Outside Electric Lifts

An outside electric lift is a great way to transport your mobility scooter or powerchair with your vehicle. Outside electric lifts connect to the vehicle hitch, making outside electric lifts easy to use and versatile with different vehicles. Outside electric lifts have many great features for ease of use, reliability, and to make sure both you and your device are safe.

Scooter, Powerchair, Vs Combo Lifts

There are outside electric lifts made exclusively for mobility scooters, exclusively for powerchairs, and electric lifts that are versatile for both scooters and chairs.

Outside Scooter Lift

If you mainly use a mobility scooter, it's best to purchase the outside scooter lift. The outside scooter lift has a platform that fits most mobility scooters, both 3 wheel and 4 wheel scooters. The outside scooter lift is built to handle the weight of most mobility scooters and secure the scooter best. The outside scooter lift is generally cheaper, so if you only drive a scooter, it's a better choice financially.

Outside Powerchair Lift

If you mainly use a powerchair, it's recommended that you opt for the outside powerchair lift. The powerchair lift's platform best suits power wheelchairs and can accommodate their heavier weight. Using an outside powerchair lift will also secure the powerchair the best.

Combo Lift

Some lifts can accommodate both scooters and powerchairs. These outside electric lifts are best for those who use both a scooter and a powerchair. While these lifts don't transport both devices at once, they're versatile enough to accommodate whichever mobility aid you're using at the time. These lifts are generally the more expensive option because the platform must be able to handle the different wheels, the higher weight, and be able to safely secure both mobility aids.

Features of an Outside Electric Lift

The features of an outside electric lift are what make these lifts popular. Between the ease of installation to ease of everyday use, the outside electric lift will make your freedom and independence even better.

Electric-Powered Lifting

With the outside electric lift, you do not have to manually lift your mobility aid. With electric-powered lifting, your mobility device is lifted or lowered with just the press of a button. The electric-powered lift makes it very easy to use.

Hitch-Mounted

The outside electric lift is installed and connected through the hitch. This hitch mounted scooter lift is versatile and can be used on different types of vehicles. Most of these hitch mounted scooter lifts require a Class II or III hitch. With the hitch mounted scooter lift, it's easy to change your lift onto another vehicle, if need be.

Weather-Resistant Construction

Since the outside electric lift is outside of the vehicle, it will be exposed to the outside elements. Protected by powder-coated frames and corrosion-resistant materials, the outside electric lift is made to withstand rain, snow, wind, and the sun.

Automatic Folding Platform

Space is generally a concern when it comes to any lift. With an outside electric lift, the platform automatically folds up vertically to save space and reduce drag while driving when your mobility aid is not on the platform. With it being automatic, you can put your mind to rest that it's one less thing you have to remember.

Swing-Away Option (on select models)

Since an outdoor lift is meant to keep your cargo space, many people still want to access their trunk. The swing-away allows you to swing the platform to the side so you're able to get into the trunk without removing the lift. If you don't have the swing-away option, it's difficult to access your trunk.

Secure Tie-Downs

The outside electric lifts are made to secure your mobility device. With integrated straps, locking arms, or docking devices, your scooter or powerchair is safe and secure during transit. There's no need to use your own straps and ratchets.

Remote or Switch Operation

Operating the outside electric lift is extremely easy. With the use of a remote or flipping a switch, the vehicle lift does the rest of the work automatically. If you have limited mobility, the remote or switch operation will make loading and unloading your device easier.

Battery Backup or Manual Override

A major concern with users is what happens if the lift doesn't have any power. Most of the outside electric lifts have a battery backup or a manual override. With a battery backup, the lift can still load and unload your mobility device with ease. With a manual override, you can manually raise and lower lift. Whether you have the battery backup or the manual override, you won't be stuck or stranded.

Heavy Lifting Capacity

Mobility scooters and powerchairs are generally pretty heavy. Most models can lift between 250 lbs - 350 lbs. Regardless, it's important to know how much your mobility device weighs and confirm the lift you are considering can lift that amount of weight. Each lift and model varies in its weight capacity.

Installing an Outside Electric Lift

Installing an outside electric lift is easy. Before you start, make sure your hitch class is compatible with that specific lift. Next, you'll slide the lift into the hitch receiver. Then you connect the wiring harness and then test the lift function. Now you're ready to use your lift. Installing an outside electric lift is that easy, and the best part is there are no modifications to your vehicle or the lift. If you don't feel comfortable installing an outside electric lift yourself, you can hire a professional to install it for you.

Reliable Outside Electric Lift Brands

When out and about, the last thing you want is for your lift to be slow or unreliable. At Scooter Direct, we only carry reliable outside electric lift brands. No matter which of these brands you decide to go with, you're opting for the best brands that you can rely on and trust.

Harmar

Harmar is the leading manufacturer of vehicle lifts. They are known for their safety, reliability, and durability. Harmar lifts go through extensive life-cycle testing and are often tested at multiples above rated load standards, demonstrating their commitment to exceeding industry standards.

