Frequently Asked Questions

EZ-Drive focusses on quality and well, quality. Getting it right, the first time, with unmatchable workmanship and care, we stand out by far in getting what you paid for. We like to spend a little more time, giving you better quality and craftmanshipp than anywhere else. Wow!

We treat your vehicle as our own and want it to look GREAT and work seamlessly, every time.

Service is No.1. It's almost like having manners and a concience. We plan to help you for many years to come, therefore, quality is really important to us. We simply refuse to do quick crappy jobs just to make that extra buck. No, we will not. O, and if there ever should be a comeback, we treat it as such because you simply have to get what you paid for! Period.

The way we do it. Some people do not know, cannot see or observe the difference. That does not mean we can abuse the fact that customers might not realize it, even when hidden under the hood or dashboard. These days it might sound like a fable in SA (which is sad), but we stand to make a difference. We value you as a customer and want you to be safe, happy and impressed. Simple...

Google us, using all the bad words, and see what comes up. Call us to ask for a refence, a real one, not just some text that can be modified online. Call our competition. If they think we are bad, they probably are scared or just not so sure. We install any type of system anyways, just so much better. We like what we do, so when things get busy or when you are far away, we will advise you on other options, what to do or who to call. There are too many disabled drivers out there and we simply cannot help you all in time. Competition is good, it serves to your own benefit...

Ask yourself the following questions to help you choose:

  ♿   Will I be the driver, passenger or both?

  ♿   How do I plan to get in-and-out of the vehicle and where does my wheelchair go?

  ♿   Manual or automatic transmission? (Automatic transmission have cheaper hand-control options)

  ♿   Can the door open wide enough?

  ♿   Is the vehicle seat too high/low?

  ♿   Can I operate all the switch levers, ignition, buttons etc.?

  ♿   Do I buy local or do I have to import a special vehicle?

Also, How long is my ‘long term’ plan w.r.t. driving?:

  ♿   Will I cycle my vehicle often or will this be a vehicle to be used long term?

  ♿   Will I mostly be driving alone?

  ♿   Will I be driving as well as commuting as passenger?

  ♿   How many seated passengers will travel along on vacations?

  ♿   Will cargo be loaded in the trunk/boot, roof or trailer?

  ♿   Do I start with a small Sedan and work my way up to a Minibus to drive directly from wheelchair?

  ♿   What type of systems can then eventually be transferred to the Minibus?

You do not HAVE to import a vehicle. Chances are that if you have Googled something, we can do it.

Alternative options can sometimes be overlooked. Do online research and talk to friends and professionals that have experience w.r.t. disabled driving and commuting. Almost all systems available can be vehicle transferable, so it would be wise to have your system setup chosen in such a fashion that you do not need to import a special vehicle every time you need to cycle your vehicle.

Sometimes it might be a quicker option to import an already converted 2nd-hand vehicle. It might be feasable when major alterations or conversions is needed.

The advantage is that such vehicles has a low 2nd-hand value and is already homologated (only structural or vehicle design changes needs re-homologation!).

Vehicles can be purchased and imported from classifieds all over the world. UK & Australia seems to be favourites for their 'left-hand-drive' vehicles. We even have worked on a few USA vehicles too.

However, not knowing the vehicle or systems condition, might be costly to repair locally. Sometimes the model you import is not serviced by the brand locally or sometimes systems can fail on arrival. Not all system types are 'serviced' locally due to possible manufacturer's policy restrictions.

Note: When importing newly converted vehicles, the overall cost might be much more than having your vehicle converted locally. Depending on overall system setup.

Yes, indeed you can. The nice part about this method is that you can have the conversion cost financed along with the overall purchase cost. Dealerships should also be able to help you qualify for SARS tax rebates.

Do take note that applying for a tax rebate, the process can be quite lengthy at times. For more info on tax rebates, click here.

However, be cautious for the salesman that just want to make a sale or excessively overcharge you for conversion costs, especially when financing the overall purchase.

Almost all dealerships have a one-in-a-lifetime deal, but is it the right deal for you?

Sometimes the vehicle you really need might not be found at the badge you are shopping with.

BUT, please take care when demanding service delivery from car dealers. Dealerships often have their own bussiness model, apart from the company badge, customized towards their own clientelle, location or car selections on offer. Not all car dealers can accommodate every favour you pitch. Example, some dealers have drivers available to bring the car to us where others will have to charge you for transport exspenses. Remember, they are also operating a bussiness and services offered should be kept within all fairness. It remains your obligation to transparently negotiate your needs thorougly before you sign the deal.

