Jalle Jungell, founder of Panthera, was disabled at 22 by a road accident that broke his back. Refusing to let his disability define him, he turned to sports and encountered a new challenge: the inadequacy of traditional wheelchairs for active lifestyles.

Inspired by his personal experiences, he set out to design a unique wheelchair—one capable of enduring the demands of extreme activities. This marked the start of his journey into the world of wheelchair design.

As the years went by, his passion intensified. A pivotal moment occurred when an American engineer became part of his team. With a deep knowledge of advanced materials like carbon fibre, the engineer introduced a new viewpoint and a groundbreaking concept - to construct a wheelchair from this lightweight yet incredibly strong material.

It wasn't just about functionality; it was about making a statement. They collaborated with a talented designer to create a practical and aesthetically pleasing product, blending materials, graphics, and textiles seamlessly.

Drawing on the expertise of collaborators experienced in rehabilitation, and incorporating firsthand feedback from wheelchair users, they refined the design until it met all the defined needs. In the initial years following the launch, the product surpassed expectations in both sales volumes and user satisfaction.

Building on their success, Permobil acquired Panthera in 2022 and has continued to innovate. The new Panthera X3 features a fold-down backrest for better transportability, a stronger frame, and a higher weight capacity. Its innovative seat upholstery offers more comfort and support, showcasing Panthera's dedication to innovation and user-focused design. Improved rear axle configurability ensures personalised solutions for individual needs.

Permobil wants to reaffirm our commitment to pushing boundaries of wheelchair design. And as we look to the future, one thing is clear: the journey is far from over.