Manual Vs Automatic Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
Manual vs Automatic Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
One of the most important decisions when purchasing a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), just like purchasing any other vehicle, is choosing between an automatic or a manual gearbox. You will need to choose between both based on your driving preference.
Factors to consider when choosing between a manual and an automatic gearbox
Where will you be driving?
Considering where you will be driving will help you make a decision between a manual and automatic gearbox. If the route you will be travelling on has traffic lights and roundabouts, and you find you get tired from the continual gear changing, a WAV with an automatic gearbox may suit you best. This way, you won't have to change gear frequently; but if you live in a place that doesn't have a lot of traffic lights and roundabouts, you can get a WAV with a manual gearbox because the ability to change gears comes in handy when driving on different terrain such as muddy paths.
Car Control
If you like to have control of your vehicle when driving, then a manual WAV gearbox is the best option for you because you will change the gears yourself. However, if you are an inexperienced driver or you don't like the constant change of gear then the automatic WAV gearbox may well be for you. The lack of clutch in an automatic gearbox makes driving easier.
Fuel consumption
Another important thing to consider before choosing between a manual or automatic gearbox is fuel consumption. You need to think about the fuel efficiency of both gearboxes. If you will be going on a long journey with your WAV it is advisable to go for a manual gearbox because it is more fuel efficient than the automatic gearbox. However, if you will be using your vehicle more locally, to run errands around town for example, you could go for an automatic gearbox.
Repair Cost
A vehicle with a manual gearbox is less expensive, and if it has an issue the repair is also likely not to be as costly as it would be with an automatic WAV gearbox. Though automatic gearboxes are more sophisticated than the manual gearbox, always make sure you consider your pocket before choosing, because at the end it all comes down to your financial capability of maintaining the vehicle if repair is needed.
Manual WAV gearbox overview
Vehicles with manual transmission are less expensive compared to vehicles with automatic transmissions. If you like having control of your vehicle then manual transmission is for you, as the driver themselves changes the gears. If anything happens to the vehicle it is cheaper to repair. Manual vehicles are cheaper to buy and also more fuel efficient, providing 5 and 15% miles per litre of petrol or diesel.
Automatic WAV gearbox overview
Wheelchair accessible vehicles with automatic gearboxes are more expensive to buy and when something goes wrong with them, the cost of repair is higher. Automatic transmission vehicles are sometimes more suitable as you can keep both of your hands on the wheel because it has no clutch, which makes driving easier. If you are a wheelchair user, driving automatic WAVs gives you more room and adaption choice, and makes driving more pleasurable - whether you drive from your wheelchair or transfer into the driving seat.
View All of our Automatic WAVS
Each gearbox has its own unique features. By reflecting on the features important to you, choosing the right gearbox won't be difficult. If you need assistance with weighing your options, please call one of our consultants at WavMob who will be happy to help you.
Not sure what type of vehicle that would suit you best? Take a look at used WAVs at WavMob today and choose from various WAVs.
Let’s have a chat
If you are local to us (Portsmouth area), come in and have a coffee and take a look at our range of WAV vehicles in stock.
If you are not on the (sometimes) sunny south coast, you can find all our vehicles online. Give us a call on 02392 245570, and we can talk you through the process.
We can also send you a video of any car you like so you can get a better feel for the vehicle.