What is a Drive from WAV and is one right for me? A DFW vehicle guide
When you first begin your search for a wheelchair accessible vehicle, you’ll probably find you are presented with lots of different options and things to consider.
Two of these things are whether you would like to drive or be a passenger, and whether you would like to remain in your chair while travelling.
If you are looking to be the driver of the vehicle, a Drive from WAV may be one of your options. Today we’re taking a closer look at this type of wheelchair car with a guide to the things you need to know if you’re considering one.
What is a drive from WAV?
A Drive from WAV is a type of WAV where the wheelchair user drives while still sitting in their chair. Sometimes called a DFW (Drive From Wheelchair) vehicle, or a ‘wheelchair driver car’, they are the most bespoke type of WAV, since they need to accommodate the person’s specific needs in a way that allows them not only to travel but also to control all elements of the car.
They will generally have a levelled or lowered floor to accommodate the wheelchair, as well as adaptations like hand controls, steering spinners or pedal extensions. In many cases, these adaptations are significant, especially since all WAVs start as standard vehicles – although only a specific few lend themselves well to these conversions, since headroom and the resulting eye level of the wheelchair driver is a primary consideration.
They may be used by people who are unable to transfer out of their wheelchair, or who simply would rather not. Everything in a drive from WAV has been designed for the user to be able to control themselves, often enabled by a great deal of automation and hands-free systems.
Drive from WAVs are one of two types of WAV where the wheelchair user drives – the other being an internal transfer WAV, where the person moves from their wheelchair to a seat in order to drive the vehicle.
How does a drive from WAV differ from other types of WAV?
The key thing that differentiates a DFW vehicle from other types of WAV is that most other types of wheelchair accessible vehicle are designed for the wheelchair user to travel as a passenger. These vehicles still offer great independence and mobility, but only Drive from WAVs and Internal Transfer WAVs facilitate the wheelchair user driving.
Many (but not all) other types also involve the wheelchair user travelling in the rear of the vehicle, where Drive from WAVs and Internal Transfer WAVs allows the wheelchair user to sit up front.
Of the two, Drive from WAVs are the only type that allow the wheelchair user to both drive and remain in their wheelchair. They are generally more expensive than other types of wheelchair vehicle, as the level of tailoring and complexity is high.
Who are drive from WAVs suitable for?
A Drive from WAV is best suited to:
- Those with a crash tested electric wheelchair – this is a must, although it does not need to be a specific make or model
- Those who cannot, or don’t want to, transfer from their wheelchair
- Those whose chair will be accommodated by a Drive from WAV – the measurements of the chair are very important, since the height of your eyeline will need to be right to enable safe driving
- Those looking for the highest level of independence from their WAV and the ability to drive solo
Can you have passengers in a Drive from WAV?
Often it is possible to accommodate passengers in a drive from WAV, if additional seating has been put in place. Additional seating options should be space efficient and able to be folded down or away, such as tip and fold seats fitted to the rear, or interchangeable seats, which can be ‘locked’ into place but also moved into different positions within the vehicle.
A Drive from WAV generally has fewer seats than other types of WAV, since there needs to be clear entry from the point of access to the driving position.
Can a Drive from WAV be driven by someone who is not the wheelchair user?
If an interchangeable seat has been installed, it is also possible for the DFW to be driven by someone else, since generally it will be possible to put the interchangeable seat in the driving position, allowing the driver and passenger to switch places.
Can a wheelchair user be a passenger in a Drive from WAV?
Yes, the wheelchair user can travel as a passenger in a Drive from WAV; when the interchangeable seat is in the driving position, the wheelchair user can take the upfront passenger position in order to take a break from driving, which makes this set up very flexible.
How do you enter and exit a Drive from WAV?
Drive from WAVs tend to be accessible either from the side or the rear. Entrance and exit are fully automated, whether this is via a tailgate or a sliding door and a side ramp, and you will have a key fob, button or other control in order to remotely operate these.
From the point of entry you will need to make your way to the driving position. There may be several ways to do this based on the configuration of your vehicle; for those with a lowered or levelled floor, you will often be able to manouevre into place and therefore turn yourself to exit facing forwards, whereas for those with a channelled floor (a channel for the wheelchair that runs from the entrance to the driving position) you may not be able to turn.
How is the wheelchair secured in place in a Drive from WAV?
In a Drive From Wheelchair vehicle, the wheelchair is secured using a wheelchair lockdown. This device, similar to a docking station, is attached to the floor of the vehicle and usually a corresponding part is fitted to the bottom of the wheelchair which ‘locks in’ to it. This keeps the driver and any passengers safe and comfortable while travelling.
The wheelchair lockdown is usually operated via a switch or other remote mechanism, so that you can release your wheelchair when stationary.
The benefits of choosing a Drive from WAV
If a Drive from WAV suits your needs, it comes with lots of benefits.
The highest level of independence
Because a DFW vehicle can be entirely operated by the wheelchair user and is tailored entirely to their needs, it offers the very highest level of independence. Whether you are looking to enjoy solo driving or need the option to transport others, a Drive from WAV gives you a high degree of autonomy for living life your way.
Plenty of space
Because a Drive from WAV needs to have room for the wheelchair to safely travel into the driving position and does not tend to have many other seats, there is often a lot of room in the back of the vehicle, which can be ideal if you need to transport other equipment or luggage.
Flexibility
The variety of adaptation options and the tailoring of the car entirely to your own needs make it a very flexible option – as does the ability to install different passenger seat options that can be folded away or switched around.
No need to transfer
Many people get on very well with an Internal Transfer WAV, but for others, staying in your chair may be far preferable. With a Drive from WAV there is no need to change seats – just enter the vehicle and drive!
Browse our range of WAVs today
Ransome Mobility has been serving customers across East Anglia and beyond for over 30 years. If you are looking for a wheelchair accessible vehicle for sale or wheelchair accessible vehicle for hire, you can browse our range on our website. Alternatively, to discuss whether a Drive from WAV is right for you and the ins and outs of getting one on the Motability scheme, please contact us.