Electric vehicles (EVs) are quickly becoming a part of everyday life. They’re great for the environment and give a cleaner, quieter, and smoother driving experience. But it has not always been easy converting EVs into WAVs.
We have worked with manufacturers to offer a small number of electric Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (eWAVs) available on the Scheme. But the transition to electric brings new challenges for our WAV converters.
One big one? The battery sits under the car. That means in smaller WAVs the floor cannot always be lowered enough to allow space for a wheelchair passenger to sit comfortably.
At the Motability Scheme, we believe everyone should be included in the switch to EVs and we’re here to support you.
That’s why we partnered with the award-winning design company CALLUM. Together, we developed eVITA, a groundbreaking eWAV demonstrator. By producing a demonstrator vehicle, we have showcased what accessible eWAVs could look like for our customers.
eVITA is more than just an idea, it is an important conversation starter with car makers to consider accessible design early on.
Some of the standout features of eVITA include:
- A groundbreaking new battery layout: meaning there is more space for passengers
- A low-angle ramp with rear entry: makes getting in and out quicker and easier, with less effort
- Rear projection lamp: this alerts other drivers when the vehicle is parked
- Raised windows and a panoramic glass roof: reducing motion sickness and giving great views
- Forward-positioned wheelchair space: this means the wheelchair user can sit nearer to the front, making it easier to chat to the driver and enjoy the journey
We recently invited Motability Scheme customer Alex and her husband Lionel, to try eVITA. She shared what it felt like to use a car designed with her in mind. Watch the video to hear more about her experience.
So, what happens next?
eVITA is a concept vehicle, designed to explore what could be possible and we’re continuing to work with car makers and converters, so together we can ensure the future of WAVs as we transition to electric.
And there’s exciting news. We’ve already collaborated with Kia on the development of a wheelchair-accessible version of their new car, PV5 which will be coming to the UK in 2026. This is just the start. Our goal is an inclusive future, where no one is left behind. We’ll keep sharing updates as we make more progress.
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