Exploring the Different Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)

WAV

A  wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV)  is a broad term encompassing various vehicle types adapted to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. These vehicles are designed to provide safe, independent, and comfortable transportation and are often also referred as Mobility Vehicles, Wheelchair Adapted Vehicles, Wheelchair Access Cars and Disabled Cars depending on the converter and vehicle marketplace. 

Wheelchair Accessible Passenger Vehicles

The most commonly aquired type of accessible vehicle, primarily adapted so that a wheelchair passenger or passengers can access the vehicle whilst remaining seated in their wheelchair and then travel safely and securely as a passenger still sitting in their wheelchair.

Mobility Cars and Disabled Cars

Very often confused with “ Motability” Car, a Mobility Car or Vehicle is simply another commonly used expression to describe a vehicle adapted for the benefit of a person with a physical disability, either wheelchair accessible or adapted in some other manner. Some marketplaces such as Ebay Motors use the expression "disabled cars" to catergorize there wheelchair adapted vehicle listings.

Rear - Entry Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

The most common type of Wheelchair Adapted vehicle available rear-entry wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) are the most common type of adapted vehicle, offering flexibility and convenience for wheelchair users. These vehicles allow individuals to enter and exit while remaining seated in their wheelchairs, eliminating the need for physical transfer. This design caters to a wide range of wheelchair sizes and types, making it the most suitable adaption for many WAV users. Rear-entry WAVs can be equipped with fold-out or fold-flat ramps, manual or automatic operation depending on requirements and budget, and are available on a comprehensive range of base vehicles.

Drive from Wheelchair Vehicle 

Drive-from-wheelchair vehicles (WAVs) provide unparalleled independence for wheelchair users. A drive from wheelchair vehicle is a car, van or MPV that has been adapted to allow a disabled wheelchair user to independently  enter, operate, and drive the car while remaining securely seated in their wheelchair.  Drive-from-wheelchair WAVs empower wheelchair drivers to take control of their transportation and enjoy the freedom of the open road. 

Wheelchair Driver Transfer Vehicles

Similar in concept to drive from wheelchair vehicles, transfer vehicles are designed in a similar fashion to afford independent travel for wheelchair users who are able to transfer from their wheelchair to either the standard driver’s seat or more commonly to a adjustable seat that can move backwards and forwards, rotate and rise and fall.

Up-front Wheelchair Passenger Vehicles

Less common and typically more expensive than standard wheelchair accessible vehicles because of the additional cost of modifying the vehicle to allow the wheelchair passenger to sit adjacent to the driver.

Some Up-front wheelchair passenger vehicles also have the ability for the passenger to change position with the driver thus also serving as a “drive from wheelchair” vehicle.

Side-Entry Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Side-entry wheelchair accessible (WAV) vehicles are designed with a ramp or lift on the side of the vehicle, allowing the wheelchair user to enter and exit through the side. These vehicles are typically larger vans or SUVs and offer more space for multiple passengers and equipment. Side-entry vehicles also offer more visibility for the wheelchair user while driving. However, they may be more expensive than rear-entry vehicles and may require more space for parking and maneuvering. It's important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between rear-entry and side-entry wheelchair accessible vehicles.

Complex & Bespoke Adapted Vehicles

Over the years Jubilee have built hundreds of specialist accessible vehicles, often designed and manufactured to meet the quite specific needs of individual wheelchair users such as the low floor adapted VW Multivan in the video below.

We are still able to offer this unique service today for those requiring bespoke solutions. Please get in contact to discuss your Bespoke adaption requirements.

Need More Information?

If you're considering a WAV, it's essential to consult with experts who can guide you through the process. Contact Jubilee today to discuss your specific needs and explore the wide range of WAV options available.

call us on 0121 502 2252

Jubilee Automotive Group are Europe's premier stockists of new and used adapted vehicles for mobility disabled passengers and drivers