19/02/2016
The quest for unrestricted mobility often leads to the search for vehicles that seamlessly integrate accessibility with comfort and style. The Ford Tourneo Custom emerges as a prominent contender in this domain, offering a compelling blend of premium features and highly specialised wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) conversions. It’s more than just a spacious people carrier; it's a meticulously engineered solution designed to empower wheelchair users, particularly those who wish to drive themselves, with unparalleled freedom on the road.
From its robust standard specifications to its highly adaptable WAV conversions, the Tourneo Custom is built to cater to diverse needs, ensuring that accessibility doesn't come at the expense of luxury or practicality. This article will delve into the specifics of its accessibility features, exploring how the various conversion models are tailored to provide a truly inclusive driving and travelling experience.
Beyond the Standard: What Makes the Tourneo Custom Stand Out?
Before exploring its accessibility, it's worth noting the inherent qualities that make the Ford Tourneo Custom an excellent base vehicle. Ford has equipped this model with a host of features typically found in higher-end passenger vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey for all occupants. Standard amenities such as front and rear air conditioning provide climate control throughout the cabin, crucial for long journeys and varying weather conditions. The inclusion of 17″ alloy wheels not only enhances the vehicle's aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a smoother ride.
For the driver, cruise control offers a more relaxed driving experience on motorways, while Ford's SYNC 8″ touchscreen system provides intuitive access to navigation, entertainment, and communication features. This integrated technology ensures that connectivity and control are always at your fingertips, enhancing both safety and convenience. These features, combined with Ford’s reputation for reliability, establish a strong foundation upon which the specialised WAV conversions are built.
Tailored Accessibility: Understanding the WAV Conversions
The true marvel of the Ford Tourneo Custom, in the context of accessibility, lies in its meticulously engineered WAV conversions. These are not mere modifications but comprehensive redesigns of the vehicle's rear or side access points, specifically crafted to accommodate wheelchairs with ease and safety. The goal of these conversions is to provide a user-friendly experience, whether the wheelchair user is a passenger or, significantly, the driver.
The conversions feature a full length lowered floor, a critical element that increases internal head height and reduces the angle of the ramp, making entry and exit far more manageable. This design philosophy ensures that the wheelchair user remains at a comfortable height within the vehicle, allowing them to interact naturally with other passengers and enjoy an unobstructed view of their surroundings. The choice of conversion model – Nevada, Monterey, or Colorado – dictates the specific access method and interior configuration, each designed to address different user preferences and requirements.
Nevada and Monterey: Rear Access Solutions with Powered Ramp
For those requiring straightforward, robust rear access, the Nevada and Monterey models of the Ford Tourneo Custom WAV conversion are exceptional choices. These models are characterised by their powered rear ramp, which offers a significant advantage in terms of ease of use. Instead of manually deploying a heavy ramp, a simple push of a button activates the ramp, smoothly extending it to the ground and retracting it once the wheelchair is securely inside.
The powered nature of the ramp is particularly beneficial for caregivers or drivers who may have limited strength or mobility themselves, eliminating the physical strain associated with traditional manual ramps. The full-length lowered floor ensures a gentle incline, making it easy to manoeuvre the wheelchair into the vehicle. Once inside, the spacious interior and secure restraint systems keep the wheelchair firmly in place, providing peace of mind during transit. These rear-access models are often preferred for their direct entry point and the ability to maintain most of the original seating configuration, offering flexibility for families or multiple passengers.
Colorado: The Underfloor Cassette Side Access Lift
Stepping into a different realm of accessibility, the Colorado model of the Ford Tourneo Custom WAV conversion offers an innovative underfloor cassette side access lift. This sophisticated system provides discreet and convenient side entry, which can be particularly advantageous in urban environments or situations where rear access might be limited by parking space.
The underfloor cassette lift is cleverly integrated beneath the vehicle, remaining largely out of sight until activated. When deployed, it extends a platform from the side of the vehicle, lowering it to ground level for easy wheelchair access. This design preserves the rear of the vehicle, allowing for alternative uses of the boot space, or simply a cleaner aesthetic without a visible ramp. The side access also offers a different dynamic for wheelchair users entering the vehicle, placing them immediately adjacent to the driver or front passenger area, which can enhance social interaction during journeys. The Colorado conversion is a testament to advanced engineering, prioritising both functionality and an unobtrusive design.
Designed for Drivers: Independence on the Road
A pivotal aspect of the Ford Tourneo Custom WAV conversions, particularly highlighted by the provided information, is their design around the needs of the wheelchair driver. This is a significant distinction, as many WAVs primarily focus on accommodating a wheelchair passenger. For individuals who wish to retain their independence and drive from their wheelchair, the Tourneo Custom offers specific adaptations that make this possible.
The lowered floor and precise positioning of the wheelchair docking system ensure that the driver is optimally positioned to access the vehicle's controls, including the steering wheel, pedals (if hand controls are not used), and the SYNC touchscreen system. The interior space is carefully configured to allow for the necessary manoeuvrability of the wheelchair, ensuring a comfortable and safe driving posture. This focus on the wheelchair driver means that the vehicle's ergonomics and control layouts are considered in conjunction with the WAV conversion, providing a truly integrated driving experience rather than a mere adaptation.
