Challenge

The project aimed to create a rugged, all-terrain electric wheelchair capable of unassisted rock climbing and navigating challenging environments for disabled adventurers. The vehicle needed to be both powerful and safe, with reliable energy systems and intelligent control for extreme outdoor conditions. As an initial real-world use case, the system was built to support an unassisted ascent of Mount Snowdon by disability advocate Nick Wilson - helping validate the platform in one of the toughest mobility scenarios.

Solution

Muon provided end-to-end service for the complete electronic and software system. Our team delivered:

• Selection and specification of high-torque motors delivering 1500 Nm per wheel 

• Performance calculations for gradeability, traction, and an operational range of 50 km 

• Independent 4-wheel drive configuration for superior off-road manoeuvrability and control 

• Custom motor controllers to interpret rider input and ensure smooth, responsive control 

• A dual-battery system with UN38.3-certified packs and smart battery management 

• Real-time data capture to monitor system health and performance 

Impact

• Breakthrough Accessibility: Delivered one of the most capable electric wheelchairs ever built, enabling access to terrains previously unreachable for wheelchair users. 

• Successful Summit & Awareness Impact: Supported the first unassisted wheelchair ascent of Mount Snowdon, raising awareness of accessibility challenges and the role of custom engineering in overcoming them. 

• Commercial Pathway Enabled: The project provided a proven platform and key learnings that are now driving development of a commercial-grade product. 

• Proven Performance & Reliability: Delivered a robust system that performed consistently in demanding real-world conditions, with no critical failures during the Snowdon ascent.