Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) are vehicles which have been permanently adapted to carry a wheelchair user.

WAVs typically enable the wheelchair user to enter and travel without leaving their wheelchair. Some WAVs are designed for the wheelchair user to enter in their wheelchair but transfer to a standard seat within the vehicle.

WAV conversions include some form of wheelchair access, such as an access ramp or a lift. WAVs often have a lowered floor to increase space and visibility for the wheelchair user. A restraint system to secure the wheelchair in place called a WTORS (Wheelchair Tie-Down and Occupant Restraint System) and other features such as a winch might also be fitted depending on the needs of the wheelchair user.

Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

There are 2 main types of WAV that you will typically find in the UK:

AWAV (Assisted Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle): These vehicles are generally adapted for the wheelchair user to travel as a passenger within the vehicle. The wheelchair user typically requires the assistance of a family member or carer to access the vehicle and secure the wheelchair within the vehicle.

UWAV (Unassisted Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle): These vehicles are adapted for the wheelchair user to travel independently as a driver. They are referred to as ‘drive-from wheelchair’ vehicles. UWAVs are usually more expensive due to their complex entry and tie-down systems that can be operated without the aid of a second person.

How to Get a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

There are a few ways that you can experience a WAV, depending on your needs and circumstances.

New or used WAVs can be purchased from specialist conversion companies such as Brotherwood. When choosing a new vehicle, you’ll be able to choose any of the things you would expect from a new car – such as colour and specification. If you choose to buy a vehicle outright, you’ll own the vehicle entirely – and will be responsible for the insurance and servicing.

The Motability scheme offers alternative route to a new Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle for people in receipt of certain allowances such as Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment. In return for paying the allowance to Motability, and making an upfront ‘Advance Payment’, you can lease a new WAV for a 5-year contract, with maintenance and insurance included. Unlike buying a WAV, there are restrictions on things like mileage and who can drive the vehicle, and at the end of the contract the vehicle is returned to Motability.

Alternatively if you need a WAV for a shorter term, such as for a holiday, you might prefer to hire an accessible vehicle. There are a few companies in the UK providing WAV Hire, offering you the chance to try a vehicle for anything from a few days to a few months.

Most Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle providers will provide a home demonstration at no cost – giving you the chance to try before you buy.

How to Choose a WAV

There are lots of things to consider when choosing a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle. One of the most important things to check is how much interior space you need for the wheelchair user to travel comfortably, with good visibility out of the windows and without feeling cramped.

There are also different options for the wheelchair location within the vehicle. Depending on your needs you may prefer up front next to the driver, next to the rear passengers or behind the rear passengers. Each option will have different implications for the comfort and visibility of the wheelchair user, as well as the cost of the vehicle.

You’ll also need to consider things like the ride comfort, number of seats, transmission, and parking. For a comprehensive guide check out this WAV Buyers’ Guide.