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A magnificent Mobility Roadshow, say visitors
Jul 11th
A magnificent Mobility Roadshow, say visitors. The Etac team experienced a 30% increase in sales leads this year.
Once again the Mobility Roadshow has been heralded a huge success by visitors and exhibitors alike. Held last week (30th June to 2nd July) at the East of England Showground, Peterborough for the second consecutive year, there is no doubt that it has become a fixed calendar event for thousands seeking mobility solutions.
“Superb, an eye-opener”; “thanks for a wonderful show”; “we can’t wait for next year”; is the general theme of visitors’ comments flooding into Mobility Choice, the charity that organises this event.
Many were attending for the first time, including Helen and David Pell from Lincolnshire: “A great big thank you to you and your team for a fantastic event. The test drives all happened on time, advice was good and all the stand holders were happy to give their time to a newbie like me.“
Over 170 exhibitors showcased their latest products and services and on the test track was a selection of 60 adapted or converted vehicles to drive and compare.
VIP guest on the first day was Private Derek Derenalagi, one of the British soldiers who provided inspiration for the birth of the charity Help for Heroes. Derek lost both his legs in action and now with bionic legs is aiming for a place in the GB Paralympics squad. “This is the first time I have been to an event like this and I am so amazed at the technology we have to assist people like me,” said Derek as he explored the exhibitor stands and met visitors.
The Minden Band of The Queen’s Regiment delighted visitors on the first day with classic and modern tunes, looking resplendent in their ceremonial uniform – red jackets and bearskins.
“I am especially pleased that our new Design Zone and Mobility Information Service (jointly run by the Forum of Mobility Centres and Ricability) were big hits with visitors. Unique to the Roadshow, these are now firmly on our future agenda,” said Jacqui Jones, Executive Director, Mobility Choice. “We are delighted that the Mobility Roadshow has once again proved so popular and, most important, that so many said they rely on it each year as a valuable source for their future mobility needs.”
New Product Launches
As well as new vehicle conversions and adaptations, innovations being unveiled included what is thought to be the first powerchair that does not need a converted vehicle to transport it; an adventure bike said to be the first truly personal all-terrain vehicle and the world’s first upright Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) system set to revolutionise therapy for disability recovery and fitness.
Also on the launch pad was a new lift solution for WAVs; a new joystick steering system from The Netherlands; a new automated transport and retrieval system helping powerchair users in and out of vehicles and a new electric locking wheelchair restraint retractor that includes the world’s longest webbing belt.
As always at this event there were several new wheelchairs and scooters, cycles and bikes being unveiled and a new electric vehicle. A US company showcased a new ‘control bar’ concept to make driving a powerchair much easier.
Back in the UK especially for this event was the ReWalk™ ‘bionic’ walking system that allows paraplegics to walk and even climb stairs.
Hands-on experience
As well as vehicle test drives, visitors were able to discuss adaptations and conversions with specialists, try wheelchairs and scooters for comfort and safety, compare aids for the home, explore accessible travel and leisure, and gain valuable information and advice from support organisations.
The Cyclefest zone attracted more special needs cycles than ever – from tiny trikes to companion and wheelchair cycling, with advice from experts. The Go Kids Go! wheelchair skills sessions tailored to the needs of disabled children were also well attended.
Better by Design
Mobility Choice partnered with specialists Enabled by Design and Such and Such Design to introduce the new interactive Design Zone. It was a huge hit and now a permanent feature of the Mobility Roadshow. Here designers, innovators and visitors exchanged ideas about looks and functionality of current and future concepts for independent living products. The results of the ‘people’s choice’ Cool Wall votes will be announced shortly.
Accessible sport and leisure
The Sports Arena was abuzz throughout the three days featuring football with the England Wheelchair Football Team, basketball, tag rugby, dancing and sledge hockey; plus the accessible climbing wall, archery, laser clays, remote-control cars, a giant Scalextric, Nintendo Wii, and simulated flying. Visitors applauded the popular Red Wheelies Scooter Formation team display on the Saturday.