Once the project is final and the deal is signed, the vehicle will then be brought to us.

Contact us for an 'EZ-Drive Approved' dealer.

Sometimes.

Have a look at the "Classifieds" section for any recent posts HERE.

You can also search for offers on our Facebook page HERE.

In general, definately automatic transmission vehicles is the preferred choice. If you are a 4x4 or racing enthusiast, you might prefer manual transmission. Either way is possible without compromising on safety.

The main reasons why automatic vehicles is preferred, are as follow:

Yes. EZ-Drive's objective is to install devices in such a fashion so that anyone else can just jump in and drive without the need of changing anything. We understand that owning mutiple cars is not always possible, thus we will skillfully keep your vehicle conventional optioned. However, sometimes a special need might call for exceptions like: the need to have pedals physically removed due to stiff prosthetics or entry level riased seat assemblies for shortened statures etc.

Due to the vast variety of system setups, driving conditions or the level of owner care taken, it would be dangerous to give specifics or time intervals.

Usually the obvious will call for maintenance like loose bolts, frayed cables or worn parts. As a rule of thumb, if anything does not 'seem/feel' right, it should be checked.

EZ-Drive recommends to have systems serviced yearly. All EZ-Drive manufactured system installations receive 2x free 6-month interval inspection checks after every installation and preferably every 12 months thereafter. However, again it depends on the type of systems installed and/or the distance traveled. Contact us if you need to know more.

Almost all systems available is vehicle transferable. Therefore systems can be re-sold and re-installed, YES.

What are your minimum requirements and how much comfort do you want to afford ?

No matter what your idea or business plans are, EZ-Drive will help you achieve the best possible sollution pertaining your requirements and needs.

Yes they can indeed! However, it is important to be sure that the correct system setup is chosen prior to handing over the project to the car dealer. See 'Vehicle Purchasing Guide & System Setup Planning' for more info.

Dealers receive the same quotation as requested by you, only with their own credantials addressed. They will then issue us with an official purchase order and installations will then be scheduled. The delivery time frame will be communicated to you accordingly. Note that dealers might still have to do 'pre-delivery-inspections' and other installations as per their final quote to you, thus the delivery time frame will be affected depending on the services to be rendered. Be sure to communicate this properly with your dealer.

Oh no! Unfortunately this is sometimes nescessary and will require proper planning on your part.

Reasons for this might be:

  ♿  You first need to see how much you will get from selling your vehicle.

  ♿  The dealer might have certain sales policies to adhere to.

  ♿  You might not have a 'second' converted vehicle in your garage.

Special arrangements can be made with the dealer so that you can drive your vehicle until the new vehicle is ready for collection. However, this will not be possible if you need to transfer old systems to the new vehicle.

EZ-Drive have temporary hand controls available for hire. Unfortunately, these controls can only work for persons with no leg function, and used in automatic transmission vehicles only. Contact us to find out.

Since you might not be able to drive for some time, it is therefore important to schedule the installation accordingly and in fair advance.

As mentioned above, delivery from car dealers might impose implications.

Sometimes your vehicle awaits delivery or repair.

In order to keep installation times to a minimum, scheduling help us to dedicate workshop space to each vehicle accordingly.

Stock to be imported can also result in delays.

It really depends on the type of system to be installed. Usually this will be clearly specified within written quotations.

The average lead time for 'Accelerator & Brake' adaptations is 2x full work days. Lifts and floors = 10 to 14 days. Structure rebuilding and/or outfitting = 21 up to 90 days.

System setup quotations is confirmed by customer.

The deposit is paid as per quotation (if any).

Systems are then ordered and purchased if not in stock.

Installation dates is then confirmed with the customer.

Vehicle is delivered by customer or dealership and an inspection sheet is completed.

Work on vehicle start. Any issues arising during work (if any)will be discussed with customer accordingly.

Documentation and certificates are corresponded during the course of work.

Vehicle collection date is confirmed as work is nearing completion.

Final invoice is sent and payment is made. Terms: COD.

Hand-over of the vehicle and a full demonstration is given.

A quick test drive with the technician can be executed on our lovely tranquil premises.

Maintenance of systems or devices is explained within the warranty card issued with every project or installation carried out by EZ-Drive. Maintenance procedures will vary, depending on the system(s) installed. These guides should be carefully adhered to.

It is your responsability to be on the look out for signs of wear & tear, loose fasteners, squeeky noises or sticky mechanical parts on a regular basis.

