What people get wrong about Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Myth 1: WAVs can be complicated to operate 

Reality: WAVs are designed with ease of use at their core  

A common myth about WAVs is that they are difficult to operate, which can make the idea of getting one feel daunting. However, WAVs are designed with ease of use in mind and user-friendly features.  

Features such as low-angle ramps, automatic and gas-assisted ramps, and powered lifts make entering and exiting the vehicle straightforward, reducing the need to lift the entire weight of the ramp yourself.   

While WAVs are generally larger than standard cars, which might seem intimidating, you’ll find that they drive quite similarly. I’ve been a Motability Scheme customer for around twenty years and have had various WAVs during that time. My partner and my mum are my main drivers, and they both noted how much easier the WAVs I’ve had in recent years are to drive, especially with the option of automatic transmission. My current WAV, a Peugeot Rifter, is equipped with a colour reversing camera, parking sensors, an 8″ colour touchscreen with an in-car entertainment system, and powered heated and folding door mirrors.  

Myth 2: WAVs limit choice and style 

Reality: There are lots of choices for those looking for a WAV 

While it’s true that there are fewer WAV models to choose from compared to standard cars, there are still many options available to find one that suits your needs. The selection of WAVs available through the Motability Scheme includes various sizes, makes, and models.   

If you prefer a compact option that drives like a standard car, consider small to medium WAVs such as the Volkswagen Caddy, Peugeot Rifter, or Dacia Jogger. These models can accommodate between five and six passengers, making them ideal for couples or smaller families.   

For larger families or those needing extra space for equipment and luggage, medium to large WAVs are a better fit. They provide the necessary room for larger wheelchairs and additional gear, ensuring comfort and convenience for all passengers. 

The Citroen Space Tourer, Renault Trafic, and Volkswagen Crafter are among the largest passenger WAVs available on the Motability Scheme.  

Myth 3: WAVs compromise comfort 

Reality: WAVs are built for comfort for drivers and passengers. 

WAVs have often been perceived as boxy and uncomfortable for passengers, mainly due to their size and spacious interiors, which could lead to a less smooth ride. However, comfort has significantly improved in WAVs over the years.  

Many modern WAVs offer a variety of seating configurations, allowing you to choose a setup that feels most comfortable and best meets the needs of you and your family. I previously found travelling in WAVs to be quite bumpy and noisy, but WAVs are now equipped with enhanced suspension systems for a smoother and quieter driving experience.  

I feel much more comfortable riding in my current WAV because the suspension absorbs bumps, and road noise is significantly reduced. Some WAVs even have carpeted flooring and side panels that reduce echoing and create a more car-like feel. 

My partner and mum enjoy driving my WAV because they find it very comfortable. They appreciate the slightly elevated seating position, which gives them a better view, and they feel that the medium size of the vehicle provides an enhanced sense of safety while driving.  

Additional features include adaptations to suit your needs, a choice of automatic transmissions for ease of use, and a heating and air conditioning system, as well as built-in technology such as an infotainment system featuring navigation, audio options, and vehicle settings functions. 

Myth 4: WAVs restrict freedom and independence 

Reality: WAVs can enhance freedom and independence 

Whether I’m going to work, socialising, attending appointments, or travelling, my WAV provides me with the freedom and independence to go wherever I want, whenever I want – something that relying on public transport simply cannot offer. 

Part of my job as a disabled travel writer involves attending meetings and work events, as well as travelling across the UK, visiting different places to review the accessibility of hotels, event spaces, and transportation.  

Having a WAV that meets my needs has been life-changing, allowing me to keep working and take advantage of exciting opportunities that would otherwise be impossible without it. One key advantage is that I can store my mobility equipment in my WAV, which is especially important because I rely on my mobile hoist when I travel for work.  

In addition to travelling for work, I often go on holidays and day trips with my partner and family. There is plenty of space for passengers, everyday items such as shopping bags, and often room for plants I buy from my favourite place, the garden centre. My WAV has provided me with greater freedom, comfort, and an improved quality of life, for which I feel incredibly grateful.  

Myth 5: You cannot drive from a wheelchair 

Reality: You absolutely can. Some WAV models are specifically designed to be driven from a wheelchair. 

Another common misconception is that WAVs are only designed for passengers. However, there are also drive-from WAVs that allow wheelchair users to drive directly from their wheelchairs. These vehicles can be equipped with driving controls and secure wheelchair docking systems. 

Drive-from WAVs are available through the Motability Scheme and come with various adaptations tailored to meet individual needs, such as driving controls.  

Other features include things like a one-touch automatic tailgate and a wheelchair ramp release. This design makes it much easier for wheelchair users, allowing them to enter and exit the vehicle without having to manually open and close the door or lift and pull the ramp themselves. Instead, they can easily open and close the rear door and operate the ramp or lift by simply pressing a button on their key fob. 

Popular models of drive-from wheelchair WAVs include the Ford Grand Tourneo Connect and the Peugeot Rifter. Both offer rear-entry ramp access and can accommodate three additional passengers. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Peugeot Boxer are among the largest drive-from WAVs available, both equipped with lift access.