Afikim Afiscooter Solar Review: The Mobility Scooter That Charges in the Sun

What if your mobility scooter could top up its own battery while you ride through the park, run errands or sit outside with friends? That's the idea behind the Afikim Afiscooter Solar, which Kellon from our Electric Wheelchairs USA team calls one of the coolest mobility scooters he's ever seen.

The Afiscooter Solar takes Afikim's popular S4, one of the best heavy-duty, all-terrain scooters on the market, and adds a hard top canopy with built-in solar panels. It keeps charging whenever light hits the panels, whether you're riding or parked.

Kellon reviewed the Afiscooter Solar in two videos. This article brings together everything he showed, along with the official specs and realistic expectations for solar charging.

What Is the Afikim Afiscooter Solar?

The Afiscooter Solar is a heavy-duty, four-wheel mobility scooter from Afikim with an integrated solar canopy. Underneath, it's the same scooter as the Afiscooter S4, with the same controls, seat, suspension and storage. The difference is the canopy on top, which provides shade and rain protection and generates solar power for the batteries.

Afikim has offered a hard top canopy on its scooters for years. Adding solar panels to it is something Kellon calls a first for the industry, and it's something our team and customers are genuinely excited about.

Afiscooter Solar Specs at a Glance

*Price at the time of writing. Please check the product page for current pricing and specials.

How Solar Charging Works

Solar panels are built into the top of the canopy and wired to the scooter's batteries through a smart charge controller. Whenever light hits the panels, they send a small, steady charge to the batteries. That happens:

• While you ride. The panels keep charging as you drive, extending how far you can go.

• While you're parked. Leave the scooter outside while you shop, visit or relax, and it keeps charging.

• On cloudy days. It won't charge as much as in direct sun, but the panels still produce power as long as there's light. Kellon filmed it charging on an overcast day.

• Even indoors. In a warehouse under indoor lighting, Kellon showed the panels still producing a slow trickle of power.

You can still plug the scooter in anytime using the charging port on the tiller. Plugging in charges much faster than solar alone, so the two work together.

What to Expect From Solar Charging

It's important to have realistic expectations. Solar charging is a slow, steady boost, not a replacement for a wall outlet. According to Afikim, the solar panels can add up to 30% extra charge while riding, or up to about 3.7 extra miles per charge.

Kellon's on-camera readings show just how gradual it is. On a sunny day, the panels sent about 0.4 amps (roughly 10 watts) to the batteries. On an overcast day, the reading was about 0.17 amps. As Kellon put it, it's a slow charge, "but it's better than nothing" because it happens automatically, all day long.

The real benefit is convenience and extra range. If you ride shorter distances in a sunny climate and park outdoors, the solar canopy helps keep your batteries topped up between regular plug-in charges, so you're less likely to run low and your batteries spend more time well-charged.

The Smart Solar Meter

The Afiscooter Solar includes a smart meter that shows exactly what the solar system is doing. Press the select button to cycle through the screens:

• Charging status (main screen): a solar panel icon with filling bars and an arrow shows that sunlight is charging the battery, along with the battery voltage. Kellon says this is the screen you'll use most.

• Solar panel voltage: how much voltage the panel is producing

• Battery voltage: the current battery voltage. About 26 volts means fully charged.

• Battery percentage: a precise charge level, such as 84%

• Amperage and wattage: how much power is flowing into the battery right now

• Temperature: the outside temperature

Helpful tip: The smart meter is more accurate than the battery gauge on the tiller's digital dash. The dash shows "full" whenever the batteries are at 80% or higher, while the smart meter shows the exact percentage, so you'll know when you're truly at 100%.

Who Benefits Most From a Solar Scooter?

The Afiscooter Solar is a great match if you:

• Live in a sunny climate such as Florida, Arizona, Texas or California

• Park your scooter outdoors or in a carport

• Spend long stretches outside, at the park, the golf course, a campground or around your community

• Use your scooter as your main way of getting around and want extra range and peace of mind

• Want shade from the sun and protection from the rain

If you store your scooter in a garage and ride mostly indoors or at night, you'll still enjoy the S4's performance and the canopy's protection, but you'll get less benefit from the solar panels.

The Canopy: Shade, Rain Protection and Solar Power

The hard top canopy is useful even beyond solar power. It shields you from the sun on hot days and from light rain, and it includes a windshield in front.

For full weather protection, you can add rain sides. They go over the canopy and create an enclosure around the scooter. The newer rain sides include clear sections, so the panels can still collect light while you stay dry. If your scooter is your primary transportation, the canopy and rain sides together let you ride rain or shine.

One important note: the canopy is drilled into the front and back of the scooter, so it isn't designed to be easily removed. Adding a canopy to a scooter later is possible but not recommended. It's best to decide at the time of purchase.

