FAQs

A wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) is a car, van or people carrier adapted to allow a wheelchair user to travel safely and comfortably. Depending on the conversion, the wheelchair user can remain seated in their wheelchair or transfer to a standard vehicle seat.

The Peugeot Rifter is one of our most popular choices. It offers a good combination of manageable size, headroom, visibility, ease of driving and economical running costs. However, suitability always depends on the wheelchair, the passenger and the particular conversion.

There are small WAVs, family-sized vehicles, MPVs and larger wheelchair accessible minibuses. Some have rear-entry ramps, others have side-entry access, and some allow a wheelchair passenger to sit upfront. The right choice depends on the wheelchair user, the number of passengers and your individual needs.

Yes. Both new and used WAVs are available. Used WAVs are often a more affordable option, but it is important to check the vehicle and its adaptations, including ramps, restraints, seat belts and any other specialist equipment.

Eligible disabled people may be able to lease a WAV through the Motability Scheme using a qualifying mobility allowance. Some vehicles require an additional Advance Payment, and the allowance is used towards the lease over its term. Always consider the overall cost and current scheme conditions.

Prices vary according to the vehicle age, size, mileage, specification and conversion. Used WAVs are generally less expensive than new models, while larger or specialist conversions can cost considerably more. Remember to consider insurance, maintenance, servicing and fuel costs too.

Yes. Many WAVs are specifically designed for this purpose. The wheelchair must be secured using suitable restraints, and the passenger must have an appropriate occupant seat belt or restraint system. The wheelchair and vehicle conversion must also be compatible.

Yes, provided they are properly designed, maintained and used. At Wheelchair Cars, we check the ramps or lifts, wheelchair restraints, seat belts and associated safety equipment. We also provide a certificate confirming the safety testing carried out. Making sure the vehicle suits the individual wheelchair user is equally important.

Not necessarily. Many WAVs can be driven with a standard UK car driving licence. However, larger vehicles and minibuses may have additional requirements depending on their weight, passenger capacity and intended use.

Depending on your circumstances, assistance may be available through the Motability Scheme, charities or other organisations. Some people may also qualify for support with specialist vehicle adaptations. Eligibility and availability vary between schemes.

There are several important things to consider:

• Does the wheelchair fit comfortably?
• Is the ramp or lift easy and safe to operate?
• Is there sufficient headroom and manoeuvring space?
• Can the vehicle accommodate carers, family members and other passengers?
• Are the wheelchair restraints and occupant seat belts suitable?
• Is the ride comfortable for the wheelchair user?

Our team can help you work through these questions before choosing a vehicle.

Yes. A WAV that you own can be used for everyday family journeys, subject to its seating and carrying capacity. If your vehicle is leased through the Motability Scheme, it must be used in accordance with the scheme rules and for the benefit of the disabled customer.

Start with a specialist WAV dealer who understands the different conversions. The most important consideration is whether the wheelchair user can enter, travel comfortably and exit safely. At Wheelchair Cars, we help customers narrow down the options to find a vehicle that genuinely suits their needs. Browse our current showroom vehicles.

There is no single best WAV for everyone. The right vehicle must suit both the wheelchair user and the driver. A wheelchair fitting inside a vehicle does not automatically mean the ride will be comfortable or the vehicle practical to use. We take time to understand your circumstances and recommend a suitable conversion.

This depends on whether you need to transport a wheelchair user, a mobility scooter or both. Ramps are often our preferred option for their simplicity, but lifts can work well in certain situations. The wheelchair or scooter dimensions and the passenger needs must always be considered before choosing.

This depends heavily on the wheelchair and the passenger. Vehicles such as the Volkswagen Caddy and Peugeot Traveller are available with passenger-upfront conversions, but each has its own limitations. Headroom, lowered-floor dimensions, wheelchair size and ease of entering and exiting all play an important role. We can explain which conversions are most likely to suit you.

A good mid-position WAV can allow a wheelchair passenger to sit comfortably among the other occupants, rather than being isolated at the rear.

However, not all conversions achieve this equally well. The lowered floor must provide adequate height and space for the wheelchair and footrests. Some conversions are far more inclusive than others, so assessing the actual wheelchair and passenger is essential.

Some of the smallest WAVs include the Fiat Qubo, Peugeot Bipper and Citroën Nemo, although these vehicles are now relatively uncommon. Their compact dimensions may be useful where parking or vehicle size is a concern, but they will not suit every wheelchair. We recommend choosing a vehicle based on the wheelchair and passenger requirements first.

Yes. Specialist drive-from-wheelchair vehicles are available, although the adaptations can be complex and require expert assessment. Safe entry, wheelchair docking, driving controls and exiting the vehicle must all be considered. We do not normally stock these vehicles and recommend using a specialist experienced in drive-from-wheelchair conversions and docking systems.

This depends on the wheelchair user and the vehicle conversion. A mid-position layout often offers a comfortable, stable ride and keeps the passenger closer to the other occupants. Passenger-upfront conversions may be preferable for some people. Wheelchair height, size, access and personal comfort should determine the final choice.

We generally prefer to avoid conversions where the wheelchair passenger sits behind two complete rows of seats, right at the back of the vehicle. This can make conversation with the driver difficult and may produce a less comfortable ride. Wherever possible, we favour layouts that allow the wheelchair user to travel comfortably and feel included with everyone else.