A new national photographic competition in partnership with the Disabled Photographers’ Society (DPS) was announced and the DPS stand was busy with visitors gleaning hints and tips on how to achieve great pictures.
Expert advice
All Meet the Experts informal drop-in sessions were well attended, some over-subscribed. They included Blue Badge and parking, assessment and adaptations, safe carriage of wheelchairs in vehicles; air passengers’ rights and ‘meet the actors’ with Julie Fernandez (The Office) and David Proud (EastEnders). Meet the Experts is here to stay.
Guest appearances
On Thursday and Friday another war veteran, Simon Angel MBE, was sharing his experiences on the TGA stand.
Celebrating National Young Disabled Persons’ Day (2nd July) David Proud announced the winners of the schools and clubs national Ready Willing & Mobile competition to help disabled people. With her bright idea for a young person’s woodland backpack 11 year old Zainab Khan, a pupil at Perry Hall Primary School, Bromley was announced outright winner from a field of over 300 entries.
TV presenter and Desperados and Dancing on Wheels star, Ade Adepitan, delighted visitors young and old with a special guest appearance on the Invacare stand on the final afternoon.
Keep in touch with news of the date and venue for the Mobility Roadshow 2012 at www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk
VEHICLE CONVERTORS DISPLAY MORE Q’STRAINT WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS THAN ANY OTHER BRAND AT 2011 MOBILITY ROADSHOW
Jul 6th
The Q’Straint Sales Managers met with high numbers of new and existing international customers at the 2011 Mobility Roadshow. Pictured from left to right – Alex Roth (Sales Manager – Benelux & Southern Europe), Phil Stratton (Sales Manager - UK and Ireland) and Heidi Kainu (Sales Manager - Scandinavia and Northern Europe).
For the first time at The Mobility Roadshow (Peterborough 30 June, 1 & 2 July), the presence of Q’Straint wheelchair and passenger restraints had risen to around 50% of all safety tie-downs displayed throughout the show, enhanced by a successful launch of the new QER 4000 Electrical Retractor on Stand E19.
Based in Kent, Q’Straint is renowned for providing the most universal and concise range of wheelchair restraint systems in the world for use in accessible vehicles from private WAVs and minibuses to coaches and public transport. Its brand values of quality, innovation and technical excellence have always been focused on one core benefit – to provide universal and easy-to-use restraint solutions. As a worldwide business supporting over 50 countries, The Mobility Roadshow has always been a traditional platform for Q’Straint to invite many international professionals to its product showcase. As around 50% of wheelchair safety restraints within accessible vehicles throughout the show were also Q’Straint, these international attendees were able to discuss with convertors why Q’Straint is the leading supplier of restraint systems to the private mobility sector in the UK.
Phil Stratton, UK and Ireland Sales Manager explained: “As we supply direct to the trade, our attendance at The Mobility Roadshow is predominantly focused on supporting our valued customers – the UK vehicle convertors and international distributors. The Q’Straint team and myself were delighted to see such a high number of our safety systems being demonstrated this year by leading accessible vehicle specialists such as Allied, Atlas, Brook Miller and GM Coachworks. It was also great to witness Q’Straint QRT retractors in action in less mainstream applications such as Draisin wheelchair/bicycle tandems. Through our unique international client base, 25-year heritage, world-class product design and renowned high levels of after-sales service, Q’Straint is growing its market share in the UK which was reflected in the number of QRT based systems on show at this year’s event. There is no compromise when you consider solutions that can save the lives of wheelchair passengers and hence, the majority of UK convertors are choosing the Q’Straint brand for trusted reliability, life-value and ultimately end-user peace of mind.”
Complementing the in-situ displays of Q’Straint wheelchair tie-downs, Stand E19 showcased the complete range of market-leading QRT retractors and hosted the launch of the latest Q’Winch and QER 4000.