Also keep in mind that with the canopy, the scooter stands about 65 inches tall, so measure your garage door, carport or storage area.

Built on the Afiscooter S4

Beyond the solar canopy, the Afiscooter Solar has all the same features as the S4, which Kellon calls arguably the best all-terrain mobility scooter on the market.

Performance

• 1,400-watt brushless motor with a top speed of about 9.3 mph (Kellon measured close to 10 mph)

• Two speed ranges: a half-speed setting of about 5 mph and a full-speed setting

• Adjustable front and rear spring suspension for a smooth ride on rough ground

• 5 inches of ground clearance and pneumatic tires

• Optional golf tires for more traction on grass, gravel and dirt

Controls

The throttle is on the right side. Squeeze it to accelerate, and the electromagnetic brakes engage automatically when you let go. They hold the scooter in place even on a steep hill. A red supplemental hand brake on the left gives extra peace of mind, though Kellon says you'll rarely need it.

The tiller includes a forward/reverse switch, a speed control, horns on both sides, a headlight and taillights, left and right turn signals, hazard lights, dual USB charging ports and two cup holders. Everything shows on the digital dash. The tiller adjusts toward or away from you with a thumb button.

Safe Turning (Curve Assist) Technology

The Afiscooter Solar can include Afikim's curve assist feature, which you turn on or off with a switch on the tiller. When it's on, the scooter automatically slows down if you take a sharp turn at full throttle, then returns to full speed once you straighten out. In Kellon's test at half speed, it slowed from about 5 mph to about 3 mph through a U-turn.

It's a helpful safety feature, especially for newer riders. At the time of Kellon's video, it was available at no additional charge on request, so let us know if you'd like it.

Seat and Comfort

The captain's seat is built like a luxury car seat. It slides forward and back, swivels for easier transfers, and has flip-up armrests with an adjustable angle dial. The standard seat is 20 inches wide, and Afikim offers wider seat options, including 22" and 24" seats and a dual seat on the S4. Ask our team which seat options are available for the Solar model.

Storage

You get two lockable storage compartments, a large one at the back and a smaller one at the front. The new canopy design lets the front compartment open wider than before. A universal 1" x 1" accessory hitch and an optional larger storage tote are also available.

Freewheel Button

Instead of a freewheel lever, the Afiscooter uses a button. If you ever run out of battery power, hold the button down and the scooter can be pushed. It's a heavy scooter, so you may want help.

Battery Options

The Afiscooter Solar comes with two 12V 105Ah sealed lead acid batteries, rated for 36 to 38 miles per charge. As Kellon notes, that's more than enough for almost anyone's day. With good charging habits, sealed lead acid batteries typically last around 2 to 3 years, and the solar canopy makes it easier to keep them well charged.

Afikim also offers lithium battery upgrades, which are lighter and longer-lasting. Newer lithium options include smart technology that lets you check your battery level from an app on your phone. Call our team for current lithium options, pricing and range.

Learn more about battery care in How Long Do Mobility Scooter Batteries Last?

Customization Options

• Golf tires for extra traction off-road

• Rain sides for a full weather enclosure

• Foot pedal throttle that lets you accelerate with your foot

• Left-hand throttle for left-handed riders

• Larger storage tote in place of the rear compartment

• Cell phone holder, cane holder and other hitch accessories

• Curve assist safe turning technology

Afiscooter Solar vs. Standard Afiscooter S4

If you mostly want the S4's performance and don't need solar, the standard S4 or the S4 with hard top canopy may be the better value. If you want the added range and convenience of solar charging, the Solar model is the one to choose.

Tips for Getting the Most From Solar

• Park in the sun. Whenever you stop, choose a sunny spot over a shady one.

• Keep the panels clean. Dust, pollen and leaves reduce how much light reaches the panels.

• Still plug in regularly. Use solar as a boost, and plug in overnight when your battery gets low.

• Check the smart meter. It shows your true battery percentage and whether the panels are charging.

• Plan around the weather. Expect less solar charging during cloudy or short winter days.

Pros and Cons

Warranty and 3-Year In-Home Service

The Afiscooter Solar comes with a 3-year limited warranty covering the structural frame, fork, seat post, tiller frame, transaxle, motor and brake. The batteries have a separate 13-month manufacturer warranty.

Best of all, when you purchase from Electric Wheelchairs USA, you receive 3 years of in-home service, exclusive to us. If something goes wrong in your first three years and it can't be resolved over the phone, a technician will come to your home to diagnose and fix the issue. Afikim scooters are known for their durability, and some customers have ridden theirs for 25 years or more.

