* This post is written by one of our content creators - it is not sponsored. *
We have teamed up with Lewis Reed to create a series of honest Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) reviews. To learn more about the company, their vehicle adaptions, and the Motability Scheme, check out their introductory post. To read our other Lewis Reed vehicle reviews, simply click the links at the end of this post!
The Volkswagen Caddy Maxi is a compact, yet spacious vehicle that is also easy to drive and extremely practical. The maximum wheelchair size, height of occupant and need for excessive medical equipment have clearly been taken into consideration, as this vehicle is available to order in a variety of configurations. Combining personal preferences and physical needs during the conversion process to ensure that all passengers are provided with an enjoyable, time saving, and socially integrated experience! Best of all, the Lewis Reed design team also made further improvements to create a quieter, smoother ride - something I really appreciated, as you typically feel every bump and rattle when you are travelling in a wheelchair.
This vehicle has plenty of room to comfortably accommodate one wheelchair user and five other passengers, including the driver. The Flexi-Seat system allows you to choose several different seating positions and storage solutions, enabling optimum comfort with zero compromises. The image below demonstrates some of the available seating arrangements - I preferred option two, which includes 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 a part 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.
As mentioned above, this vehicle is designed for optimum access. The headroom for the both rear seat passengers and wheelchair user 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. For increased independence and total luxury, you can opt for a fully automated rear entry system, allowing the tailgate and ramp to automatically deploy with the click of a button.
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. Be sure to see the video linked below for an in-depth look at these safety features, including the nonslip winch.
This vehicle has some additional key features that make driving just as enjoyable as passenger riding. Starting with the choice of either a short or long floor option; making it the longest lowered floor in its class and allowing practically any wheelchair to sit comfortably alongside the other passengers. Next up is the Sure-Fit 200, which is an upper seat belt adjuster that can be easily moved using one hand to ensure the user can find a safe and comfortable position for the belt. Along with integrated ambient lighting, making it easier to operate such systems easily in the dark.
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.
Felix (my caregiver, partner, and driver) thought that the vehicle combines performance with practicality; making it perfect for long car journeys and quick to access on a rainy day - we were able to load and safely secure my wheelchair in under two minutes! He was pleasantly surprised by the small turning circle and the fact the vehicle maintained the famous VW look, despite the extensive conversions. As you can see in the images below, Fliss was also super comfortable and enjoyed having the perfect dog-sized window to look out of!
To see this vehicle conversion in action, simply check out our video review linked below. You can also visit the Lewis Reed office in Bromborough, call them on 0151 343 5360, fill out their online request form or arrange a home demonstration!
Hi, I'm Lauren and I have been living with a collection of disabilities for the past 8 years. I initially had a passion for teaching children with special needs, but my health prevented me from pursuring my dream career. Despite this, I now love nothing more than sharing my experiences to help other people living with disabilities.
Hi, I’m Lori and was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and a family of co-morbid conditions which has made life highly complex. However I constantly aim to make life as ‘normal’ and fulfilling as possible - and through this, I discovered the benefits of writing about my journey.
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