Key Features for Enhanced Comfort and Convenience
Beyond the core accessibility features, the standard amenities of the Ford Tourneo Custom significantly contribute to the overall experience for all occupants, including wheelchair users. The aforementioned front and rear air conditioning ensures that the cabin temperature is consistently comfortable, a vital consideration for long journeys, especially for individuals who may be more sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
The Ford SYNC 8″ touchscreen system provides intuitive control over various vehicle functions. For a wheelchair driver, this means easy access to navigation, communication, and entertainment without needing to stretch or awkwardly reach for controls. Voice commands can further enhance this convenience, allowing the driver to maintain focus on the road. Cruise control reduces driver fatigue on longer trips, making the journey more enjoyable and less strenuous. These features collectively underscore Ford's commitment to providing a vehicle that is not only accessible but also genuinely comfortable, connected, and easy to operate.
Choosing the Right WAV: A Comparative Look
Deciding between the Nevada/Monterey (rear access) and Colorado (side access) models depends largely on individual needs, parking habits, and lifestyle. Here’s a comparative overview to help clarify the differences:
| Feature | Nevada & Monterey (Rear Access) | Colorado (Side Access) |
|---|---|---|
| Access Method | Powered rear ramp | Underfloor cassette side access lift |
| Primary Benefit | Direct, wide entry; often retains more rear seating options. | Discreet, convenient side entry; preserves rear boot space. |
| Parking Considerations | Requires ample space behind the vehicle for ramp deployment. | Requires space alongside the vehicle; suitable for tighter parallel parking. |
| Aesthetics | Ramp mechanism visible when deployed; slight modification to rear door. | Lift is hidden underfloor when not in use; maintains cleaner exterior. |
| User Scenario | Ideal for families needing flexible seating; frequent use in driveways/garages. | Excellent for urban environments; individuals who value discreet access. |
| Wheelchair Driver Focus | Can be configured for driver, but entry/exit path may differ from passenger. | Often preferred for drivers due to direct access to front cabin. |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ford Tourneo Custom WAV
To further assist in understanding the capabilities of this versatile vehicle, here are some common questions and their answers:
Q: What does WAV stand for?
A: WAV stands for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle. These are vehicles that have been specially converted to allow a wheelchair user to travel whilst remaining in their wheelchair, either as a passenger or as the driver.
Q: Can the Ford Tourneo Custom WAV accommodate different types of wheelchairs?
A: The conversions are designed to be highly versatile. While specific dimensions depend on the exact model and conversion, the full-length lowered floor generally allows for a wide range of manual and powered wheelchairs. It is always recommended to check the specific internal dimensions and ramp/lift weight capacities with the converter or dealer.
Q: Is it comfortable for non-wheelchair passengers?
A: Absolutely. The Ford Tourneo Custom maintains its inherent comfort features, including front and rear air conditioning and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers, whether in a wheelchair or a standard seat. The WAV conversions are designed to integrate seamlessly without compromising general passenger comfort.
Q: How does the SYNC 8″ touchscreen system benefit a wheelchair driver?
A: The SYNC system provides intuitive and easy access to navigation, communication, and entertainment. For a wheelchair driver, this means less physical effort to interact with the vehicle's controls, often with voice command capabilities, enhancing safety and convenience by keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
Q: Are there different seating configurations available with the WAV conversions?
A: Yes, while the core accessibility feature (lowered floor, ramp/lift) remains, the seating configuration can vary. Some models may retain more standard seating alongside the wheelchair position, while others might be optimised for maximum wheelchair manoeuvrability, potentially reducing the number of conventional seats. This flexibility allows for customisation based on family size and specific needs.
Q: Is the maintenance for a WAV different from a standard vehicle?
A: Routine vehicle maintenance for the engine, brakes, etc., remains the same as a standard Ford Tourneo Custom. However, the WAV conversion components (ramp, lift, restraint systems, lowered floor) will require periodic inspection and servicing by a specialist to ensure they remain in safe and optimal working condition. It's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for these specific components.
Q: Can I drive the Tourneo Custom WAV with hand controls?
A: Yes, the design focused on the wheelchair driver means that the vehicle is highly adaptable for various driving aids, including hand controls. Most WAV converters can facilitate the installation of such adaptations to suit individual driver needs, allowing for a fully customised driving experience.
Q: How secure is the wheelchair once inside the vehicle?
A: All professional WAV conversions include robust wheelchair restraint systems and occupant safety belts that comply with safety standards. These systems are designed to securely anchor the wheelchair to the vehicle floor and provide a seatbelt for the wheelchair user, ensuring maximum safety during transit.
Q: What is the typical process for acquiring a Ford Tourneo Custom WAV?
A: The process typically involves consulting with a specialist WAV dealer or converter. They will assess your specific needs, demonstrate the different models (Nevada, Monterey, Colorado), and discuss any additional adaptations required. They can also guide you through funding options, such as the Motability Scheme in the UK, if applicable.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Unrestricted Mobility
The Ford Tourneo Custom, with its specialised WAV conversions, stands as a testament to thoughtful engineering aimed at enhancing independence and quality of life for wheelchair users. Whether it's the robust, powered rear access of the Nevada and Monterey models or the discreet, sophisticated side access of the Colorado, each variant is crafted with precision to offer a safe, comfortable, and dignified travel experience. The emphasis on designing for the wheelchair driver truly sets it apart, providing a pathway to genuine automotive independence.
Combining Ford's inherent reliability and standard comfort features with these advanced accessibility solutions, the Tourneo Custom offers a holistic package. It's more than just transport; it's a vehicle that empowers individuals to embark on journeys with confidence, knowing that their mobility needs are not just met, but exceeded. For anyone seeking a versatile, comfortable, and truly wheelchair accessible vehicle, the Ford Tourneo Custom undoubtedly warrants serious consideration.
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