Power base
The Edge Z is geared primarily for outdoor use - the wider base offers enhanced stability, while ATX suspension at both the front and the rear ensures a smooth ride over rough ground. 4-pole motors power the Edge Z, with a top speed of 6 mph as standard - what we would recommend for the best balance of speed, torque and range, although they can be upgraded to 8 mph if extra speed is desired. This makes the Edge Z one of the best performing mid-wheel drive powerchairs outdoors..
The mid-wheel drive means the Edge Z remains manoeuvrable, able to turn on the spot, although the wider base obviously makes it less suited for indoor use than the more compact Edge 2.0.
Controls
While NE+ controls come as standard, we would recommend upgrading to the advanced Q-Logic 3 LCD control system, pictured above, for clear control over multiple powered seating options. These can also be expanded with specialist controls should hand function be limited.
Seating
The renowned iLevel 12 inch seat raiser features on the Q6 Edge Z, allowing you to drive at walking pace (3.5 mph) while fully elevated. As the name suggests, this allows you to drive at eye level - in contrast to most other powerchairs with powered lift, which are limited to crawling along at slow speeds. Being at eye level enhances social interactions, even when on the go. Faster actuators allow the full lift to be attained within 24 seconds, all at the press of a single switch.
The Edge Z can be fitted with all the other powered options the Edge 2.0 can receive, including 175° of shear-reduced recline - allowing you to lie flat when combined with powered elevating leg rests, and 50° of tilt to aid in pressure relief whilst maintaining centre of gravity shift. This is complemented by the TRU-Balance 3 Seating System, which features an amazing range of seat widths and depths, from 12 - 22 inches, plus a range of posture supporting and pressure-relieving backrests and cushions.
Style
Quantum powerchairs are known for their style, and the Q6 Edge Z is no exception. Available in a large range of colours as standard, which can be mixed and matched across the base shroud, backrest cover shroud, and joystick shroud, the appearance can be customised according to your preferences.
Our verdict
The Quantum Q6 Edge Z is best suited to those after a powerchair primarily for high-performance outdoor use, who also wish to enjoy the benefit of driving at eye level or lying flat. If your powerchair is going to be used regularly indoors or in restricted spaces, we would recommend the Q6 Edge 3 instead (which has replaced the Edge 2.0). The closest rivals to the Edge Z are Sunrise Medical's Quickie Q700 M, Permobil's M5 Corpus and Invacare's TDX SP2 HD, which are worth test driving alongside the Edge Z. For true off-roading, the Magic 360 is a better option, although it is significantly more expensive.