Delivery

The Afiscooter Solar ships in 1 to 3 business days from Daytona Beach, Florida, and typically arrives 3 to 10 business days after shipment. Standard curbside delivery is free. For inside delivery and setup, white glove service is available for an additional $250. It's a great option for a scooter this size.

When your scooter arrives, inspect the packaging before signing. If you find damage after unboxing, contact us within 48 hours with photos and we'll handle the claim for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a solar-powered mobility scooter work?

Solar panels built into the canopy convert light into electricity and send a slow, steady charge to the scooter's batteries whenever light hits them, while you ride and while you're parked.

Will I ever need to plug it in?

Yes. Solar charging supplements regular charging but doesn't replace it. Afikim rates the solar panels at up to 30% extra charge while riding. You can plug in anytime through the charging port on the tiller.

Does it charge on cloudy days?

Yes, at a slower rate. As long as light is hitting the panels, they produce some power. Kellon even showed it charging indoors under warehouse lighting.

How far can the Afiscooter Solar go?

36 to 38 miles per charge with the standard batteries, plus up to about 3.7 extra miles from solar.

How fast does it go?

Up to about 9.3 mph on the full-speed setting, and about 5 mph on the half-speed setting.

What is the weight capacity?

The Afiscooter Solar supports up to 500 lbs.

Can I remove the solar canopy?

The canopy is drilled into the frame and isn't designed to be removed easily. Decide at the time of purchase whether you want it.

Can I ride it in the rain?

Yes. The canopy protects you from light rain, and optional rain sides create a full enclosure. Their clear panels still allow the solar canopy to charge.

What colors are available?

The Afiscooter Solar is currently offered in Blue, Dark Grey, Red and Silver.

What warranty does it have?

A 3-year limited warranty on major components, a 13-month battery warranty, and 3 years of in-home service when purchased from Electric Wheelchairs USA.

Can I use Medicare or insurance?

Electric Wheelchairs USA does not work with insurance providers such as Medicare or Medicaid. We do offer flexible financing through Klarna, Shop Pay (powered by Affirm), PayTomorrow and Laybuy.

The Bottom Line

The Afikim Afiscooter Solar combines one of the industry's best heavy-duty scooters with something genuinely new: a canopy that charges your batteries every time the sun comes out. It won't replace your wall charger, but it adds range, keeps your batteries topped up, and gives you shade and rain protection, all backed by an exclusive 3 years of in-home service.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors in a sunny climate and want a premium scooter that works a little harder for you, the Afiscooter Solar is a standout choice.

Explore the Afikim Afiscooter Solar

Want to see more of Kellon's walkthroughs? Watch his first look at the Afiscooter Solar.

Want to browse our top sellers in print? Request our free catalog and it will arrive in about 10 days.

And if you want more information before making a decision, then we highly recommend reading Top 8 Outdoor All Terrain Mobility Scooters in 2026 & How Long Do Mobility Scooter Batteries Last?.

Choosing the Right Mobility Solution Made Simple

Navigating mobility solutions may seem daunting, but Electric Wheelchairs USA is here to make the process seamless and stress-free. Whether it's finding the perfect scooter or exploring financing options, we're committed to helping you achieve comfort, convenience, and independence tailored to your exact needs.

Expert Guidance at Every Step

From understanding product features to recommending the perfect fit, our team of experienced Mobility Experts is dedicated to guiding you through the entire process. Personalized support ensures you make informed decisions with confidence.

Have questions? We're happy to help!

• Call us at: 800-682-9444

• Email us: info@electricwheelchairsusa.com

Flexible Financing Options for Every Budget

We believe mobility solutions should be accessible to everyone. That's why we offer a range of flexible financing plans designed to suit your budget.

• Klarna Financing: Enjoy flexible installment plans and get the mobility solution you need while paying at your own pace.

• Shop Pay (Powered by Affirm): Simplify the payment process with clear and manageable payment schedules for peace of mind.

• PayTomorrow: Transparent pricing with automatic payments, without affecting your credit score when you apply.

Explore our financing options or call today at 800-682-9444 for personalized assistance.

Why Choose Electric Wheelchairs USA?

At Electric Wheelchairs USA, our mission is to make mobility accessible and stress-free. Here's why customers trust us for their mobility needs:

• Expert Support: From selecting the best mobility solution to navigating financing options, our team provides comprehensive assistance.

• Stress-Free Payments: Our flexible financing plans let you focus on what truly matters without worrying about upfront costs.

• Enhanced Freedom: Regain your independence and enjoy a more active and comfortable lifestyle with our expertly curated mobility solutions.

Don't wait to reclaim your freedom. Contact us now to explore your options and take the first step toward greater independence today!

📞 Call us at: 800-682-9444

📧 Email us at: info@electricwheelchairsusa.com