WAV Guide: Your Questions Answered

Choosing your first wheelchair accessible vehicle can be a little daunting, so make sure you work with a reputable experienced 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.

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What is a wheelchair accessible vehicle?

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.

What is the process for converting a WAV?

Conversion companies will sell a fully converted WAV vehicle. The base 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 vehicle, how long will it take for my vehicle to be delivered?

If you would like a new vehicle in a specific colour, the process can take up to 24 weeks. We order the vehicle from VW or Ford which could take 16-20 weeks to be delivered to Sirus, hower it often arrives sooner.  The conversion takes 2-4 weeks (depending on your conversion) then we can fit any additional adaptations you require. Read more about the process here. 

If you aren’t specific regarding the colour or specification of your new vehicle, we often have vehicles in stock, so you can have a vehicle much sooner.

Alternatively, opt for an Approved Used vehicle which can be delivered to you in just 1-2 weeks (depending on adaptations).

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

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 vehicle is quite a bit higher than a standard unconverted vehicle due to a longer conversion process. Sirus conversions have a fully lowered floor (to give you maximum interior headroom) which is a much more involved process and means rebuilding the underside of the vehicle.

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

Sirus has Motability Preferred Adaptations Supplier status. 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 and some prefer a personal loan, so will apply for specialised WAV Finance.

Are the vehicles tested after they have been converted?

All conversion companies have to have certification on their converted vehicles. Our WAV vehicles 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 vehicles.

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 has a team of engineers who can come directly to your home should you require assistance.

Can I request a home demonstration?

Sirus offer free, no-obligation 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 vehicle.

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, no-obligation 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. This is particularly important if you are an independent driver.
  • 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 vehicle at home?
  • Is there enough room for the vehicle 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 vehicle fuel efficient? Have you worked out your fuel costs?
  • Is there sufficient head clearance at the point of entry?
  • How is your eye level and visibility, particularly if you are a driver?
  • Do you feel comfortable when positioned in the vehicle?
  • Can you partner/carer comfortably operate the ramp and drive the vehicle?
  • Is the vehicle floor lowered which should give you substantially more headroom?
  • Are you happy with the ground clearance?

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

  • Ford WAV Internal transfer

    Internal transfer

    Sirus Ford Internal Transfer

    Our latest Ford internal transfer conversion is designed so you can transfer from your wheelchair to a standard driver seat. Plus if you don't feel like driving, you can travel upfront in your wheelchair.
  • Ford WAV Grand Tourneo Connect

    Wheelchair passenger upfront

    Sirus Ford Upfront

    Our latest Ford WAV side entry conversion is designed to enable you to travel upfront next to the driver.
  • Ford WAV Internal transfer

    Drive from wheelchair

    Sirus Ford Drive / Upfront

    Our latest Ford WAV conversion is designed to give you total flexibility. The side access design enables you to drive from your wheelchair or travel upfront next to the driver, with the option to switch places at any time.
  • vw caddy wav wheelchair accessible vehicle rear boot angle in grey in west midlands

    Internal transfer

    Sirus VW Internal Transfer

    The Sirus VW Internal Transfer is the perfect solution for wheelchair users who want to drive yet prefer the comfort of a standard driver’s seat. Our VW Caddy WAV is an extremely popular solution and an alternative to transferring at the roadside.
  • VW Caddy upfront passenger Silver rear angle in west midlands

    Drive from wheelchair

    Sirus VW Drive

    The Sirus VW Drive enables you the comfort to drive from wheelchair, eliminating the need to transfer. The rear ramp and tailgate are fully automatic and open at the touch of a button, giving you complete independence.
  • VW Caddy WAV Upfront west midlands

    Wheelchair passenger upfront

    Sirus VW Upfront

    The Sirus Upfront is designed so as a wheelchair passenger you can travel upfront next to the driver from the comfort of your wheelchair. An upfront wheelchair accessible vehicle is a much more sociable way of travelling.
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