The new QER 4000 Electrical Retractor encompasses the longest webbing belt in the world. This latest version of the world-class QER electric locking retractor now has an impressive 4m webbing belt which enables wheelchair passengers to be secured outside a vehicle on flat ground. This provides essential flexibility for use in M1 and M2 type vehicles where space is limited and securing a wheelchair can sometimes be hampered. Enhanced by simple J-hooks for efficient, universal attachment, the new QER 4000 system allows obstruction-free securement of a wheelchair following which the passenger is manoeuvred into the vehicle with the front belts already attached. The need for additional tensioning is eliminated as the belts are self-tensioning, which reduces manual handling, whilst increasing safety and stability for the passenger when the vehicle moves off. The QER 4000 from Q’Straint is expertly engineered with a zinc casing which is lightweight yet extremely durable and encompasses an extra lateral support bar for superior strength. To ensure efficient installation, the Q’Straint QER 4000 is compatible with all 12v vehicle electrical systems and can be integrated via one simple connection. Combined with one-bolt fitting and stress capabilities that far exceed current safety standards, this latest QER 4000 will be a leading choice for accessible vehicle convertors everywhere. A lightweight plastic cover is also available and other options include Tongue and Buckle attachments or Karabiners.
Mike Simmonds, Q’Straint Managing Director concluded: ‘The 2011 Mobility Roadshow has been a complete success for Q’Straint this year. Not only have we met many new and existing international customers from regions such as Asia, Europe and America, we have strengthened our relationship with UK-based vehicle convertors and raised brand awareness to the general public. Key Q’Straint figures have attended from abroad including Board Directors Jean-Marc and Eric Girardin, all of whom found the exhibition very rewarding. They also thoroughly enjoyed the exclusive Q’Straint annual drinks reception at the Orton Hall Hotel on the Friday evening, which delivered a professional, yet entertaining networking opportunity for many key figures across the industry. I would like to thank the exhibition organisers – Mobility Choice, the Q’Straint team and all our valued customers for making this 2011 event such a success.”
Q’STRAINT TO LAUNCH NEXT GENERATION QER 4000 ELECTRICAL WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINT RETRACTOR AT 2011 MOBILITY ROADSHOW
Jun 8th
Q’STRAINT TO LAUNCH NEXT GENERATION QER 4000 ELECTRICAL WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINT RETRACTOR AT 2011 MOBILITY ROADSHOW
On stand E19 at The Mobility Roadshow 2011 (East of England Showground, Peterborough 30 June,
1 & 2 July), Q’Straint will be debuting the latest generation of its QER 4000 electric locking wheelchair restraint retractor that now includes the world’s longest webbing belt.
Q’Straint is renowned for providing the most universal and concise range of wheelchair restraint systems in the world for use in accessible vehicles from private WAVs and minibuses to coaches and public transport. Its brand values of quality, innovation and technical excellence have always been focused on one core benefit – to provide universal and easy-to-use restraint solutions. The latest version of its world-class QER 4000 retractor now has an impressive 4m webbing belt which enables wheelchair passengers to be secured outside a vehicle on flat ground. This provides essential flexibility for use in M1 and M2 type vehicles where space is limited and securing a wheelchair can sometimes be hampered. Enhanced by simple J-hooks for efficient, universal attachment, the new QER 4000 system allows obstruction-free securement of a wheelchair following which the passenger is manoeuvred into the vehicle with the front belts already attached. The need for additional tensioning is eliminated as the belts are self-tensioning, which reduces manual handling, whilst increasing safety and stability for the passenger when the vehicle moves off.
The QER 4000 from Q’Straint is expertly engineered with a zinc casing which is lightweight yet extremely durable and encompasses an extra lateral support bar for superior strength. To ensure efficient installation, the Q’Straint QER 4000 is compatible with all 12v vehicle electrical systems and can be integrated via one simple connection. Combined with one-bolt fitting and stress capabilities that far exceed current safety standards, this latest QER 4000 will be a leading choice for accessible vehicle owners everywhere. A lightweight plastic cover is also available and other options include Tongue and Buckle attachment or Karabiners.