TriLift

TriLift is known for their platform‑free, strap‑free lift solutions. Though they are a newer company, their outside electric lift has proven to be reliable and safe. If you are looking for a strong, power wheelchair lift for a car, TriLift might be the lift you're looking for. With a weight capacity of 500lbs, this power wheelchair lift for cars is strong enough to lift most scooters or powerchairs. This power wheelchair lift for cars also can be used for class I, II, or III hitches. TriLift is unique with its lifting capabilities. Small and sleek, but strong and resilient.

Wheelchair Carriers

WheelChair Carrier stands out as a trusted brand with a solid legacy in mobility lifts. Their combination of American-made products, a practical product lineup, and a reputation for reliability makes them a great choice.

Finding The Right Outside Electric Lift For You

Every person has a different need when it comes to finding the right outside electric lift. Below will be a guide to help navigate you towards the appropriate outside electric lift.

Mobility Scooter Lift for Car

If you are in need of a mobility scooter lift for car, the TriLift Mobility Carrier is one of the best options since it has the option to connect to a hitch class I. This mobility scooter lift for car does not have a platform, so it's not as bulky. The TriLift Mobility Carrier uses a bracket to lift your mobility device. One bracket is installed to your scooter or chair and it locks onto the connecting bracket on the lift. This mobility scooter lift for cars is easy to use and is one of the few lifts that can be used with a car.

Electric Scooter Lift for SUV

If you drive an SUV, you might be looking for an electric scooter lift for an SUV. A great choice for an electric scooter lift for SUV is the Harmar AL100 Universal Scooter Lift. It's known as the best all around choice for an outside electric lift. With a weight capacity of 350 lbs, it's strong enough to lift most mobility scooters. With a universal platform, automatic hold-down arm, and push-button operation, this electric scooter lift for SUV is the lift that might be perfect for you.

Electric Lift for Heavy Mobility Scooters

If you're using a heavier mobility scooter, then you might want to consider the Harmar AL100HD Heavy Duty Universal Scooter Lift. This electric lift for heavy mobility scooters has a weight capacity up to 400 lbs. The Harmar AL100HD does require the vehicle to have a class II or III hitch, so it's best for SUV's and trucks. This electric lift for heavy mobility scooters is operated with a one switch system and has a manual crank backup system.

Scooter Lift with Swing-Away Option

Most of the Harmar outside electric lifts are a great choice for a scooter lift with swing-away option. The scooter lifts with swing-away option are only available for class hitch III vehicles due to the weight and torque. These options are available as a scooter lift with swing-away option.

Why Purchase from Scooter Direct?

Purchasing an outdoor electric lift from Scooter Direct means choosing reliability, expert support, and unbeatable value. As one of the nation's leading mobility retailers, Scooter Direct offers a carefully curated selection of top-quality lifts from trusted brands like Harmar, TriLift, and WheelChair Carrier, ensuring you get a lift that's durable, easy to use, and compatible with your mobility device and vehicle. Their team of mobility experts is available to help you find the right lift for your needs, including options with swing-away arms, heavy-duty capacities, and platform-free designs. With competitive pricing, nationwide delivery, and a reputation built on customer satisfaction, Scooter Direct takes the guesswork out of buying an outdoor electric lift, so you can travel with confidence and independence.

Outdoor Electric Lift FAQs

Will an outdoor electric lift work in the rain or snow?

Yes, most outdoor electric lifts are built with weather-resistant materials, including powder-coated steel and sealed electronics, to withstand rain, snow, and road debris. However, it's recommended to periodically clean and inspect your lift, and to use a mobility device cover during transport for added protection.

Can I install an outdoor electric lift on a leased vehicle?

In many cases, yes, but it depends on your lease agreement. Most lifts mount to the hitch receiver, requiring no permanent vehicle modifications. Always check with your leasing company first, and keep in mind that you can remove the lift before returning the vehicle.

Does the lift drain my car battery?

Outdoor electric lifts use your vehicle's 12V system or trailer wiring for power. While they draw some power during operation, they do not continuously drain your battery when not in use. If you're concerned, a battery disconnect switch or dedicated power source may help.

Can I drive on the highway with my mobility device on the lift?

Yes. Outdoor electric lifts are designed to be used while driving, including at highway speeds. Always ensure your mobility device is securely fastened using the lift's hold-down system, and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for weight limits and proper loading.

Can I use an outdoor lift with a folding scooter?

Yes, but it depends on the lift. Some folding scooters may be too compact or lightweight to engage the automatic hold-down arms on certain lifts. In these cases, you may need custom straps or a different lift style, such as a manual platform or custom docking bracket.

Do I need to register or insure my lift?

Generally, no registration is required for the lift itself, but if it blocks your vehicle's license plate or lights, you may need a relocator kit to stay road legal. Insurance varies—some auto policies cover lift equipment, but it's best to check with your provider for coverage details.