What Vehicles Can Be Wheelchair Accessible?

As a wheelchair user, having a vehicle that works for you is important to help you stay independent and active outside the home.  But knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. In this article we explore what cars can be wheelchair accessible, the importance of vehicle adaptations and key features to look for.

What is a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)?

A Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) is a vehicle that has been converted to enable wheelchair users to travel within it. This typically means a van derived vehicle which has had its floor lowered and a ramp fitted, so a wheelchair user can enter and travel in the vehicle while remaining seated in their wheelchair. 

While a WAV can be the best choice for some people, especially those with more complex wheelchair needs, it may not suit everyone. Which is where vehicle adaptations and adapted cars come in! 

Vehicle adaptations can help you drive, get in and out of your vehicle, and store mobility equipment. They are a popular option for many disabled drivers and passengers as they can be added to most makes and models of cars. Opening up much more choice to the type of car you want, while making it accessible to your needs.

Types of Vehicles That Can Be Made Wheelchair Accessible

Thankfully advancements in vehicle adaptations mean most cars on the market can be adapted for wheelchair accessibility. From smaller hatchbacks and estates to 4×4’s, SUV’s and MPVS, you are not limited in choice! All fuel types can be adapted, so whether you’re sticking with petrol or diesel for the time being, or transitioning to EV or hybrid, you won’t need to compromise. 

Of course, what you want and require in a vehicle based on mobility needs, personal preferences, number of passengers and lifestyle, will naturally determine which vehicles you’ll need to look at. 

Once you’ve shortlisted a few vehicles that meet your overall requirements, we recommend contacting a vehicle adaptations specialist, such as Mobility in Motion, to gain compatibility advice on adapting it for wheelchair access.

How Are Vehicles Converted for Wheelchair Accessibility?

Van derived vehicles will have the floor lowered to increase the height to accommodate a wheelchair user. It will be fitted with a ramp or in some instances a lift, to enable the wheelchair to access. Wheelchair Tie-Downs & Occupant Restraint Systems must also be attached, so the occupant is safe and secure during their journey. 

For standard cars, there are a wide range of adaptations that an be fitted to make it wheelchair accessible such as:

Wheelchair Access Solutions

Adaptations such as person hoists, transfer plates and swivel seats enable you to safely and comfortably transfer from a wheelchair into the driver or passenger seat.

These options help you:?

• Take full advantage of standard safety systems like locking seatbelts, airbags and supportive seats?
• Enjoy the usual luxuries such as air conditioning, heating and music
• Sit in the front or back of the vehicle with your travelling companions for a comfortable and sociable journey?
• Keep your current car or choose freely when you’re looking for a new one

Secure Wheelchair Stowage

Traveling with your wheelchair or mobility device is crucial so it’s important to explore options that help you lift and store it within your vehicle.  

Boot hoists and wheelchair roof boxes are popular, as well as platform lifts because they offer a practical stowage solution so you can travel with your mobility device while eliminating the physical strain often required when manually lifting the heavy parts of it.

Driving Aids for Wheelchair Users

A safe driving set up is vital to ensure the safety of not only yourself and passengers, but others on the road. 

As a wheelchair user, you may find it difficult or be unable to operate the standard foot pedals. Hand control systems can be fitted so you can operate the acceleration and brake by hand. Or if you only struggle with your right leg, then a left foot accelerator can be fitted to the left of the brake pedal for operation with your left foot. 

Buying vs. Renting a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Budget and lifestyle are key considerations when deciding whether to purchase or lease a vehicle. One of the most popular ways to lease a WAV or a car with adaptations, is the Motability Scheme. This is a registered disability charity, which enables you to exchange your qualifying mobility allowance for a brand-new car, adaptations or a WAV. Your lease renews every 3 years, which many people appreciate and covers the costs of your insurance, road tax, breakdown cover, and annual service and MOT. Check out our complete Motability car guide for further details. 

If you’re not eligible for the Motability Scheme or choose not to join the Scheme, you can privately purchase your vehicle from any preferred car dealership. You can apply for VAT exemption on the vehicle with a disability VAT exemption form, and use the money saved to buy your vehicle adaptations. Or you can explore the second hand car market, to find a suitable option within your budget, 

It may be that you decide you don’t require permanent access to your own vehicle, and instead only need occasional access to public transport services. Wheelchair Accessible taxis and rentals are a helpful solution for those to gain access to transport for appointments or events, especially where public transport like trains and buses don’t travel.

How Mobility in Motion Can Help

At Mobility in Motion we make it easy to get you back on the road. Whether you want to speak with someone in person or prefer a virtual chat, our team of experts will offer a needs based assessment to understand your individual mobility requirements, the vehicle you have and your mobility device. 

We will then confirm user suitability and vehicle compatibility in order to select the right adaptations tailored to your specific needs and arrange for one of our UK-wide trained engineers to fit your adaptations! For added peace of mind, all of our products come with a 3-year warranty and we have a dedicated aftercare team to help you get the very most out of them. Get in touch with us online to find out how we can help you or call our team on 0800 288 4422. 

Learn more about adapted vehicles and how they can be customized for wheelchair users.