Mike Simmonds, Q’Straint Managing Director concludes: ‘The team and I are delighted to be showcasing the next generation QER 4000 for the first time at The Mobility Roadshow 2011. Designed with both the wheelchair passenger and driver in mind, the increase in length to 4m really will deliver a huge difference to private WAV users in terms of flexibility, safety and ease-of-use. Backed-up by Q’Straint’s universally compatible design ethos and the highest quality engineering, users of the QER 4000 can rest assured safety is maximised on every journey.”
Q’Straint to showcase extensive wheelchair passenger safety range at 2011 Mobility Roadshow
May 18th
Q’Straint QLK-150 drive-from-wheelchair docking system
On stand E19 at The Mobility Roadshow 2011 (East of England Showground, Peterborough 30 June, 1 & 2 July), Q’Straint will be demonstrating an extensive array of its world-leading wheelchair passenger safety solutions, which include the recently launched Q’Winch and enhanced 4m QER 4000 electrical retractors.
Q’Straint is renowned for providing the most universal and concise range of restraint systems in the world for use in accessible vehicles from private WAVs and minibuses to coaches and public transport. Its brand values of quality, innovation and technical excellence have always been focused on one core benefit – to provide universal and easy-to-use restraint solutions which is again demonstrated in several examples at this year’s Mobility Roadshow. Mike Simmonds, Q’Straint Managing Director explains: ‘We are delighted once again to be showcasing our complete portfolio at the Roadshow as it always delivers a unique platform for us to discuss wheelchair passenger needs with both commercial representatives and end users alike. It is essential for us as a pro-active, diligent organisation to remain in touch with the needs of the end user so that maximum comfort and safety is maintained whilst also clearly understanding the requirements of commercial fleet operators, drivers, body builders and specifiers. We believe the 2011 Mobility Roadshow will again be a success for Q’Straint and the team are proud to be presenting the recently launched Q’Winch and enhanced QER 4000 electrical retractors at the event for the first time.”
The Q’Straint wheelchair passenger safety systems being showcased at this year’s event include –
Q’Straint Q’Winch
Simple-to-use and universal-in-design, the new Q’Winch from Q’Straint provides efficient access for wheelchair occupants into vehicles up a slope or ramp. The Q’Winch consists of a highly durable motor and gearbox mounted on a base plate which houses 5 metres of webbing wound around a bobbin. This webbing can be attached to any wheelchair securement point via two tongue and buckle or karabiner hooks. Winch operation is straightforward and controlled by an ergonomic hand-held console that is connected via a robust coiled cable.
With its low profile and compact dimensions of only 146mm (h) x 146mm (w) x 302mm (l), the new Q’Winch is compatible with all wheelchairs. It provides full positional control during both inwards and outwards motion; a ‘soft’ start/stop and a gradual slow down for the last phase of movement. To ensure the wheelchair occupant is comfortable with the transfer at all times, the Q’Winch has variable speed settings from 40 to 100%, which is controlled by easy-to-understand icons. It can also be programmed to stop and start in any position to suit the vehicle type, ensuring perfect passenger housing every time. The console encompasses a rugged, splash resistant case and connector, which ensures the Q’Winch will withstand higher levels of general wear and tear.
From an installation and servicing point of view, the new Q’Winch also delivers an improved experience. The Integrated ECU (Control Unit) is now fixed onto the base of the winch and can be easily removed if required for servicing. Hence this part does not need a separate fixing area and the winch can be secured quickly to the vehicle floor via four bolts. Fast ECU connections are also now possible which again reduces installation time.
Q’Straint QRT Standard wheelchair restraint system
The QRT Standard is a universal, non-automatic retracting restraint for securing wheelchairs or powerchairs. It is supplied as a set of four identical retractors that can be placed either at the front or rear of the wheelchair and each provide easy-to-grip single knobs for manual tensioning. The QRT Standard is engineered with a durable yet lightweight zinc cover, incorporates a simple ‘J type’ hook configuration and a PLI (Positive Lock Indicator) in the foot, which clearly displays when the floor fitting is secured properly. All of these features ensure the retractors can be fitted easily, quickly and eliminates compatibility concerns. The QRT can be supplied with accompanying static lap and shoulder belts if required and has a one-year warranty.
