Vehicle adaptations

Options for wheelchair-accessible vehicle conversions

 

There are various options for converting a vehicle to make it wheelchair accessible, depending on the needs of the child and the type of vehicle:

  1. Wheelchair ramp or lift: a ramp or lift can be installed to transport the child sitting in a wheelchair safely into the vehicle. A manually or electrically operated ramp makes it possible to push the wheelchair directly into the vehicle, while a lift raises the wheelchair into the vehicle using a platform. The lift can be installed either on the side or at the rear of the vehicle.
  2. Safety devices and seat belt systems: The conversion also includes the installation of special safety belts and restraining devices that securely restrain the child in the wheelchair during the journey. This ensures that the child remains safe and stable in the vehicle, even when braking or cornering.
  3. Interior adaptations: In many cases, the interior of the vehicle is adapted to allow sufficient space for the wheelchair and the child. This includes adapting the seats or removing parts that are not required, as well as adjusting the ceiling height in order to position the wheelchair optimally. Special seats or additional padding can also be fitted for the child's comfort.


Procedure:

A vehicle conversion for transporting a child in a wheelchair is carried out in several steps:

  • Consultation and needs analysis: first, a consultation with a car conversion specialist determines which conversions are necessary for the vehicle in order to transport the child safely and comfortably in a wheelchair.
  • Planning and quotation: Based on the requirements, a conversion plan is drawn up, which includes the selection of suitable ramps, lifts and safety devices. A cost estimate and time frame are defined.
  • Selection and ordering: The required components such as ramps, lifts and safety belts are selected and ordered. The interior of the vehicle may be adapted to make room for the wheelchair.
  • Conversion work: The ramp or lift is installed, seat belts and restraints are installed and the interior is adapted accordingly.
  • Test and handover: After the conversion, a functional test is carried out, followed by instruction on how to use the vehicle. The vehicle is then handed over to the family.
  • Aftercare: Some providers offer maintenance services and support to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of the conversion.

 

Reports from the community:

 

Ramp

We had a Mercedes Citan converted: Rear bench removed, two individual seats fitted in the back instead and a ramp installed. Everything was done by the company AMF, and the integration aid covered the costs.

 

Access ramp

Absolutely minimalist, with access ramps, locking rails and lashing points. We don't use it that often, as my older sister is the wheelchair user and we don't have her over that often. The conversion only cost €1,800 at the time. However, the most expensive part was the hardware, i.e. the straps and the like.
Our daughter is not yet in a wheelchair; that will be the case later. However, we will try to transport her in her car seat for as long as possible.
Friends of ours are facing the problem that they will soon have two wheelchair children, plus a healthy child, 2 adults and a dog. If you have a good suggestion for this, that would be great. It is unfortunately coupled with not too much financial means.

 

Side lift

We have a side lift from AMF Bruns in a VW T6 Multivan. We use a K90 Aktiv, which was extremely narrow, but I don't think it's in production any more.

 

A255 single-arm lift

We had our Mercedes V-Class converted last fall. The conversion includes an electric wheelchair lift with one arm and a power knot system inside the vehicle. My daughter remains seated in the wheelchair and is attached to the power nodes in the car. This makes everyday life much easier for us, as there is no longer any need to move or lift the heavy wheelchair. The E-Fix drive has made the wheelchair 18 kg heavier. The lift is a single-arm lift A255 from the Italian company Mariani.

 

Rail system smartfloor system floor

Our car will now be converted in January/February. We have a Renault Trafic in the long version. A rail system will be installed in the rear area so that the seats can be mounted flexibly and an electric wheelchair can also be attached. We also get a mobile ramp. Our son has to lie down on long journeys, so he gets an adapted reclining shell for the entire rear seat. The front passenger seat will be a lift and swivel seat to make transferring easier. A 230V connection is also installed so that the ventilation system with humidifier can be operated during the journey.
The entire conversion will be carried out by Sodermanns. The costs are fully covered by integration assistance (it is worth submitting an application before the child starts school, as this is then independent of income and assets).