Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Buyers Guide

WAV buyers guide

Searching for the perfect Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide is designed to simplify your search, with essential tips for choosing a WAV. We will  help you understand the different types of WAVs available, as well as the different adaptations and conversion types so you can confidently choose the right mobility vehicle for you.

Below is information on the various adaptions for wheelchair access and travel.  If you'd like to know more about the available manufacturer and model types for sale in the UK please see our accessible vehicle for sale information

 

What is a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)?

A wheelchair accessible vehicle also known as a WAV or WAV Vehicle is a car, van, or MPV that has been professionally converted and adapted to allow a wheelchair user to access the vehicle and to travel safely and comfortably without having to transfer out of their wheelchair.

 

 

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Size is Important: Ensuring Comfort and Access in Your WAV

The most crucial factor when choosing a WAV is size, with access and headroom for the wheelchair passenger as top priorities. You need to ensure the wheelchair user can easily enter the vehicle and, once inside, has ample space and visibility. Factors and features to consider include;

 

Wheelchair Position and Size

Consider where the wheelchair user will sit within the vehicle. Some WAVs position the wheelchair user in the rear, while others offer options for them to sit alongside other passengers or even upfront. The ideal location depends on the user's preference for social interaction, visibility, and the required seating capacity for other passengers. Our What is a WAV? guide has more extensive details on the various wheelchair positions available in our WAV stock if you would like to find out more.

When considering the above its worth knowing the length, width, and height (floor to the top of the wheelchair occupant's head) for your specific wheelchair (including its dimensions and any accessories). This will better help you understand your specific requirements for a safe and comfortably fit. Here is a helpful link to our wheelchair assessment guide.

Headroom and Door Height

Having ample headroom and door height is important for access to the vehicle and for a comfortable experience whilst inside. Taller wheelchair users might find it difficult to enter vehicles with restricted door heights or sit upright if the roof is too low. This can also lead to poor visibility through windows or windscreens. A low floor wav can be an excellent solution for these issues.

Lowered Floors

A low floor WAV is a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle specifically converted with a lowered rear floor section, creating increased internal headroom. WAVs with lowered floors are an excellent solution for taller wheelchair users as the additional space created by the lowered floor can make entry and exit much easier.

High Roof Vehicles

These offer improved access dimensions and interior space, often using a simple on-board ramp (which can be assisted by a powered access winch) or a powered wheelchair lift for access. While generally larger, these vehicles can also offer more seating positions, which is another important consideration. However the larger nature of the base vehicle means they can be less convenient than a smaller vehicle for everyday use.

 

 

Quick Tip

Larger WAVs offer more internal space but can be challenging to park or navigate in tight spaces like car parks. The wide selection of WAVs available from Jubilee Mobility means you'll have a better chance of finding a vehicle that perfectly balances space with practicality.

Seating Capacity: How Many Passengers Do You Need?

The number of seats you need in your WAV is another vital consideration, as it often dictates the overall size of the base vehicle and its practical use. Balancing your passenger requirements with vehicle size and cost is key. Lets look at seating capacity by vehicle type and the associated pros and cons.

 

Small & Compact WAVs

 

These vehicles are typically based on smaller cars or compact vans.

  • Seating Configuration: Usually offer 2 to 3 seats plus the wheelchair passenger. Some compact models may provide 5 seats, but often require folding a rear twin seat forward to create space for the wheelchair (e.g., 5 seats OR 3 seats + wheelchair). This configuration is often found in models like the VW Caddy WAV and Citroen Berlingo WAV.

  • Pros:

    • Manoeuvrability: Easier to drive and park in urban environments, tight spaces, and standard parking bays.

    • Cost-Effective: Generally have a lower purchase price and better fuel efficiency due to their smaller size and lighter weight.

    • Feels More Like a Car: Offers a driving experience closer to a standard car, which many drivers prefer.

  • Cons:

    • Limited Passenger Space: May not be suitable for larger families or those who frequently travel with multiple passengers.

    • Less Internal Space: Can feel cramped for taller wheelchair users or those with larger mobility aids. Limited storage for extra equipment or luggage.

    • Ramp Access Only: Typically use ramps (manual or powered winch) rather than lifts, which may require more effort or assistance.

 

MPV Sized WAVs

 

These vehicles strike a balance between passenger capacity and manageability.

  • Seating Configuration: Tend to come with 4 seats plus wheelchair as standard (especially when they have a full-length lowered floor), but some, like our Ford Connect Liberty, can offer 5 seats plus wheelchair.

  • Pros:

    • Balanced Capacity: Good for average-sized families, offering more passenger seats than compact WAVs without being excessively large.

    • Improved Comfort: Generally provide more comfortable seating and slightly more room for the wheelchair user than compact models.

    • Versatile Access: Can accommodate a wider range of access methods, including longer ramps and sometimes on-board lifts.

  • Cons:

    • Internal Space Still May Be Limited: While better than compact, still might not be enough seating for larger families or if you need to transport additional equipment regularly.

    • Parking Challenges: Can be slightly trickier to park than a compact car, though still more manageable than larger vans.

