Because most of them have a rear slope that does not give enough headroom or space for a wheelchair user, cars are not really suitable for a WAV conversion. Though multi-purpose vehicles are bigger than a standard car, they are still not an ideal shape and cost much more to convert than a commercial vehicle.
That is why Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) are usually converted from a car that is based on a commercial vehicle, or a commercial vehicle itself.
As commercial vehicles are square at the back – designed for transporting and carrying items – there is increased room to accommodate a wheelchair and easier access in and out.
Most WAVs have a ramp for wheelchair access installed as part of the conversion. This may be manual, automatic, or gas-assisted. In addition, the vehicle’s floor might be lowered to give the wheelchair user maximum headroom inside as well as the window view. However, in larger WAVs, the floor may be kept flat and a lift for the wheelchair user’s access may be installed instead.
While choosing the right WAV may seem complicated, a dedicated WAV conversion company has the level of knowledge and excellent customer service required to guide customers to their ideal, bespoke solution.
With over 20 years experience producing and selling wheelchair accessible vehicles in the UK, you can be sure that we can offer excellent customer service with a level of knowledge that is completely unrivalled.