Q’Straint QRT Deluxe wheelchair restraint system
The QRT Deluxe incorporates all the features of the Standard version with the addition of automatic self-tensioning and locking retractors. These retractors are designed as with all products in the QRT range, with a low profile so that they provide maximum clearance for wheelchair foot rests. The Deluxe version includes two zinc knobs for final tension adjustment if preferred.
Q’Straint QRT Max wheelchair restraint system
The QRT Max features all the elements of the Deluxe model including fully automatic self-tensioning and locking retractors. Without the need for any manual adjustment, the four QRT Max retractors in a single kit provide the quickest, single-handed operation on the market and also self-tension if any small amount of slack occurs during transit. As with all three versions, the QRT Max system comes with ‘J type’ hooks instead of Karabiners, as the latter are prone to incorrect locking which results in reduced strength.
Q’Straint QLK-150 drive-from-wheelchair docking system
Suitable for drive-from-wheelchair applications, this is the next generation model of the world-leading docking system from Q’Straint. It incorporates easier installation, a dash mounted membrane control unit and enhanced mechanics and electrical components for an improved passenger and installer experience. It is currently the strongest docking system in the world and has been successfully crash-tested to exceed ISO 10542 and SAE J2249 requirements. The new QLK-150 will secure most manual and powerchairs and is supplied with a two-year warranty.
Q’Straint QER 4000 Electric wheelchair restraint systems
The QER 4000 from Q’Straint is the world’s first 4m front electrical locking retractor for the easy securement of wheelchairs in vehicles. Each QER 4000 delivers an impressive 4m self-tensioning belt, which is ideal for front wheelchair securement in smaller vehicles where space is limited. The QER 4000 is available with a zinc or plastic cover which both provide a lightweight yet extremely durable housing, whilst its extra lateral strength bar offers superior safety and stability. To ensure efficient installation, the Q’Straint QER 4000 is compatible with all 12v vehicle electrical systems and can be integrated via one simple connection. Combined with one-bolt fitting and stress capabilities that far exceed current safety standards, the QER 4000 from Q’Straint is a leading choice for accessible vehicle specialists.
Sir Stirling Moss drives again at The Mobility Roadshow 2010
Jul 13th
Still recovering from broken ankles following his recent and unfortunate fall down his own lift shaft, Sir Stirling Moss had the privilege of opening The 2010 Mobility Roadshow last Thursday in Peterborough. Following an opening speech that contained Sir Stirling’s usual sharp wit, he relaxed and enjoyed a chauffeur-driven tour of the show on a 2-seater TGA Supersport courtesy of TGA Electric.
Apparently Stirling was ‘absolutely fascinated’ with the variety of mobility products on display and ‘marvelled at how technically advanced many of the solutions are these days.’ In fact, pound for pound modern day mobility scooters are more advanced technically than the Formula One cars Stirling drove in the 60’s. Obviously not as fast though.
Tim Ross of TGA said, “We were delighted to welcome Sir Stirling onto our stand and assist him around the show. He explained to me the marvellous and inventive mobility solutions he had seen on our stand and around the show and concluded that his recent accident proved restricted mobility can happen anytime – hence experiencing The Mobility Roadshow was a must.”
It’s difficult when you’re a retired Formula One driver
The Mobility Roadshow was held earlier this month at the East of England Showground, Peterborough. Free to attend, the Roadshow is the only event of it’s kind in the UK where visitors can test drive a whole range of mobility products and adapted vehicles before purchasing. There was plenty to get involved with at this year’s show which included wheelchair basketball, rugby, tag rugby, sledge hockey, wheelchair dance and skills sessions for younger visitors. Plus in the Activity Zone you could try your hand at laser clays, archery, the climbing wall, adapted go-karts and a 4×4 experience.
