How Do You Choose the Right Wheelchair-Accessible Car in India?
Owning or accessing a wheelchair-accessible car in India, where infrastructure for the differently-abled is still maturing, constitutes an exodus to independence and ease. Aside from the choices of owning wheelchair cars in India or trusting wheelchair taxis in India, these are the guidelines that’ll aid you in making a decision.
Introduction to Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle is designed to carry wheelchair users from place to place and allow them to be comfortably and safely transported. Either factory-built or modified, these vehicles enable wheelchair users to enter exit and travel without transferring from their wheelchairs. All this is happening at a time when, in India, with the increasing demand for wheelchair-accessible cabs, companies and individuals are trying to work out practical solutions to ensure seamless mobility for all.
Below is a detailed discussion of the alternate options and what to consider.
Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
The following are the various types of Wheelchair taxis in India:
Vans: Vans are a favourite due to their spacious interior. And due to such interiors, these can easily be modified with ramps and lifts.
SUVs and MPVs: Various car models like SUV have become popular due to better strength and comfort built into the vehicle. They have more ground clearance space, thereby making it a softer ride for wheelchair users.
Hatchbacks and Sedans:
Despite having limited sizes, some hatchbacks and sedans can be customized to suit individual needs. These are more budget friendly and can be used for personal use.Custom Built Vehicles:
Companies provide completely customised mobility solutions that cater to individualistic wheelchair demands.
Key Features to Consider in a Wheelchair-Accessible Car
Opting for a wheelchair car in India for your loved ones is quite a procedure because of the crucial features that should be accessible at the right price, assuring utmost safety, comfort, and flexibility. Here are some of the features one must verify:
- Entry Mechanism: The preferred choices should be adequately ramped or hydraulic lift vehicles for ease of entry and exit. Basic foldable ramps are cost-effective solutions, while hydraulic lifts provide a more sophisticated and comfortable approach.
- Interior Space: There should be adequate headroom and legroom for the wheelchair to fit in along with the user’s comfort in the car.
- Safety Features: Safety restraints attached to the wheelchair, anti-slip flooring, security lock mechanism: these are some of the must-have safety features for a safe ride.
- Ease of Driving: If the wheelchair user drives, care must be taken to install hand controls, swivel seating, and steering aids to make it easier.
- Seating Arrangement: A few WAVs afford the opportunity for a wheelchair user to sit in the front passenger space, while others have standard seating for a family or for caregivers.
- Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance: In India, fuel and maintenance costs are of utmost importance; thus, always choose models that enjoy a reputation for low running costs and easier servicing.
Customisation and Modification Options for Wheelchair Accessibility
In India, wheelchair-accessible cabs have to be modified to meet individual customer requirements. Customisation includes but is not limited to:
- Ramps and Lifts: The installation of a ramp, either manual or automatic in function, is perhaps the most common modification. Think along the lines of vans, SUVs, or even sedans.
- Lowered Floors: Some vehicles are modified to lower the floor for accessibility purposes.
- Swivel and Transfer Seats: These rotate out to facilitate entry from wheelchair use.
- Driver Modifications: Customised controls like hand-operated brakes, steering knobs, and accelerator systems are designed for wheelchair users who wish to drive.
- Additional Safety Features: Safety harnesses, wheelchair locks, and anti-slip mats are features that may provide increased security and comfort to users.
Comparison of Key Features, Comfort, and Adaptability
| Vehicle Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
|
Vans |
Spacious, adaptable, family-friendly |
Spacious, adaptable, family-friendly |
|
SUVs/MPVs |
Comfortable, better ground clearance |
Higher cost than sedans or hatchbacks |
|
Hatchbacks |
Affordable, compact |
Limited space for extensive modifications |
|
Custom-Built |
Tailored to exact needs |
Expensive, longer delivery timelines |
Conclusion
We believe that the Wheelchair taxi in India can be potentially life-changing for wheelchair users. At Buddy, our wheelchair taxis are equipped with the latest wired remote-control hydraulic lifts, ensuring your safety and comfort during every journey. Our focus is to provide the best comfort and maximum flexibility to your loved ones so that they can enjoy a more inclusive, accessible, and meaningful transportation facility.
