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Posted 14/10/2022 in News

Adam's Challenge - with Mercedes F1 Assistance!


Adam's Challenge - with Mercedes F1 Assistance!

The team at Enable My Trip (EMT) were particularly drawn to Adam's 'End-to-End LEJOG' challenge which takes place in the spring of 2023. Adam is raising funds for Whizz Kidz - the UK’s leading charity for young wheelchair users. In 1998 the founder of EMT, Simon Miller , covered the same route by bicycle (John O'Groats from Lands' End) covering 1100 miles in 12 days, also raising funds for Whizz Kidz. We are hoping to be with Adam on our bikes for some of his journey in 2023. Click Here to see Adam's Fund Raising Page

In 2021,the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team recently took on a project with Adam Stanton-Wharmby, who is a powered wheelchair user with cerebral palsy. Adam has set himself this incredible challenge of travelling the distance using just his wheelchair to raise awareness regarding the issues faced for powered wheelchair users on major navigation platforms. To undertake such a challenging journey however, his equipment needed an upgrade. 

Inspired by the challenge, engineers at the Mercedes Formula 1 Team, they identified several key areas of optimisation for Adam's chair including seating position, battery range and weight. The Team set about switching Adam's existing battery pack for a Lithium-ion alternative, serviced all motors and gearboxes, and removed over 70kg of weight through intelligent design. The addition of a new head rest, front and rear lights, and the installation of new leg supports transformed Adam's wheelchair into a vehicle capable of the 1000-mile journey.

Adam sought help through a nationwide charity called REMAP who provide voluntary engineering support to solve disability equipment problems. From there, Adam was contacted by an Electrical Engineer who previously modified his wheelchair and 'Gird4Good' an organisation who harness expertise and resource across the motorsport industry to meet the needs of worthy causes. Grid 4 Good contacted some engineers from the Mercedes F1 Team to assess if there might be potential for improvements to Adam's chair. 

As an avid Formula One fan, Adam is delighted with his upgraded wheelchair that allows new speeds and a more comfortable journey. He commented: "The support from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team and the engineers who have modified and upgraded my powered wheelchair has been incredible. Having the opportunity to work with the Team and have their expertise has been one of those wow moments in my life."