Turbocharging The C500: Why The Names "Shelby," "Permobil" And "Sherman Oaks" May Soon Become Synonymous...

While identifying my own physical challenge, I also identified a cultural barrier: Disabled community members are motoring enthusiasts, just as much as any abled hot-rodder, but they have no actual outlet!

That's probably because we're not speaking-up. But the time for writing our genuine, heart-felt love letter to the power chair market is definitely ripe, and while that industry's equipment has simply skyrocketed over the last 35 years, there's still an empty chasm, where a performance department should exist.

I don't think anyone blames the power chair market; it's just that people and things are changing, and the active body of disabled motor heads has arrived, just in time for 2016, with a whole new parts-and-price list.

It's not a hard one, but do make sure to call Permobil directly, if you're looking to buy the factory performance upgrade on their independently-coiled, C500 power chair. And if technicalities are what they say, then this factory upgrade, parts # 1823394 (Right motor), and 1823395 (left motor) should bring Permobil's current, C500 unit to a top speed of around 6.5mph, with a sustainable battery range of 24-25 miles per charge.

As for myself, I am satisfied with the C500 platform, though I must admit that I am ready for any performance boost that I can get. The performance pack for the C500, as described above, may be nearly impossible to get through insurance, but as an insider, I'm willing to test it. Consequently, I am in the process of trying to get my insurance to sponsor the Permobil, motor upgrade, based on my inability to use public transportation.

In analogy, Permobil's controller/motor upgrade should be, to the C-frame, what the "turbo" option is to the Kia Optima. That's a bit optimistic, but let's try it on for fun and see anyway, shall we?!