0
0
Chennai, July 16, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has launched YD One, heralded as India’s lightest active wheelchair, weighing just nine kilograms. This innovative wheelchair offers complete customization tailored to the user’s body, posture, and mobility requirements, marking a significant advancement in assistive devices for differently-abled individuals.
Priced at Rs 74,700, YD One presents a highly affordable alternative to imported wheelchairs with similar designs, which typically cost over Rs 2.5 lakhs. The wheelchair’s frame is engineered from a carbon fibre and aluminium composite, combining aerospace-grade materials to ensure maximum strength, high energy efficiency, and ease of handling. Its lightweight design facilitates convenient lifting and stowing in cars, autos, and public transport, greatly enhancing user independence and mobility.
“This ultra-lightweight, precision-engineered wheelchair delivers performance formerly achievable only through expensive imports, but at a fraction of the cost,” said IIT Madras in an official release. It aims to replace the conventional heavy, hospital-style wheelchairs, often unsuited for long-term use and restricting users’ freedom due to their weight and lack of customization.
The development was a multi-disciplinary effort involving experts from mechanical and metallurgy departments at IIT Madras. The project was led by Professor Sujatha Srinivasan, Head of the TTK Centre for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development. She emphasized the global competitiveness of these well-designed products.
To facilitate mass production and market availability, IIT Madras has partnered with Thryv Mobility, a startup incubated at the institute. Thryv Mobility will manufacture the wheelchairs to global standards locally, ensuring accessibility for users across India and other emerging markets.
Supporting the launch, the Trimble CSR initiative is donating the first 20 YD One wheelchairs to deserving individuals, further promoting social inclusion and empowerment.
This launch builds upon IIT Madras’s ongoing commitment to transformative mobility solutions, including their previously developed customisable electric standing wheelchair, NeoStand, which enables users to transition from sitting to standing at the touch of a button, expanding possibilities for daily interactions and independence.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available from official IIT Madras announcements and verified news reports as of July 16, 2025. Product specifications, pricing, and availability are subject to change as per the manufacturer and market conditions. Readers are advised to consult official sources for the latest updates.
