Vehicle conversions with a difference: accessible classic cars and boats

PARAVAN works on individual vehicle conversions every day. The company tries to find a solution for every problem and every physical limitation. The success stories of its customers prove that mobility and the joy of it need not be restricted by physical barriers – thanks to the innovative spirit of a team that works tirelessly to make mobility accessible to everyone.

Christian can finally take the wheel again. Since a cycling accident, he has been dependent on a wheelchair and is not allowed to drive vehicles on the road, as head and mouth controls are not permitted there. But it's a different matter on the water. The 48-year-old mechanical engineer now navigates independently with a boat specially converted for him, which he steers using a mouth joystick.

Christian is just one of many whose mobility dreams have become reality thanks to PARAVAN. The innovation company specializes in barrier-free vehicle solutions – and that means much more than just cars. Whether classic cars or boats, PARAVAN apparently knows almost no limits when it comes to getting people with physical disabilities moving again.

For many car enthusiasts, classic cars are the epitome of style and elegance. But what happens when a classic car fan is confined to a wheelchair after an accident and still doesn't want to give up their dream car? Steffen, a classic car enthusiast, faced precisely this challenge. After his accident, the world of classic cars seemed inaccessible to him – until PARAVAN came into play. The technical team set about making a legendary Citröen DS accessible for him – a real precision job. A special wheelchair and the "Robot 3000" wheelchair loading aid find space in the trunk. Brake and accelerator? They are now operated by hand.

The result: Steffen can go on tour independently again without having to rely on outside help. "The pursuit of mobility is a strong motivation for people with physical limitations and mobility stands for independence to live my life," says Steffen enthusiastically.

Christian also dreamed for a long time of being able to be mobile again independently. The PARAVAN technology team converted the boat together with a shipyard in Rostock. A lifting device is used to transfer Christian from his wheelchair to a special chair with shock suspension, which absorbs the impact of the waves. The boat is controlled with the Space Drive driving and steering system and a 4-way joystick, which he operates with his mouth. Accelerating, steering, maneuvering – everything is in his hands, or rather: in his mouth.

The first test run took place on Lake Constance. The goal was clear: to adapt the boat perfectly to the North German. After a few cautious turns and speed tests, Christian hits full throttle with a smile. "I was impressed by the precision and responsiveness of the new steering on the water," he reported afterwards. "The experience of sitting at the helm again and steering my boat myself is something I first have to get used to."

PARAVAN gets people moving again

The PARAVAN team works every day to help people with physical disabilities regain their independence. Each project is developed in close collaboration with the customer, because every conversion is unique. For Christian and Steffen, this dedication has paid off: they are mobile again, independent and ready for new adventures – whether on the road or on the water.

PARAVAN will also be exhibiting at REHACARE in Hall 6 from September 25 to 28, 2024, together with other car conversion companies. You can look forward to numerous innovative mobility solutions.

Jennifer Meyer
REHACARE.com