Extreme road or weather conditions will likely require more frequent lubrication, cleaning or maintenance. Many of these tasks can be carried out by yourself should you feel confident in doing so.

As mentioned above w.r.t. maintenance, service intervals are specified as per warranty card issued with every project or installation.

Rule of thumb; if something does not seem right, please book in your vehicle to have it checked.

On average, service intervals varies from every 1-3 years, depending on your setup.

The important thing here is availability! Due to the nature of our industry, not all systems are manufactured locally. Many systems or devices are imported from all over the world and therefore replacement parts sometimes have to be specially ordered. Ultimately long waiting times will occur.

Simple. Labour hours worked @ R485/h plus cost of parts, if out of warranty or terms.

Unfortunately EZ-Drive do not provide a 'call out service'. If for any odd reason this might happen, a 'call out' fee of travelled km's and time will be applicable.

This is only available for NEW systems or devices manufactured and installed by EZ-Drive and will vary, depending on the system or device.

DIY systems is designed and manufactured in such a manner that the inexperienced installer, sourced by the vehicle owner him/her-self, can be installed where minimal parts modifications is required. Such 'kits' will require little to no extra machining and will include all possible parts needed to install into your vehicle brand and model.

However, we do not recommend installing just any system yourself. Only persons with technical skill and/or abilities should install adaptive devices into vehicles.

Our installers network is ever growing and accreditation is an ongoing process. Contact us to find out if there is an experienced installer in your area.

Also see our "DIY (Do it Yourself)" page for more information.

'DIY' systems or kits requires different levels of skill in order to install devices in various types of vehicles. Some systems can be installed in minutes by just fastening a couple of bolts and others can take days and might require more advanced technical knowledge and skill.

The rating works as follow:

  ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆   Requires the most advanced experience and knowledge to install. (EZ-Drive centres only)

  ★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆   Requires advanced skills and knowledge to install. (Certified Installers only)

  ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆   Requires skilled experience to install. (Accredited Installers)

  ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆   Will require some technical experience to install.

  ★ ★ ★ ★ ★   Anyone can install.

Apart from a 5-star rating, unfortunately YES. Understanding installation integrity and safe fitment is imperative. It is required to have skills/be skilled in fields like mechanical, engineering, fitting & turning or boiler making, technical drawings, pre planning- measuring- or protracting of cut holes etc. Contact our sales department to get detailed information on the skills required for the system you intend to have fitted.

Basic tools like wrenches, screw- driver sets and work benches is required. Cutting tools and a welder cannot be absent. Please also be sure to have the nescessary safety gear at hand. However, tools required will vary depending on the type of system to be installed. Contact our sales department to get detailed information on the tools required to have your system fitted.

Since DIY systems is fitted beyond our control, only the parts is warranted for normal wear-and-tear for a period of 12 months. No EZ-Drive certifications can therefore accompany the system. Warranty claims will be subjected to inspection for correct fitment and assembly.

Since this service is not recommended and given as an alternative within complicated scenarios, installations is done within your own responsability and EZ-Drive cannot be held liable for any failure of any nature, whatsoever.

The direct effect from a specific system or setup could infringe the warranty, but only of that specific section or part of the vehicle.

Example: It would not be fair to install hand controls connected to the pedals of the vehicle and the manufacturer does not want to warrant a headlight failure because of the hand controls.

In the contrary, should for example an electronic accelerator be installed, and found that the electronics altered with was the cause for the wiring loom to burn or melt, it would not be fair to expect the manufacturer to warrant such failure. However, this also does not mean that the rest of the vehicle is no longer warranted.

Having said that, it is important to mention that not all installations result in affecting a specific area or part of the vehicle in terms of warranties. Most systems can be more classified as 'add-on devices'. Alterations or modifications to the vehicle's original design is very seldomly required or needed.

Contact us to find out if your systems of choice may infringe the vehicle warranty in any way.

  ♿   Installations

  ♿   EZ-Drive systems

  ♿   Non EZ-Drive systems

In the event of the customization of any non-EZ-Drive system be needed, specific aspects w.r.t. the original intention of the system will apply. Since the majority of systems is designed to be utilized in an universal environment, manufacturers know and expect minor changes to the systems will have to be made like modifying bracketing, drilling holes, mirroring of components, etc.

However, when changes are made to main components or assemblies of the system itself, infringement of the warranty will likely occur. Rest assured, EZ-Drive's system specialist will discuss any possible warranty infringements with you during the consultation process of the project, if any.

