WAV Buying Guide: Your Questions Answered

Choosing your first wheelchair accessible car can be a little daunting, so make sure you work with a reputable experienced vehicle conversion company who can give you help and advice on conversion options, adaptations, funding and insurance, as well as providing no obligation home demonstrations and test drives.

What is a wheelchair accessible car?

Commonly known as ‘WAV’s’, they are referred to as ‘vehicles’ as opposed to cars because most WAV conversions are derived from commercial vehicles (i.e. VW Caddy Life, Ford Tourneo Connect etc.) This is due to the fact a minimum height is required to allow you to enter and/or comfortably travel in the vehicle in your wheelchair whilst maintaining good visibility and comfort. Other variation may include WAV vehicles or WAV cars.

Have you thought about where you would like to sit?

Sirus Automotive specialise in Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles where you sit upfront in the passenger position, drive from your wheelchair, or transfer from wheelchair to a standard driver’s seat. We also carry out adaptations to standard cars which are designed to assist with getting in and out, driving, and lifting/stowing a wheelchair.

What is the process for converting a WAV?

The vehicle is purchased from the manufacturer (i.e. VW, Ford) and the conversion is carried out in the factory in the UK.  Once complete, any bespoke adaptations will be fitted to suit your individual needs.

Once I have ordered my new car, how long will it take for my vehicle to be delivered?

If you are open to the colour or specification of your new vehicle, we often have vehicles in stock, please ask us for further details. Alternatively, opt for an Approved Used vehicle that can be delivered to you in just 1-2 weeks (depending on adaptations).

*Timescales may differ due to current supply issues.

How can I ensure I am getting a high-quality conversion?

Sirus will design the conversion in-house and from start to finish. We use the latest technology to ensure the conversion integrates with the original vehicle, creating a from-factory finish.

Why do WAVs cost more than unconverted vehicles?

You will find the cost of a wheelchair accessible car is higher than a standard unconverted vehicle due to the conversion process. Sirus conversions have a fully lowered floor (to give you maximum interior headroom) and exceptional build quality.

Who will fit my additional adaptations and how is my wheelchair secured?

We fit bespoke adaptations to wheelchair accessible vehicles to assist both drivers and passengers. To transport your wheelchair your conversion company will fit either manual tie-down straps  (for assisted travel) or a fully automated locking system (required for independent driving) so you can drive or travel as a passenger safely and securely.

What is the best way to fund my vehicle?

We can give you advice throughout the whole process including information on funding options. We find most of our customers opt to use the Motability Scheme. Other apply to the government-funded Access to Work.

Are the vehicles tested after they have been converted?

All conversion companies have to have certification on their converted vehicles. Our WAV cars are tested to the highest standard and have National Small Series Type Approval or Individual Vehicle Approval. All Sirus vehicles are PAS Approved and met all of the requirements of the PAS Accreditation for M1 wheelchair accessible cars.

What aftersales service should I expect?

You can except any good conversion company to provide a 3 year warranty and service on a new vehicle conversion (you will also receive a standard manufacturer warranty). Sirus also has a team of engineers who come directly to your home should you require assistance and to carry out an annual conversion service.

Can I request a home demonstration?

Sirus offer free home demonstrations and our mobility specialists are trained to offer a smooth and hassle-free experience. We providing you with sound advice and solutions to suit your specific needs.

Do you include free delivery?

Yes. Upon completion, we deliver your new vehicle directly to your door. During your handover, we will show you how to use all of the features and adaptations so that you can confidently enjoy your new Sirus car.

Questions to ask yourself before you proceed:

  • Does the company have a good reputation, with knowledge and experience within their field?
  • Does the company offer no pressure home demonstrations with experienced mobility advisors?
  • Is the product quality of a very high standard? You can have as many home demonstrations as you need, plus Sirus will welcome you to our premises to check out our workshop and meet the team.
  • Have you checked out the service and warranty? Find out what is covered and make sure they have mobile engineers who can come out to your home should you need assistance.
  • Does the conversion company also fit adaptations? It makes life easier if you can deal with one supplier.

Questions to consider during your demonstration:

  • Is there space to park the car at home?
  • Is there enough room for the car to operate? (e.g. for the ramp to lower)
  • Is there enough room to comfortably manoeuvre your wheelchair into position?
  • Is there enough storage space for any equipment you need to carry?
  • Are there enough seats for the people you usually travel with?
  • When you go out to work or shopping, are there size or height restrictions?
  • Is the car fuel efficient? Have you worked out your fuel costs?
  • How is your eye level and visibility, particularly if you are a driver?
  • Do you feel comfortable when positioned in the car?

Wheelchair Accessible Cars

  • VW Caddy wav

    Brand New Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

    Ford Connect – Internal Transfer

    Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. Transfer from your wheelchair to a standard driver seat via a powered six-way seat. Space for up to four people.
  • wheelchair accessible car

    Brand New Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

    Ford Connect – Upfront Passenger

    Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. The wheelchair user sits upfront next to the driver. Space for five people as standard, ISOFIX in mid-row seat and a standard boot.
  • VW Caddy wav

    Brand New Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

    Ford Connect – Combined Drive/Upfront

    Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. Our combined Drive From Wheelchair/Upfront Passenger solution enables you to switch from driver to upfront passenger on your journey. Space for up to four people.
  • Dacia Jogger

    Brand New Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles, Rear passenger

    Dacia Jogger – Rear Wheelchair Passenger

    Dacia Jogger. The wheelchair user sits in the rear. The UK's only Wheelchair Accessible Car. Enjoy the award-winning features of a standard car. Space for six people as standard with flexible seating options.
  • passenger upfront

    Approved Used Stock

    VW Caddy Maxi – Upfront Passenger

    Approved Used stock only. Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life. The wheelchair user sits upfront next to the driver. Space for five people as standard, ISOFIX in mid-row seat and a standard boot.
  • VW Caddy wav

    Approved Used Stock

    VW Caddy Maxi – Internal Transfer

    Approved Used stock only. VW Caddy Maxi Life. Transfer from your wheelchair to a standard driver seat via a powered six-way seat. Space for up to four people.
  • VW Caddy wav

    Approved Used Stock

    VW Caddy Maxi – Combined Drive/Upfront

    Approved Used stock only. VW Caddy Maxi Life. Our combined Drive From Wheelchair/Upfront Passenger solution enables you to switch from driver to upfront passenger on your journey. Space for up to four people.
  • drive from wheelchair

    Approved Used Stock

    Ford Custom – Drive From Wheelchair

    Approved Used stock only. Ford Custom. Drive from wheelchair solution. Space for up to six people with flexible seating options.
  • Ford WAV Internal transfer

    Approved Used Stock

    Ford Connect – Internal Transfer

    Approved Used stock only. Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. Transfer from your wheelchair to a standard driver seat via a powered six-way seat. Space for five people as standard.
  • Ford WAV Internal transfer

    Approved Used Stock

    Ford Connect – Combined Drive/Upfront

    Approved Used stock only. Ford Grand Tourneo Connect. Our combined Drive From Wheelchair/Upfront Passenger side access olution enables you to switch from driver to upfront passenger on your journey. Space for four people.