Key Features to look for in a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

With a huge range of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles available today, it can be hard to know what to look for. With close to 400 different varieties of accessible car available on the Motability Scheme, plus many other adapted vehicles available to purchase, finding a WAV that has the right features for you is tricky.

Here are the key features to consider in a WAV – to make things easier, we’ll split them into conversion features and vehicle features.

WAV Conversion Features

Key Things to look for in a WAV Conversion

Many WAV suppliers offer the same range of base vehicles with adaptations for wheelchair users. However, the features of each conversion will vary from convertor to convertor. So whilst many WAVs can look similar from outside, some key differences can set them apart on the inside.

Wheelchair Restraint System

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are fitted with a safety-tested wheelchair restraint system to safely tie the wheelchair down. The restraint system may be tested to restrain wheelchair weights from 85kg to 200kg, so check that it is suitable for the weight of your wheelchair.

The restraint system should also be easy to use for carers, so check that all users are able to easily operate any tie-downs and secure them tightly. Brotherwood WAVs feature our patented STORQ system, which automatically tensions the wheelchair restraints, making it easier to secure the wheelchair without effort.

Access – Ramp or Lift

A key element of a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle is the access provision – this will typically be via a ramp or lift. Ramps can be manual or power operated, and benefit from simplicity and ease of use in all conditions. Vehicles with a lift won’t usually have a lowered floor, and require regular maintenance. It is recommended to check how easily the ramp or lift can be operated in case of an emergency or power failure.

Rear Entry vs Side Entry

Ramp entry vehicles usually offer wheelchair entry at the rear of the vehicle, where the entry height aperture is highest. Lift access vehicles can offer either rear or side entry – with less entry height, they can be harder to access in many car parks but may be useful for pavement-side parking.

Winch

Vehicles with a ramp access must also be fitted with a winch, if the ramp approach angle is over 13º. However you may choose to have a winch fitted to any vehicle with ramp access, to make it easier to load and unload the wheelchair user without pushing. Our PAWRS combines the functions of both a traditional winch, and front restraint system, making it faster and more convenient to load a wheelchair into a vehicle.

Lowered Floor

Most Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle are fitted with a lowered floor, which creates additional space inside the vehicle for the wheelchair user, providing better visibility out of the windows and lowering the centre of gravity of the wheelchair user for a smoother ride. You can learn more about the benefits of a lowered floor WAV here.

Base Vehicle Features

Key Things to look for in a WAV Vehicle

Modern Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles can be equipped with a range of features and options to enhance the travelling experience for drivers and passengers alike. Here are the main things to look out for to make your journeys better:

Climate Control

If you are sensitive to temperature, climate control is an important feature. Some vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz V-Class have separate controls for the rear cabin area, making it easier to moderate the internal temperature to suit all passengers.

Privacy Glass

Dark-tinted glass in the second and third-row windows can also help to moderate the temperature inside the vehicle, and reduce glare. As the name suggests, tinted windows can also offer more privacy for passengers inside the vehicle.

Panoramic Sunroof

Filling the cabin with light, a panoramic roof can increase the feeling of spaciousness inside the accessible vehicle, and provide better outward visibility for the wheelchair user. Available on accessible vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz V-Class and Ford Tourneo Connect, a panoramic sunroof is a popular option for many WAV users.

Automatic Transmission

Automatic gear changes are a popular feature in many new WAVs – with modern gearboxes such as the Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic providing a smooth driving experience for all passengers.

Choosing a WAV

Our friendly, expert team are here to help you choose an accessible vehicle with all of the features you need. Call us today on freephone 0330 1747 555, or contact us today to learn more and discuss your needs.