Mobility of the future: focus on accessible car conversions and emission-free drives

The mobility of the future will not only be shaped by technological progress, but also by social changes. For people with disabilities, it is crucial that the transition to zero-emission vehicles also takes their mobility needs into account. Current developments, particularly in the field of disability-friendly car conversions, show that this is possible - and that alternative drive types such as hydrogen and electric are playing an increasingly important role.

One company that is setting new standards in the development of vehicles for people with disabilities is AMF-Bruns. Six months ago, the conversion specialist presented the world's first wheelchair-accessible vehicle with a hydrogen drive. A significant step towards emission-free and inclusive mobility. The hydrogen drive offers a promising alternative to conventional combustion engines and battery-powered electric vehicles as, according to the manufacturer, it enables a range of up to 400 kilometers - an important prerequisite for people who rely on accessible vehicles.

Pioneers of conversion: AMF-Bruns and hydrogen mobility

Together with the Stellantis automotive group, AMF-Bruns has now also developed innovative conversion solutions for models such as the Citroën SpaceTourer, Opel Zafira and Peugeot Traveller. According to AMF-Bruns, these vehicles are fully tailored to the needs of people with disabilities. They offer space for up to seven people or five people and a wheelchair. With a rear cut-out and an access ramp, they provide comfortable access for wheelchair users.

The demand for electric vehicles is also growing steadily – especially in urban areas. The advantages of these vehicles – low operating costs, lower emissions and a pleasantly quiet driving style – are attractive. However, converting them to barrier-free versions is still a challenge. This is where F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH comes into play, working in cooperation with e.GO Mobile SE to show what an accessible electric vehicle can look like. With their innovative approach, they offer a solution for people who want to be mobile in the city without sacrificing the environmental friendliness of an electric vehicle.

PARAVAN is another company that converts electric cars into vehicles suitable for disabled people. The company converted a Skoda Enyaq for Svenja Gluth. The influencer is also known on social media as svenjas.welt and relies on an active wheelchair. Her electric SUV was equipped with the PARAVAN Space Drive system, which enables people with severe mobility impairments to drive a vehicle independently. Svenja Gluth steers her Skoda with a 2-way joystick. She steers with her right hand and operates the accelerator and brakes with her left hand. She uses the car's other functions, such as the electric sun visor and indicators, via touchscreen and voice control. Thanks to a wheelchair loading system, she can stow her wheelchair independently in the trunk and have it lowered back to the driver's door, giving her a level of independence that is invaluable for many people with mobility impairments.

Although the conversion of electric vehicles to barrier-free versions is technically challenging, especially in terms of the permitted total weight and the additional power consumption of wheelchair lift systems, the growing demand and the increasing number of orders show that a gap is being closed here.

The shift towards inclusive and emission-free mobility is already in full swing. But the mobility transition is far from over. It remains to be seen which types of drive will prevail and how the technology will develop in the coming years.

However, one thing seems certain: the future of mobility will be emission-free and it will include everyone – regardless of their physical abilities. The road ahead may be challenging, but with companies like AMF-Bruns, Sodermanns, PARAVAN and other pioneers in this field committed to innovative, accessible solutions, sustainable and inclusive mobility is within reach.

AMF-Bruns, Automobile Sodermanns and PARAVAN will also be exhibiting at REHACARE in Hall 6 from September 25 to 28, 2024, together with other car conversion companies. Visitors will also have the opportunity to get behind the wheel again in the PARAVAN driving school vehicle and "experience" their personal mobility on the outdoor area.

Jennifer Meyer
REHACARE.de