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We’ve all noticed an increase in the number of people using mobility scooters, and for good reason, a mobility scooter can greatly improve your lifestyle by allowing you to be independent, to go out and do what you want, when you want without being reliant on others.

If you are still driving but only use your car for local journeys such as shopping, going to the library, attending a social or recreational group or visiting friends, have you considered that a mobility scooter could be an ideal, cheaper alternative?

We need to compare the cost of running a car and a mobility scooter, so…

How much does it cost to run a car?

According to the AA’s official guide to car operating costs, the cost of running a car has increased an average 7.2% since 2010.

Based on the average distance travelled by New Zealanders of 14,000km per year, total annual running costs in 2011 for a small car (0-1500cc) in 2011 were $2,792, a compact car (1501cc-2000cc) $3,106 and a medium car (2001cc – 3500cc) $3,943.  If you factor in total fixed costs that include car licence, insurance, WOF and depreciation (based on cars up to five years old, older vehicles depreciation will be small and so fixed costs will be lower.  However, running costs may be higher due to more repairs required) the total operating cost for a small car was $7,374, a compact car $8,832 and a medium car $10,933. (Car running cost information taken from the AA’s car Running Costs Report 2011).

As we can see, cars can be expensive to own and operate, no matter how much usage they have.

How much does it cost to run a mobility scooter?

New mobility scooters cost in the range of $1800 - $4000 for a small or lightweight scooter, $3500 - $4500 for a mid-size and $4500 - $6000 for a large scooter.  Second hand scooters may be a cheaper alternative, although repair and maintenance costs may be higher, depending on the age and condition of the scooter.

What are the running costs for a scooter?  Mobility scooters run on two maintenance-free batteries that when charging use about the same amount of electricity as a 100 watt light bulb.  Therefore, your ‘fuel’ cost compared to that of a car, are minimal.  Apart from any repair and maintenance costs, the only other expenditure may be for replacement batteries.  Batteries generally last around two to three years depending on scooter usage.  New batteries currently cost in the region of $220 to $280 for 33Ah and 40Ah batteries respectively.  Therefore, replacement cost for two batteries would be approximately $440 - $560 (divided over three years, this equals $147 - $187 per year).

You may now be thinking that a mobility scooter would be a good, cost effective alternative to your car.  But there are so many sizes, styles and brands of scooter on the market, what one should you choose?

Some key points to consider when choosing a mobility scooter:

• Your physical build, in general a larger person will require a larger scooter

• The distances you intend to travel.  For long distances, a more powerful scooter may be the better option

• The terrain you will be driving on.  If there are rough or uneven surfaces, consider the scooter’s ground clearance.  Scooters with suspension will also greatly enhance driving comfort and ease of handling on rough ground

• If you live in an area with hills, you may need a more powerful scooter to ascend them easily

• Where do you want to go with your scooter?  If you intend to take it into shopping malls and shops, then a smaller scooter may be more suitable as it can manoeuvre easily in aisles and  between displays

• Where will you will be storing and charging your scooter?  If you have a garage, shed or secure covered area, then a larger scooter may not cause any difficulties.  But if you intend taking the scooter into your house, a smaller scooter will be easier to manage

• Do you want to take your scooter with you on holiday or to shopping malls etc. that are a long way from home?  In this instance a small, easy to dismantle scooter that can be transported in a car may be a good option.   A medium or large scooter will require an SUV type vehicle or trailer for ease of transport

• Do you require additional equipment such as a large bag for shopping, walking stick/crutch or oxygen bottle holder?  When looking at scooter options ask if these items are included in the price or are they optional extras at additional cost

• Is AA membership included in the scooter price?  AA membership offers peace of mind when out on your scooter.

 
At DRC Auckland our consultants are experienced in assisting people with information on the benefits of the different scooter models to enable you to make an informed decision on the best scooter to meet your needs.

You are welcome to visit our centre to view and have a go on our wide range of new and second-hand mobility scooters covering popular brands and models.  We also offer obligation free home trials in the Auckland region.  Our range of new scooters may also be viewed on our website.

Contact DRC Auckland

14 Erson Avenue, Royal Oak, Auckland

Phone: 09 625 0322
Email: drc@disabilityresource.org.nz

Information: www.disabilityresource.org.nz
Products: www.shop.disabilityresource.org.nz
Mobile Service locations: www.disabilityresource.org.nz/mobile

Published 13th Jan 2012

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