Global auto components major MOBIS has partnered with NeoMotion, a startup incubated at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) that works on developing indigenous rehabilitative devices, to provide personalised motorised wheelchairs for 500 people with disabilities.

MOBIS has taken up this project under its CSR Initiative of ‘Accessibility and Freedom.’ More beneficiaries would be identified in other parts of the country.

The wheelchairs were handed over to the first set of 50 beneficiaries at MOBIS plant in Sriperumbudur, Chennai, recently. The wheelchairs, called ‘NeoFly,’ are custom-made after a clinical assessment of the beneficiary to provide the proper fitting and the correct posture. Further, a scooter clip-on device, called ‘NeoBolt,’ allows wheelchairs to be driven on the roads. This empowers them to complete their education, pursue employment opportunities and become empowered.

Under this project, 500 beneficiaries will be assessed and their NeoFly and NeoBolt will be handed over. Till now, more than 300 have been assessed in Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi. Through three camps, almost 100 units have already been handed over and training has been given to beneficiaries on how to use the product safely. The fourth such handover event was held at MOBIS factory at Sriperumbudur