The Strutt ev¹ made TIME's Best Inventions of 2026 list for its autonomous navigation. This electric wheelchair uses sensors and voice commands to move like a self-driving car. It costs $7,499 and helps users travel safely. The makers said, "The ev¹ is designed to fit you" for better comfort.
The Strutt ev¹ stands out as a revolutionary invention, featuring an intelligent co-pilot navigation system that empowers users with unmatched independence. This electric wheelchair operates autonomously and adapts to diverse settings. Equipped with state-of-the-art robotics, sensors, and voice-activated controls, it offers unparalleled accessibility. Priced at $7,499, the Strutt ev¹ is available online, complemented by a test drive option.
Among TIME magazine's most popular Best Inventions of 2026 list, Strutt ev¹ steers clear into it.
Strutt ev¹ is the world's first electric wheelchair with intelligent co-pilot navigation. In simple terms, it is a smarter power wheelchair.
Strutt ev¹ featuresThis wheelchair operates like an autonomous AI-powered electric vehicle. The Strutt ev¹ web page describes it as a smart everyday vehicle, not a medical device. It works on voice-controlled navigation, evSense, collision avoidance sensors, and active front-wheel steering. The upgraded features make the mobility performance smooth indoors as well as outdoors with its 2 LiDAR, 10 ToF, 6 ultrasonic, and 2 cameras.
Strutt ev is built with advanced robotics and sensor technology with a powerful Quad-Drive System. As per the Strutt US page, "The Strutt ev¹c is the Smartest Next-Gen AI Power Chair with unrivalled stability, obstacle avoidance & voice command. Powered by intelligent Co-Pilot technology, 360 LiDAR advanced sensing, AI Assistant, and a Quad-Motor Smart-Wheel system, it helps users navigate indoor and outdoor environments with confidence, comfort, and safety. With award-winning design and human-centred engineering, the ev¹ sets a new benchmark for modern mobility."
Strutt ev¹: A smarter power wheelchair
Strutt ev¹ also incorporates assistive intelligence with co-pilot/co-pilot+, which is capable of detecting hindrances and obstacles efficiently. This wheelchair is smart in the true sense; it won't make you wait if someone stands in the way; it gently changes course.
This autonomous wheelchair features seamless steering adjustments through corridors and elevators. Strutt has auto-pilot, ev-pilot, Intuitive Touchscreen & Strutt App; the touch-responsive 4-inch LCD display shows a real-time 3D map of your surroundings, vehicle status, and a rear camera for confident reversing.
"The ev¹ is designed to fit you: 3 seat widths, 6 seat heights, 4 backrest heights, 3 backrest angles, and 3 armrest heights. The modular design separates into up to 5 compact modules with the heaviest piece at about 44 lbs -- easy to load into a vehicle for travel and storage," writes the Strutt ev¹ webpage.
"Will the doorway be too narrow? Will the pavement change? Will the elevator be crowded? If the ev¹ can quietly carry some of that mental load, [mobility] can become less stressful and more joyful," says Strutt founder and UC Berkeley physics Ph.D. Tony Hong, cites University of California page.
When can you buy and how much will it cost?You can order Strutt ev¹ on its website, priced at $7,499.00. They also provide you with a 'Test Drive' option before you make up your mind about a purchase.
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