WeDrive, a new sharing economy website created by WHILL, takes that modern, internet-based system into a more niche area. WHILL makes high-tech wheelchairs, and the company is using WeDrive to connect potential consumers with current WHILL users and give them the opportunity to try out mobility devices in the real world.
Unlike in the case of cars, where test drives are easy to secure, wheelchairs and other mobility devices have a bad reputation when it comes to trials. Typically, users only get the chance to test mobility devices in rehabilitation centers — an environment that can hardly mimic the variability of the real world. With WeDrive, consumers can connect with one another directly to test out WHILL's products wherever they choose.
Wheelchair-Sharing Networks
WHILL's WeDrive Service Connects People in Need of Personal Mobility
Trend Themes
1. Personal Mobility Sharing - Innovative mobility-sharing networks, like WHILL's WeDrive, have the potential to disrupt traditional personal mobility sales and rental services.
2. High-tech Wheelchairs - Development of high-tech and advanced wheelchairs, like those made by WHILL, could revolutionize the accessibility and mobility industry.
3. Direct-to-consumer Testing - Direct testing and feedback between potential consumers and current users, facilitated by services like WeDrive, could transform how new mobility devices are developed and marketed.
Industry Implications
1. Mobility Devices - Sharing economy concepts within the mobility device industry have the potential to disrupt traditional sales channels and revolutionize accessibility modes.
2. Healthcare - Advanced, high-tech wheelchairs are an opportunity for the healthcare sector to provide improved accessibility and mobility to patients, while improving efficiency and patient satisfaction.
3. Consumer Electronics - Development of advanced mobility devices, like WHILL's high-tech wheelchairs, presents an opportunity for consumer electronics companies to diversify their product offerings and reach a new market segment.