5 Great Second-Hand Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) With MotaClarity
This guide to Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) is brought to you by the disability motoring specialists MotaClarity, in partnership with the team here at Fish Insurance. In this article, James from MotaClarity tells us why WAVs are such a good option for wheelchair users and takes a closer look at five hand-picked second-hand WAVs, all carefully chosen to meet a range of diverse needs and preferences.
Who Are MotaClarity?
MotaClarity is a motoring website for drivers with a disability and carers. Think of us as a go-to resource for all things disability motoring. Our platform offers a wide range of great services and information, like our unique Motability car search which simplifies the hunt for the perfect Motability Scheme vehicle. Visitors can search based on their preferences, budget and age criteria, watch and read reviews and see how prices have changed quarter by quarter.
For those looking for a second-hand wheelchair vehicle we’ve got you covered. We list over 700 used WAVs for sale from UK accredited suppliers and mobility conversion specialists. These include rear passenger WAVs – where the wheelchair user typically gets in and out via a ramp (or sometimes a lift) at the rear of the vehicle – through to upfront or drive-from vehicles – where the wheelchair user can travel upfront next to the driver or drive the vehicle themselves.
So What Exactly Is A WAV?
WAVs are specially designed vehicles that allow individuals with mobility challenges to travel comfortably and safely. These vehicles are expertly modified to accommodate wheelchair users, providing easy access and ample space for both the wheelchair user and other passengers.
WAVs feature several key accessibility features, such as ramps, lifts, lowered floors and securement systems, to ensure safe and smooth entry and exit for wheelchair passengers. Additionally, these vehicles may have adjustable seating configurations to accommodate different seating arrangements and preferences.
One of the key advantages of WAVs is their versatility, and even second-hand examples can be adapted to suit various needs and requirements. Whether it’s for daily commuting, family outings, or long-distance travel, WAVs offer wheelchair and mobility scooter users greater freedom and independence.
Now, let’s look at the five most popular second-hand WAVs on the MotaClarity search, together with a short video review of each one.
Citroen Berlingo Multispace WAV
The Citroen Berlingo Multispace has long been a favoured and economical option for wheelchair users. Wheelchair access is facilitated by a rear ramp, with typical configurations providing seating for three additional passengers, though some variants can accommodate more. In some versions of the Citroen Berlingo Multispace, the conversion allows the wheelchair user to travel in the front of the vehicle, where the wheelchair can be securely positioned next to the driver.
Peugeot Partner Tepee WAV
The Peugeot Partner Tepee is almost identical to the Citroen Berlingo (they were both built by PSA, now Stellantis) and is an excellent option if you’re searching for an affordable second-hand WAV. It’s widely available as a used vehicle because for many years it was the best-selling WAV in the UK. This WAV can accommodate up to five people, including the wheelchair user, with entry to the vehicle through a ramp at the back. The Peugeot Partner Tepee features a spacious and bright interior, and its low rear loading height often results in a shorter ramp compared to many of its competitors.
The production of the Peugeot Partner was halted a few years ago by the French manufacturer, who introduced the Peugeot Rifter as its successor.
Ford Tourneo Connect & Grand Tourneo Connect WAV
The Ford Tourneo Connect WAV, similar to the other vehicles featured here, is converted from a small commercial vehicle platform, yet it doesn’t have the typical commercial feel when driven. It is derived from the Transit Connect and boasts a sophisticated design along with a selection of efficient engines, including the exceptional Ford EcoBoost petrol engine, although diesel versions are more commonly found in the second-hand market.
The Tourneo Connect, along with its larger variant, the Grand Tourneo Connect, offers car-like comfort, a roomy interior, and innovative wheelchair access solutions, making it convenient and comfortable for wheelchair users to travel.
Volkswagen Caddy & Caddy Maxi Life WAV
The Volkswagen Caddy Life is renowned for its ample space and practical features, including twin sliding doors and a higher roof, making it a favourite amongst WAV converters and customers. The Caddy Maxi, the larger of the two versions, is particularly advantageous due to its additional seating options and space – it accommodates five people including the driver, plus a wheelchair user, and can handle a wheelchair weighing up to 200kg. The used market predominantly offers diesel models, so buyers typically find themselves with the VW group’s TDi diesel engine, known for its fuel efficiency.
If you’re looking for a Caddy note that it tends to be one of the pricier WAVs, especially if you want an automatic version. Despite this, it holds its value well and it remains one of the more desirable used WAVs to drive, sharing many components with the Volkswagen Golf.
Ford Tourneo Custom WAV
If you live in the UK and you’re asked to think of a van, it’s likely that Ford’s Transit will be the one that immediately springs to mind. The Tourneo Custom WAV is based on the iconic Transit – often hailed as the ‘backbone of Britain’ – and is an ideal fit for wheelchair users who want a quality mid-sized WAV. It outperforms many competitors in terms of drivability, with notably good steering and well-managed body roll.
Produced until 2022, this Tourneo Custom WAV is definitely worth considering if you’re in the market for a used rear-passenger WAV that provides ample seating and luggage space for the entire family.
Search Over 700 Second-Hand WAVs
Looking for a second-hand WAV? Take a look at the wide selection of used wheelchair vehicles at MotaClarity. With our unique streamlined search, you can explore over 700 used WAVs from WAV specialists and converters across the UK, which makes finding the perfect WAV simple and straightforward. Click here to browse what’s in stock today. Your next WAV could be just a click away!
