WAV – Volkswagen Caddy Maxi

WAV Description:

This vehicle is compact, yet spacious; whilst also being easy to drive and extremely practical. It combines personal preferences and physical needs during the conversion process, ensuring all passengers are provided with an enjoyable, time saving and socially integrated experience!

Source of WAV:
Lewis Reed

* The opportunity to test drive this vehicle was kindly gifted by Lewis Reed in exchange for a review, but all opinions are my own. *

Diagnosis:

Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

Personal Opinion:

It is clear that the maximum wheelchair size, height of occupant and need for excessive medical equipment have been taken into consideration when converting this vehicle, as it is available to order in a variety of configurations.

Size & Space:
There is plenty of room to comfortably accommodate one wheelchair user and five other passengers, including the driver. The Flexi-Seat system allows you to choose a number of different seating positions and storage solutions, enabling optimum comfort and zero compromises. I preferred having two standard seats in the front and two folding/removable seats in the rear with a space in the middle for my wheelchair. Allowing me to be apart of the conversation and close to my assistance dog, as opposed to being at the back of the vehicle by myself. All whilst having enough room for my endless medical supplies, oxygen machine, and luggage.

Easily Accessible:
The headroom for both rear seat passengers and wheelchair users is exceptional, plus there are large darkened windows that offer a fantastic eye line once inside – something I rarely get to enjoy due to being so tall! The rear entry system includes a rattle-free TorSpring ramp designed by Lewis Reed, which is lightweight, durable and easy to use. It also allows the vehicle to retain a stylish look once the doors are closed.

Safety:
Lewis Reed offers a wide range of restraints, powerchair lockdowns and winches to ensure the process of loading and unloading wheelchair users is quick and easy. Securing any wheelchair in place and preventing sudden movement whilst in motion.

Additional Options:
You can choose from either a long or short floor option; both of which allow practically any wheelchair to sit comfortably alongside the other passengers. The Sure-Fit 200 is an upper seat belt adjuster that can be easily moved using one hand, allowing you to find a safe and comfortable position for the belt. Along with integrated ambient lighting, allowing passengers to operate such systems easily in the dark.

Conclusion:
Overall, I think the Volkswagen Caddy Maxi is a great choice for passengers like myself with ever-changing needs, as I know the vehicle could continually be adapted over time to accommodate different wheelchairs, a growing family and future medical supplies. It is also reasonably priced in comparison to other wheelchair accessible vehicles on the market and is available on the Motability Scheme.

For more information about this test driving experience, including my carers thoughts and opinions, check out the links below!

– WV Caddy Maxi Blog Post

– Introduction To Lewis Reed

– Video Review

– Other Lewis Reed Reviews