The Future of Electric WAVs: Overcoming Challenges & Embracing Accessibility

Discover the challenges of Electric Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (eWAVs) and how our innovative adaptations are paving the way for accessible EVs today. Explore our insights into the future of electric WAVs and let’s drive change together.

The Growing Demand for Electric WAVs

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is undeniable, providing an eco-friendly and sustainable choice as we head toward the 2035 ban on diesel/petrol cars. With plenty of EVs available, and many suitable to be adapted for disabled people, it begs the question, why is there still a significant gap in the market for eWAVs?

A WAV is a van derived vehicle that has been converted to enable a wheelchair user to travel within the vehicle whilst remaining seated in their wheelchair. As a type of adapted vehicle, it provides an essential accessible travel solution for wheelchair users where mobility is significantly limited. However, there is a pressing gap in the market with only a handful of eclectic WAV options currently available. Limiting the options available for those who require an accessible solution and forcing many to compromise on sustainability.

Why Are There So Few Electric WAVs?

Typically when a van is being converted into a WAV, the floor is lowered and fitted with a ramp to accommodate a wheelchair user when entering through the rear or side of the vehicle.

However, the battery placement in EVs under the vehicle floor is where the problem lies for WAV converters as they have restricted access to lower the floor in order to create the height required for someone seated in a wheelchair. Therefore there are limited vehicle models suitable for a WAV conversion in the EV market.

The Future of Electric WAVs: Potential Solutions

Whilst technology advances fast in the automotive world, accessible design from the original vehicle manufacturers remains stagnant. Vehicle manufacturers must collaborate with WAV converters to find a feasible solution; is the answer in battery technology, so it requires less space, or is it within the engineering design to relocate the current batteries or an entirely different solution? But without working together from the initial design stage, eWAVS are going to remain limited. 

An example of this collaboration for the future of WAVs is this revolutionary e-Vita concept from Motability Operations and CALLUM. Its innovative design embodies the future of WAVs, showcasing how EV technology can seamlessly integrate with features that enhance usability and comfort for disabled users. The e-Vita concept, with its potential for features like automated ramps and intuitive interfaces, demonstrates the possibilities of smart technology in WAVs.

Leading WAV converters such as Allied Mobility, have introduced a fully electric WAV, the Peugeot Rifter eHorizon which provides an eco-friendly solution. Still, these electric vehicles that can be converted are bigger, more expensive and have lower specifications than most electric cars on the road.

Making EVs Accessible Today with Our Adaptations

While full eWAVs remain a challenge, our adaptations make standard EVs accessible and offer an ideal alternative solution to WAVs. In fact, vehicle adaptations are by far the most popular solution as they can be fitted into hundreds of different makes and models, affording you a greater choice of cars to suit your wants and needs. This allows you to enjoy all the benefits and luxuries of standard cars, but making them accessible and drivable to your individual requirements. We offer:

Driving Aid Solutions

Adaptations such as hand controls and pedal adaptations can be fitted to enable those who struggle or are unable to operate the standard accelerator and brake in a car to still drive.

Easy Vehicle Access

Drivers and passengers with reduced mobility can be seated with ease from a wheelchair or scooter by making use of our car accessibility aids including swivel seats, person hoists and transfer plates.

Mobility Device Loading & Stowage

It’s imperative that those with mobility devices such as a wheelchair or mobility scooter can easily get it in and out of their car. Solutions such as boot hoists, platform lifts and rooftop boxes enable you to lift, load and store a device all at the touch of a button.

Not only do these adaptations provide access to an EV, but actually prioritise independence and comfort for disabled drivers and passengers. Which is hugely critical as, according to gov uk, in 2023, 29% of disabled adults lived in households without access to a car.

The Road Ahead for Electric WAVs

Together, vehicle manufacturers, WAV converters, policymakers and the disability community can drive change in the design of electric WAVs. 

Our cutting-edge adaptations prioritise accessibility and inclusivity on the roads, while allowing drivers to be kind to the planet with EVs. We’re advocating for an automotive landscape where everyone has the freedom to roam!

For disabled drivers looking to adapt their current vehicles or explore options for electric vehicles, Mobility in Motion is committed to ensuring EVs can be used by anyone with our wide range of disability driving aids and adaptations. Get in touch with our team of mobility experts online or call us on 0800 288 4422.