IIT Madras, on July 16, unveiled ‘YD One’, touted as India’s lightest and first indigenously developed precision-built mono-tube rigid-frame active wheelchair. Weighing just 9 kilograms, this ultra-lightweight, customised, and energy-efficient wheelchair is designed to international standards, challenging the perception of wheelchairs as restrictive.
Built with aerospace-grade materials, YD One aims to provide high-performance mobility at a fraction of the cost of expensive imports, enabling greater independence and dignity for users. Each wheelchair is fully customised for the user’s body, posture, and daily mobility needs.
The launch event at IIT Madras was attended by Chief Guest Surgeon Vice Admiral Anupam Kapur, Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces), Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, and project pioneers.
“An inclusive society is fundamental for the prosperity of our country, and technology should play a crucial role in ensuring the same,” said Prof. V. Kamakoti. Prof. Sujatha Srinivasan, Head, TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development, IIT Madras, highlighted the vision to provide world-class, affordable assistive devices for Indian and global markets.
YD One will be manufactured locally by Thryv Mobility, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, ensuring bespoke and accessible solutions. The initial launch is supported by Trimble’s CSR initiative, providing the first 20 wheelchairs to deserving users, with future support from RRD and Schueco India.