    • Higher Running Costs: Generally consume more fuel and have higher running costs than smaller WAVs.

 

 Large Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

 

These are typically based on larger vans or minibuses, designed for maximum capacity and space.

  • Seating Configuration: Bigger accessible vehicles typically range from 4 to 6 seatssuch as our exclusive VW Multivan Liberty), whilst large wheelchair accessible vehicles like our Renault Master AX-S can offer up to 8 or even 9 seats as standard.

  • Pros:

    • Maximum Seating: Ideal for larger families, care homes, or organisations requiring transport for multiple passengers alongside the wheelchair user(s). Some models can accommodate multiple wheelchairs.

    • Ample Space & Headroom: Provides generous internal space  and excellent visibility for the wheelchair user. Plenty of room for additional equipment or luggage.

    • Advanced Access Options: Often feature powered lifts (on-board or underfloor) especially useful for heavier power wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

  • Cons:

    • Size & Manoeuvrability: Much larger vehicles can be challenging to drive, park, and navigate in urban areas or multi-storey car parks due to their dimensions and turning circle.

    • Higher Cost: Generally have the highest purchase price, higher insurance costs, and greater fuel consumption.

    • Commercial Vehicle Feel: The driving experience might feel more like a van than a car, which might not be preferred by all drivers.

 

 

 

 

Quick Tip

More seats normally means a bigger vehicle which normally means more cost. Try not to overstate your requirement.

Wheelchair Lifts & Fold Out Ramps : Entry and Exit Options

There are a variety of conversion types that allow the wheelchair user to enter and exit the vehicle. Different access solutions suit different needs and vehicle types. Some of the most common access types available include;

 

Rear Ramps:

 

Manual Ramps

Common on smaller WAVs. Lightweight, often spring-assisted for easy folding/unfolding by hand. Cost-effective and low maintenance. These are the most simple access method. Some may fold flat for increased rear window visability when the wheelchair user is not present.

Powered Ramps

Operated by a button or remote, ideal for convenience and those requiring less physical effort. Can be paired with a powered tailgate for fully automated rear access.

Powered Winch 

A valuable addition for any ramp. Gently pulls the wheelchair up, reducing strain for caregivers and ensuring smooth entry.

 

On-Board Wheelchair Lifts:

 

Chairlifts

A wheelchair chairlift (often just called a "wheelchair lift" or "platform lift" in vehicles) is a mechanical device designed to raise or lower a wheelchair and its occupant into and out of a vehicle.

While they can be used for any wheelchair, chairlifts are particularly beneficial for heavier wheelchairs, such as power wheelchairs or scooters, and for users who prefer a less strenuous entry/exit than a ramp might offer. They eliminate the need for pushing up an incline and provide a stable, controlled platform for transfer.

Normally installed in slightly bigger vehicles e.g. VW Caravelle, Vauxhall Vivaro or Renault Trafic. Installed inside the vehicle, either at the rear or nearside (passenger side) door. Provides a strong, stable platform for lifting.  They are usually accessed by a fold out ramp at the rear door, sometimes with the assistance of a powered access winch, an on-board wheelchair lift either at the rear or nearside door or an underfloor wheelchair lift at the side door.  The major advantage is that this type of vehicle does not require such a high degree of conversion and can usually accommodate more passengers as a result.

 

Fiorella Lifts 

Noted for their compact, discreet design and modern look (e.g., in VW Multivan conversions). These single-arm lifts fold neatly to maximize interior space when not in use. They offer smooth operation and enhanced safety features.

 

Underfloor Wheelchair Lifts:

 

For those seeking to maximum interior space, underfloor wheelchair lifts are an innovative solution.

Concealed Design

These lifts store completely out of sight beneath the vehicle chassis when not in use. This frees up the entire interior space, allowing for more standard seating positions and maintaining the original look of the vehicle's interior.

Side Door Access

Underfloor lifts are typically deployed from a side door, creating a flat platform that raises the wheelchair to vehicle floor height.

Benefits

Their primary advantage is maintaining maximum cabin flexibility and a clean interior aesthetic, as the lift mechanism is entirely external when stored.

Key Advantage of Ramps & Lifts

A major benefit of WAVs that utilize lifts or ramps (rather than only relying on extensively lowered floors) is that they generally require less extensive structural modification to the vehicle. This often means they can accommodate more passengers alongside the wheelchair user, offering greater flexibility in seating configurations.

 

Quick Tip

Consider your specific needs: a powered on-board lift offers robust, assisted access, especially for heavier chairs, while an underfloor lift maximizes interior space.

UNDERFLOOR CHAIRLIFT
ON-BOARD WHEELCHAIR LIFT
POWERED ACCESS WINCH
LOW FLOOR LARGER WAVS ACCESS

Need more guidance? With over 30 years of experience, and outstanding customer service rating on RAC Judgeservice and one of the UK's largest selection of WAVs, Jubilee Automotive Group is uniquely positioned to help.

Our expert 'WAV People' advisor team are ready to guide you through every option and ensure you find the ideal adapted vehicle.

 

Explore our massive selection of Jubilee Liberty NEW WAVs and RAC Approved Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles.

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