What Are Car Adaptations?
Car adaptations are modifications made to a vehicle to enable a disabled person to drive or travel as a passenger. These range from simple additions like a steering knob to complex conversions such as wheelchair accessible vehicles with lowered floors and ramps.
Adaptations can be fitted to a vehicle you already own, to a new car purchased privately, or through the Motability Scheme. Many adaptations fitted through Motability are provided at no additional cost.
Driving Adaptations
Hand Controls
Hand controls allow you to operate the accelerator and brake using your hands instead of your feet. The most common types include:
- Push-pull hand controls where pushing the lever brakes and pulling accelerates
- Twist-grip controls similar to a motorcycle throttle
- Under-ring accelerators fitted below the steering wheel
- Electronic accelerator and brake systems for people with very limited strength
Hand controls are one of the most commonly fitted adaptations and are well-established technology. A qualified adaptation specialist will assess which type suits your strength, range of movement, and driving style.
Steering Aids
If you have limited grip strength or can only use one hand, steering aids make it easier to control the vehicle:
- Steering knobs or balls that allow one-handed steering
- Tri-pin grips for people who cannot grip a ball
- Steering wheel gloves that strap your hand to the wheel
- Power-assisted steering upgrades to reduce the effort needed
- Joystick steering for people with very limited movement
Pedal Modifications
For drivers who can use their feet but have specific needs:
- Left-foot accelerators for people who cannot use their right foot
- Pedal extensions for shorter drivers or those with limited leg reach
- Pedal guards that prevent accidentally pressing the wrong pedal
Secondary Controls
Operating indicators, lights, wipers, and the horn can be difficult with limited hand function. Adaptations include:
- Remote secondary control panels mounted near the steering wheel
- Voice-activated controls
- Touch-pad or switch-operated systems
- Extended stalks that are easier to reach
Passenger Adaptations
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs)
A WAV is a vehicle that has been converted to allow a wheelchair user to travel while remaining in their wheelchair. Conversions typically include a lowered floor, a ramp or lift, and wheelchair securing systems.
WAVs are available as rear-entry or side-entry conversions. Rear-entry vehicles are more common and typically more affordable, while side-entry conversions offer easier access in tight spaces.
Wheelchair Hoists and Lifts
If you transfer out of your wheelchair into a car seat, a hoist can lift and store your wheelchair in the boot. Options include:
- Rooftop hoists that store the wheelchair on the roof
- Boot hoists that lift the wheelchair into the boot space
- Crane-style person hoists that lift the user into the vehicle
Transfer Plates and Turntables
These are fitted to the car seat and allow you to slide or rotate into position without twisting. They are particularly useful for people with hip or spinal conditions.
Getting Adaptations Through Motability
The Motability Scheme offers a wide range of adaptations, many at no extra cost. The process is straightforward:
- Discuss your needs with your Motability dealer
- A specialist adaptation company will assess what you need
- Adaptations are fitted before or shortly after you receive your vehicle
- The cost is often covered by Motability, though complex adaptations may require a contribution
Common adaptations provided at no extra cost include hand controls, steering aids, pedal modifications, and wheelchair stowage solutions.
Getting Adaptations Privately
If you are not on the Motability Scheme, you can have adaptations fitted privately through specialist companies. Costs vary significantly depending on the adaptation:
- Steering knob: from £30
- Hand controls: from £500 to £2,000
- Left-foot accelerator: from £300 to £800
- Wheelchair hoist: from £1,500 to £4,000
- Full WAV conversion: from £10,000 to £30,000+
Grants may be available through the Access to Work scheme, the Motability Charitable Trust, or local disability charities to help with costs.
Driving Assessments
Before having adaptations fitted, it is strongly recommended to have a driving assessment at one of the UK’s specialist driving assessment centres. These centres can evaluate your abilities and recommend the most suitable adaptations.
Assessments are available through the Driving Mobility network, which has centres across the UK. The assessment typically costs between £60 and £100 and includes time in an adapted vehicle with an instructor.
Sources & Useful Resources
Official Resources
- GOV.UK: Financial Help (Transport) – includes Access to Work vehicle adaptation grants
Charity & Advisory Resources
Product Comparisons
- Autochair – leading UK manufacturer of disabled car adaptations, lifts, and hoists