Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles - your questions answered (2025 update)

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles can make a big difference to your lifestyle, offering freedom and independence to individuals with disabilities and their families and carers. They provide easy access and safe travelling for wheelchair users.
This article will help answer any questions you have about Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles, making it easier for you to decide if they’re the right choice for you.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) are vehicles that are specially converted so a wheelchair user can travel as a passenger or driver. WAVs start as a standard vehicle and are altered by specialist engineering companies so that a wheelchair user can ride comfortably.

You’ll need to weigh up your options. WAVs are generally based on vans and typically have fewer features than a standard car, or a car with adaptations.
If you can already get in and out of a vehicle from your wheelchair without too much difficulty discomfort, then a car with alterations may be a better choice. Those alterations can include transfer plates, person hoists and swivel seats, most of which are cheaper options that could improve movement. Vehicles can also be altered to provide ample space for stowing a wheelchair or scooter – for example adding boot hoists or rooftop storage boxes. But WAVs do have a lot of expanded accessibility features, designed to meet the needs of wheelchair users. These often include automated ramps or lifts for easy entry and exit, securement systems like tie-downs or docking stations to keep wheelchairs safely in place during travel, and adjustable or swivel seats for added comfort. Some WAVs also offer lowered floors for increased headroom and advanced driver-assist technology for wheelchair users who want to drive independently. If you are looking for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles, start your search on Auto Trader by clicking here.

If you decide that a WAV is the best type of vehicle to suit your needs, you must next consider which type, and size, would be best for you.

Passenger WAVs are the most common type of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle. Passenger WAVs allow wheelchair users to travel as a passenger. They are specially adapted for the wheelchair to access the vehicle via a ramp or lift, which is then secured in place once they are comfortable.

Drive from wheelchair WAVs are bespoke vehicles made to allow a wheelchair user to drive themselves. They have more adaptations than a standard WAV and are likely to be more expensive. These vehicles can be specially tailored to the needs of the wheelchair user and, as such, can take a longer to be built and delivered if bought brand new. However, some are still available in the used market at reasonable prices and are ready immediately.

The size of the vehicle is another important choice, depending on your circumstances. Small WAVs include the Fiat Doblo, Citroen Berlingo, Ford Tourneo, and Volkswagen Caddy. Small WAVs are all fitted with a ramp for entry, seat up to five passengers (including the wheelchair user and driver) and tend to feel the closest to driving a standard car.
Medium-small WAVs include the Vauxhall Combo, Volkswagen Caddy Maxi and Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. These slightly larger WAVs include six seats and more space for equipment. They also give the wheelchair passenger more choice in terms of seating. Like small WAVS, they still feel relatively car-like in terms of size. Medium-large WAVs are the next size up, featuring vehicles such as the Ford Custom, Peugeot Traveller, Volkswagen Shuttle and Renault Trafic. These vehicles more closely resemble vans and are most commonly used by those with larger wheelchairs. They carry up to nine passengers and some even offer capacity to carry two wheelchair users. Medium-large WAVs are also fitted with ramps but can also accommodate lifts if necessary. Last up we have large WAVs which include the Peugeot Boxer, the Renault Master and the Fiat Ducato. These larger vehicles resemble commercial vans and are typically used by large families or those with heavy wheelchairs. All large WAVS are fitted with a lift system and can usually fit up to two wheelchair users.

A brand-new WAV can be ordered through a franchise retailer that has a WAV in their model range. Used WAVs are sold by both franchise and independent retailers. You can search both WAVs and adapted vehicles from a variety of specialist dealerships on Auto Trader.
It is important to note that WAVs are VAT exempt if the vehicle is for the personal use of someone with disabilities and the vehicle has been adapted to suit their needs. If the vehicle is for commercial purposes (e.g. a taxi or car home) then VAT will be charged on top of the purchase price at 20%.

Depending on your WAV supplier, and if you are buying new or used, your vehicle can take anywhere between seven days and 16 weeks to arrive. Once it is ready, your supplier will typically deliver it directly to your home. The company will show yourself or your carer around the vehicle and let you know how each of the features work. At this point, feel free to ask the supplier any questions you may have.
Often your WAV will come with a handbook, detailing everything you need to know about your vehicle. You’ll also need to check your insurance documents to make sure your nominated drivers are listed. Ready to start searching? Find a wheelchair accessible vehicle here, or learn more about the cars available in the Motability scheme here.

The cost of a WAV can vary widely depending on its size, features, and whether it’s new or second-hand. Smaller WAVs typically start around £10,000 to £15,000 for used models, while larger or bespoke WAVs can cost upwards of £30,000. However, there are financing options available, such as monthly payment plans or leasing through the Motability scheme.
Grants from charities or government programs may help cover the cost for eligible individuals. It’s important to research and compare options to find a solution that fits your budget.

1. Can you comfortably transfer from your wheelchair to a standard car? If transferring is difficult or uncomfortable, a WAV can be safer and more convenient.
2. Do you need to travel independently or as a passenger? If you want to drive from your wheelchair, consider a "drive-from-wheelchair" WAV. If you'll only travel as a passenger, a standard WAV may be ok. 3. How many passengers will typically travel with you? Consider the seating requirements for your family, carers, or companions to choose the right vehicle size. 4. What storage space do you need for mobility aids? Think about whether you need space for extra wheelchairs, scooters and other equipment. 5. What is your parking situation? Do you have enough room at home or work for a larger WAV, or would a smaller model fit your needs better? 6. Will you primarily use the vehicle in urban or rural areas? Smaller WAVs are easier to manoeuvre in tight urban spaces, while larger ones may be better suited for rural areas or longer trips. 7. What is your budget? Consider the upfront costs of the WAV and any ongoing costs such as maintenance, insurance and fuel. 8. How quickly do you need the vehicle? If you need a WAV urgently, consider looking at used models, as custom-built vehicles can take several months to arrive. 9. Do you require specific accessibility features? Do you need a ramp or a lift, lowered floors, automated doors, or a specific wheelchair securement system? 10. What type of wheelchair do you use? Larger or powered wheelchairs may require more interior space, while smaller or manual wheelchairs may fit in more compact WAVs. 11. Are there multiple wheelchair users in your household? If so, you may need a larger WAV that can accommodate two wheelchairs at once. 12. Do you qualify for financial assistance or exemptions? Check if you’re eligible for VAT exemption, the Motability scheme, or grants to help with the cost of purchasing or leasing a WAV.

You can learn about the Motability scheme and its eligibility criteria on our Motability page.