This is perfect for cars with “deep” boots but limited floor area, as it stands upright quite happily.
2. Step-by-Step: The Safe Lifting Technique
Even a “lightweight” chair weighs around 20kg–25kg. If you lift that with a rounded back, you’re asking for trouble.
Real-World Tip from User Reviews: Owners of the Lightweight Intelligent Powerchair frequently suggest the “Two-Stage Lift.” One reviewer shared: “I don’t try to lift the whole thing in one go. I rest the front wheels on the bumper first (using an old blanket to protect the paint), then I lift from the bottom and slide it in.”
The Process:
- Prepare the Chair: Ensure the power is OFF and the joystick is tucked away or removed.
- Positioning: Stand as close to the bumper as possible.
- The “Bumper Rest”: Tilt the folded chair and rest the top edge on the boot lip.
- The Push: Use your legs (not your back) to pivot the chair upward and slide it into the space.
3. Using Ramps for Heavier Chairs
If you’ve opted for the Voyager 185 Bariatric or the HomyKing Heavy Duty, lifting might not be an option, especially if you have a high SUV boot.
The Real-World Feedback: Users of the KWK D09 often pair their chair with a set of telescopic ramps. A verified buyer noted: “Because the D09 has great torque, I just put it in ‘freewheel’ and push it up the ramps. Or better yet, I leave the power on and ‘walk’ it up using the joystick while standing to the side. It takes all the weight off my shoulders.”
4. Protecting Your Investment (and Your Car)
The metal frame of a powerchair and the plastic trim of a car boot are not friends. They will scuff each other.
Real-World Tips:
- The “Bumper Protector”: Many users of the Adjustable Aerospace Chair recommend keeping a heavy-duty rubber mat or an old piece of carpet in the boot. Flip it out over the bumper before you lift, and you won’t have to worry about scratches.
- Tethering: Once the chair is in, especially a “zippy” one like the Soft-Start Auto-Fold, use a simple bungee cord to secure it to the boot’s anchor points. You don’t want 25kg of metal sliding around when you take a corner.
5. Summary: Which Chair for Which Boot?
- Very Small Boot (Fiat 500 / Toyota Aygo): Stick to the Drive DeVilbiss AirFold. Its slim profile is the only one that truly “disappears.”
- Standard Hatchback (Golf / Focus / Astra): The MAS Mobility Auto-Fold or the Lightweight Intelligent will fit easily.
- SUV / Estate: You can comfortably fit the larger MX-MAX All-Terrain or the Voyager 185.
Final Thought: If you’re unsure, grab a tape measure. Check the narrowest part of your boot (usually between the wheel arches) and compare it to the “Folded Width” in our product specs.
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