Car customization: driving with amputation and limb difference

Driving with an amputation may sound impossible to many. But thanks to technologies like 3D scanning and 3D printing, as well as individually fitted prostheses and orthoses, mobility without limbs has become a reality. F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH and its partner rahm GmbH demonstrate how car customizations can make independent driving possible.

At a glance: what this article covers

How people with amputations or limb differences can drive a car
Which assistive technologies and customizations make it possible
How prostheses and orthoses are adapted using 3D scanning and printing
What’s assessed during an individual driving needs evaluation

Car customization for greater independence

Customized car with special controls for driving with a prosthesis; Copyright: F. Sondermanns Automobile GmbH

Technology that enables mobility: customized vehicles open up new paths to independence for people with amputations.

Self-determined mobility is essential – especially for people with physical disabilities. F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH specializes in customizing vehicles so that driving is possible even without arms or legs. The company draws on more than 25 years of experience in this field.

Strong partnership: combining technology and healthcare expertise

A key success factor is the close cooperation with rahm GmbH. Together, the two companies develop tailored mobility solutions that combine advanced technologies such as 3D scanning, digital modeling and 3D printing with orthopedic expertise. The result: precisely fitted prostheses or orthoses that can be integrated with driving aids such as the Space Drive system – TÜV-approved and adapted to the user's needs.

Driving with a prosthesis: what’s technically possible

Driving with a prosthesis is possible if the residual limb has healed well, the prosthesis fits correctly, and strength and reaction time are sufficient. For safe operation, the prosthesis and vehicle technology must be precisely aligned – both in functionality and in fit. The connection is individually designed, tested and approved.

Needs assessment as the foundation for customization

Each person has different physical conditions and needs. That’s why F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH and rahm conduct a certified needs assessment as early as the first appointment. This includes:

evaluation of mobility and muscle strength
reaction time testing
assessment of the ability to operate lights, indicators, horn, sun visor
checking whether a transfer from wheelchair to driver’s seat is possible
determining whether the car needs to be driven directly in a wheelchair
assessing the ability to start the engine and fasten the seatbelt independently
checking whether electronic assistive controls are necessary

Even minimal muscle strength can be sufficient to operate digital steering and braking systems safely.

Getting started: test drives and driving eligibility

In most cases, a test drive can be arranged on the very first day. One of the modified training vehicles is adapted to the driver's individual needs during the initial consultation. If transferring from a wheelchair to the driver’s seat is not possible, a compatible driving wheelchair is provided.

Depending on national regulations, a medical assessment and vision test may be required to confirm that the person is fit to drive a customized vehicle. These evaluations typically focus on coordination, reaction time, and the safe operation of assistive controls.

Technology that enables independence

The range of customized vehicles spans from compact cars with wheelchair loading systems to vans that can be driven directly in a wheelchair. Additional solutions are available, including foot steering systems, personalized control devices, fastening aids and wheelchairs approved for use as driver’s seats – all of which can be tested on the company's own driving practice site.

Enabling mobility through expertise, technology and support

With or without a prosthesis – many people with amputations have successfully passed a driving test or fitness-to-drive assessment thanks to the combination of modern technology, medical expertise and personal support. F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH and rahm GmbH work together to provide customized mobility solutions – helping people gain independence and freedom in everyday life.

REHACARE.com; Source: F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH

Nadine Lormis smiles in to the camera; Copyright: Victoria Emanuel

Editor: Nadine Lormis | REHACARE eMag

Nadine Lormis has been writing about (digital) developments in the assistive technology sector, self-determined living and inclusion for over 15 years. As editorial director of the REHACARE eMag, she is closely networked with the community of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses – both professionally and personally.

Originally published on: December 7, 2022
Last updated on: June 20, 2025

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Do I need a new license if I drive with assistive controls?

This depends on local regulations. In many cases, a reassessment or driving test may be required to verify fitness to drive with a customized vehicle. Check with the relevant local authority for details.

Can I drive without using a prosthesis?

Yes – depending on the individual situation. Many customizations, such as electronic assistive controls or the Space Drive system, enable safe driving without the use of a prosthesis. A personalized assessment will help determine what’s possible.