Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) are a lifeline for many individuals with mobility issues. They offer the freedom to travel without the hassle of transferring from a wheelchair to a car seat. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the top 5 used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles that you can buy today. We’ve also gathered insights from GowringsVersa Mobility, a leading supplier of WAVs, to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a Used WAV?
Purchasing a used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle can be a cost-effective way to gain mobility. Used WAVs often come with the same features as new ones but at a fraction of the price. Plus, they are usually RAC-approved, ensuring quality and reliability.
What to Look for in a Used WAV
When choosing a used WAV, consider the following factors:
- Vehicle Size & Accessibility: Ensure the vehicle can accommodate your wheelchair and any additional equipment you may need.
- Passenger Capacity: Determine the number of seats you’ll need for family or caregivers.
- Lifestyle Requirements: Assess your daily activities and travel frequency to ensure the vehicle aligns with your lifestyle.
Top 5 Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
1. Ford Grand Tourneo Connect
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect is a versatile Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) that offers a unique seating arrangement to accommodate various passenger needs. This vehicle has a variety of seating configurations and has versions with either 2 seats in the mid-section or a benchseat, these offer comfortable seating for family members or caregivers.
In addition to these, the vehicle can also be fitted with two additional tip-and-fold seats in the rear. These seats can be easily folded away when not in use, providing ample space for a wheelchair. This design allows the vehicle to be incredibly adaptable. When the wheelchair position is not being used, these tip-and-fold seats can be set up to carry up to 6 passengers, making it an ideal choice for larger families or groups.
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect is not just about space; it’s about utilising that space smartly. Whether you are going on a family outing or have to make a quick trip to your local supermarket, this vehicle ensures that you can do so without any hassle.
For more details on the Ford Grand Tourneo Connect, you can visit GowringsVersa Mobility’s page dedicated to this vehicle.
2. Renault Trafic
The Renault Trafic, an identical vehicle to the original Vauxhall Vivaro, stands out as a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) that combines a robust design with a spacious interior. Its sturdy build ensures durability and reliability, making it a long-lasting investment for those with mobility needs.
But what truly sets the Renault Trafic apart is its spacious interior. The vehicle offers ample room, not just for passengers but also for any additional equipment you may need to carry. Whether it’s medical equipment, luggage, or even a pet carrier, the Renault Trafic can accommodate it all without compromising on comfort.
The spaciousness of the Renault Trafic is particularly beneficial for those who lead an active lifestyle and require extra space for sports equipment or other outdoor gear. It’s also an excellent choice for caregivers or medical professionals who need to transport multiple pieces of equipment.
The Renault Trafic doesn’t just offer space; it offers space that is functional and easy to navigate. With its well-designed interior, loading and unloading equipment or getting in and out of the vehicle becomes a hassle-free experience.
For more information on the Renault Trafic, you can visit GowringsVersa Mobility’s page dedicated to this vehicle.
3. Volkswagen Caddy
The Volkswagen Caddy is a standout Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) that offers a compact solution without skimping on accessibility features. Its smaller size makes it an ideal choice for city dwellers who often have to navigate through narrow streets and tight parking spaces.
Despite its compact dimensions, the Volkswagen Caddy is designed to offer full accessibility. It comes equipped with a range of features such as a lowered floor and a ramp, making it easy for wheelchair users to enter and exit the vehicle. The interior is thoughtfully designed to ensure that the wheelchair user can be comfortably and securely positioned.
The compact size of the Volkswagen Caddy is a boon for those who live in urban areas. It’s easy to manoeuvre and park, which is often a significant concern in cities where parking spaces are at a premium. Moreover, its fuel efficiency is another advantage, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting.
What sets the Volkswagen Caddy apart is its ability to offer a compact solution without compromising on the essentials. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice accessibility features for the sake of convenience.
For more details on the Volkswagen Caddy, you can visit GowringsVersa Mobility’s page dedicated to this vehicle.
4. Fiat Doblo SpacePlus
The GowringsVersa Mobility Fiat Doblo SpacePlus conversion is unique to GVM and is set apart from other small vehicles due to its “class leading” space for the wheelchair passenger. Boasting an impressive 58” of internal headroom this small vehicle outshines even some of the larger WAV’s. Although no longer available as a new vehicle the Fiat Doblo SpacePlus is a remarkable Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) that offers a range of seating configurations, making it an ideal choice for those who require flexibility in their daily lives.
Accommodating Multiple Wheelchairs
Since its introduction to the GowringsVersa range in 2012 one of the standout features of the Fiat Doblo SpacePlus is that it was designed with the wheelchair passenger at the heart of the conversion. The retention of the bi-link suspension ensures a smooth ride for all of the occupants.
The space offered for the wheelchair passenger, and the ability to have a seat either side of the wheelchair space, has made the Fiat Doblo SpacePlus a popular vehicle for both families, care homes and patient transport organisations. The vehicle’s design allows for easy entry and exit, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for all passengers.
For more information on the Fiat Doblo SpacePlus, you can visit GowringsVersa Mobility’s page dedicated to this vehicle.
5. Vauxhall Movano MWB Lite
The Vauxhall Movano MWB Lite, also known as the Renault Master MWB Lite, stands out as a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) that offers ample space, making it an ideal choice for specific scenarios such as patient transport and care homes.
Accommodating Multiple Wheelchairs
One of the most noteworthy features of the Vauxhall Movano is its ability to accommodate multiple wheelchair users. This is particularly beneficial for organisations like care homes and patient transport services that require a vehicle capable of carrying several wheelchair users at once. The vehicle’s design allows for easy entry and exit, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for all passengers.
Ideal for Patient Transport and Care Homes
The Vauxhall Movano’s larger size and multi-wheelchair capacity make it an excellent choice for patient transport and care homes. Its spacious interior can comfortably accommodate both passengers and any necessary medical equipment, making it a versatile solution for a range of healthcare needs.
Designed for Comfort and Safety
The Vauxhall Movano is not just about space; it’s about creating a comfortable and safe environment for its passengers. Every aspect of the vehicle is designed with user comfort and safety in mind, from the secure wheelchair restraints to the ergonomic seating for other passengers.
For more details on the Vauxhall Movano, you can visit GowringsVersa Mobility’s page dedicated to this vehicle.
Financing Your WAV
GowringsVersa Mobility offers various finance options to make your purchase easier. They act as a non-independent credit intermediary for a limited number of finance lenders and can introduce you to a range of finance products to assist with your vehicle purchase.
Renting a WAV
If you’re not ready to commit to a purchase, GowringsVersa Mobility also offers short and long-term rental options with the flexibility of home delivery and collection.
The Motability Scheme
The Motability Scheme empowers disabled individuals to utilise their government-funded mobility allowance to lease a new WAV. GowringsVersa Mobility has over 50 years of experience in providing WAVs through this scheme.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle can dramatically improve your quality of life. Whether you opt for a Ford Grand Tourneo Connect for its flexibility or a Vauxhall Movano for its spaciousness, the key is to find a vehicle that suits your unique needs. With options for financing and renting, as well as the support of schemes like Motability, gaining mobility has never been easier.
