WAV buyers guide
Choosing your first WAV isn’t as straightforward as choosing a standard car. You need to consider the needs of the wheelchair passenger which will have an effect on the type of vehicle you choose. Find out more in our WAV buyers guide.
Since buying a WAV vehicle can be overwhelming, we at GM Coachworks have put together a buyers guide, available for free download. This buyers guide has been specially put together by our experienced sales team to help you find out what vehicle suits your needs best, and help you decide on a model which fits in on your everyday life. In this guide we discuss travel experience, seating arrangements, adaptations and more.
If you’re not yet ready for the change from a standard car to a WAV there are a wide range of adaptions available that can help you stow your wheelchair or scooter. We also offer solutions to aid getting in and out of a car including seating options. Here are some of the benefits of adaptations:
- Adapted cars are based on standard cars and tend to have more features and a higher level of internal comfort than WAVs.
- They have the benefit of enabling you to remain in the comfort of a standard car seat.
- If sitting in the front, as a passenger or driver, is important to you, adaptations such as a transfer plate or person hoist can enable you to continue sitting in the front of the car at a fraction of the cost. This is especially important if your regularly travel as a couple.
- The cost of adaptations is generally less than a WAV.
Although WAVs offer a fantastic mobility and independence solution for a large number of our customers, they won’t be right for everyone. If you are able to transfer out of your wheelchair without it causing too much discomfort a standard car fitted with adaptations may be a better choice. Adaptations such as transfer plates, person hoists and swivel seats could help improve your access to a car.
If you are no longer able to transfer from your wheelchair to a standard car seat, or if your carer is no longer able to physically assist you, a WAV could be the answer. We have thousands of WAV customers who value the independence it gives them.
- If the wheelchair user is sensitive to temperatures, make sure to check the vehicles air conditioning and heating will suit your requirements.
- Keep in mind the size of your family when looking at a WAV vehicle to make sure there is enough space for all passengers.
- Consider locations where you frequently travel or park to ensure the van can go in those locations.
- Think if the driver needs any modifications to make the experience of driving a WAV better and easier. This could include automatic transmission or steering control adaptions.