The weather was great for all three days, which was fantastic for visitors, but left a few exhibitors red-faced and white-strapped from a lack of suntan cream.
Many exhibitors launch new products at the Roadshow, which means you get to see the latest innovations in mobility technology before they reach the market. My favourites? There were some good offerings from Aquasoothe especially its unbelievably light portable scooter called the TravelLite which splits into 3 parts (so it can easily be taken on trains and planes); More Than Mobility with its stunning range of electric wheelchairs; TGA and its Supersport; Portaramp (lightweight wheelchair access ramps); and Q’Straint (world leader in wheelchair passenger safety solutions) – all launched new products this year that resulted in high levels of interest, especially when visitors could touch and test products before purchasing.
Aquasoothe’s TravelLite which weighs just 25 kilogrammes
As ever, The Mobility Roadshow provided a great day out (for the whole family) and will do the same next year. Just remember to take your suntan cream!
Get ready for launch at the 2010 Mobility Roadshow!
Jun 21st
At the East of England Showground Peterborough, 1-3 July, the 2010 Mobility Roadshow will again be the location for you to find all the latest mobility products under one roof.
All the leading specialists will be there with new products and you have the unique opportunity to test-drive many of them before purchase within the outdoor arena. This is the only event of its kind in the UK and will be opened by Sir Stirling Moss. Go along and maybe you can see whether you can beat Sir Stirling round the racetrack!
There will be a vast selection of new products on display, everything to help you with mobility and includes stands from specialist companies such as TGA, Portaramp and Q’Straint and Otto Bock to name a few.
TGA, the market leading scooter specialist from Suffolk will be launching the new funky Vita 3 which is a real eye-catcher. Its 4 wheel sister model has proved so popular for people who want a modern, stylish scooter that is really cool-looking, TGA knew they had to launch a more manoeuvrable 3 wheel version. Engineered with components from the automotive industry, the Vita 3 would look at home on Top Gear as it is so radically different – go and have a test drive but try not to wheel spin as much as Clarkson!
TGA’s Vita 3
Also on display from TGA will be the rest of its outstanding range that includes the latest Breeze 3 and 4 Midi’s, the enhanced Eclipse car boot scooter that can be personalised and the revolutionary, redesigned wheelchair powerpack.
Perfect for relieving the strain of pushing a wheelchair-using-friend or relative, the new Powerpack from TGA is even easier to drive, has better traction and is simple to fit to any wheelchair. Copied but never equalled, this latest generation model looks great and is fantastic for tackling grass, gravel and hills. Even Clive Burr the ex drummer from Iron Maiden has one and says it’s the best thing he has ever bought – how’s that for a unique endorsement!
For some added celebrity glamour, ‘Marilyn Monroe’ will be appearing on the TGA stand on the first day. Not only will there be a competition to win movie tickets, if it’s your birthday you may even be lucky enough to receive a rendition of her infamous song!
In addition to mobility scooter specialists such as TGA, there will be exhibitors demonstrating all the other latest products to keep you mobile. Portaramp for example will be launching two new ramps, which are high quality, extremely durable yet lightweight and give access to your home, work or vehicle if you use a wheelchair, scooter or powerchair.
Q’Straint is an international leader in wheelchair restraint systems for all types of transport and will be launching the new QLK-150 wheelchair docking system. This enables less able individuals who can drive a car with the ability to safely secure themselves without the need to transfer into a standard vehicle seat – very impressive.
So all in all, everyone going to this event should have a great time. Just remember however much you enjoy your test drive, don’t drive off onto any dual carriageways as that guy did in Essex last week. Avoid an Asbo, enjoy the Expo instead!
Finally, for more information on mobility scooters, don’t forget to visit Mobility Compare’s mobility scooter price comparison guide. Also, don’t forget to download Mobility Compare’s scooter buyer’s guide!
Thanks to Jon for the guest post…..
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