As per "Wikipedia's" definition of 'Refurbishment;

"The main difference between "refurbished" and "used" products is that refurbished products have been tested and verified to function properly, and are thus free of defects, while "used" products may or may not be defective. Refurbished products may be unused customer returns that were essentially "new" items, or defective products returned under warranty, and then resold by the manufacturer after repairing the defects and ensuring proper function."

Refurbished systems periodically become available from some manufacturers. Warranty policies regarding refurbished systems will vary respectively.

EZ-Drive sometimes offer refurbished systems for sale at reduced cost, carrying a 12 month 'defect free' warranty. However, EZ-Drive may periodically exclude certain parts or aspects from the warranty, depending on the type of system involved. Every system is issued with its own special warranty upon every purchase.

NOTE: Refurbished systems is NOT 'sub-standard' products. To explain this; systems are completely disassembled, parts showing fatique or excessive wear is replaced, parts is cleaned and re-coated if needed, electronic circuitry is verified & tested. The system is then rebuilt to its original state.

Generally, YES! Almost all systems can be removed and re-installed into a next vehicle. Regardless of system type or manufacturer.

Whenever possible, damaged parts like steering column cover- or dashboard holes can be closed up by aftermarket materials or if you have the funds, a new part can be fitted.

Usually, the de-installation is invoiced for hours worked. Should you choose EZ-Drive to carry out the transfer installation, the deinstallation invoice can then subtracted from your final invoice. Should you choose to sell your equipment, the deinstallation invoice is payable immediately. See the second next answer below.

However, at times, some projects may result in permanent changes made to the vehicle. See next question below:

Occasionally, installations might result permanent changes on some vehicle parts. These changes will vary. A few samples below:

Sometimes, depending on the type of system and condition. Due to the vast selection of systems available, we do not want to hoard old products that become difficult to sell over time. However, EZ-Drive can do the deinstallation and reinstallation for your buyer.

We encourage you to place your system(s) up for sale on our;

'Classifieds' page or;

'Buy & Sell' group on FaceBook.

EZ-Drive can box and store your equipment for you. Storage fees and value depreciation over time is applicable. Download the 'System Sale Disclaimer' form for more detailed information.

'Adaptive devices and products' used for vehicle conversions vary greatly. Currently, none is accepted as 'medical' products as per NAPPI-code definition (2019), thus we cannot tell you if medical aids will pay or not.

Unfortunately there is no NAPPI-code set up for "hand controls" and a new entry can only be created when an insurance company comes aboard to create a policy model including such equipment.

It's a shame that some claims are made for driving devices using a NAPPI code from 'other product types' registered. EZ-Drive simply refuse to abuse the NAPPI system.

However, some medical policies make provision for claims under a different category covered, depending on your policy structure. You need to discuss this thoroughly with your medical fund or broker.

It literally depends on the inclusions within your policy structure. Below is just a general summary as per sample.

If, for any reason your vehicle is to be replaced and/or new devices is needed, the following will apply:

  ♿   No insurance - No claim.

  ♿   System not seperately insured - No systems claim.

  ♿   Coversion not disclosed - Claim of vehicle replacement might be renounced (denied).

  ♿   System seperately insured and specified - Full claim.

Be sure about your vehicle insurance company cover (if any) w.r.t. special vehicles and how your vehicle insurance policy might be effected and what they cover and what not.

Absolutely NOT! Our experience and knowledge of the industry will definately help you choose the correct system. There is no law enforcing such measures either.

However, according to the National Road Traffic Act (RTA), you need to be able to operate the vechicle as required.

Also, assement reports will aid greatly in law suit claims such as RAF or 3rd party claims. Some insurance companies might require an assement report before a vehicle is covered. The type of report will vary.

Also see our 'Reports' section in the 'Needs analysis & system setup planning' page.

Yes. The rule is; if you need adaptive devices in order to drive, you need to 'update' your drivers license. Alomost like when you might need glasses to drive.

However, this subject tend to a bit of a grey area...

If you want to use a steering spinner to help you steer, it might be illegal to use according to the National Road Traffic Act, unless additional assistive driving devices is installed. BUT, if you cannot steer or control the vehicle WITHOUT a steering spinner, you need to drive an adapted vehicle and therefore your drivers license need to be updated.

No. License fees are payable yearly or when a vehicle is purchased.

Generally most adaptation systems can be classified as 'add-on' devices and therefore no changes to the vehicle design was made. Re-licensing of the vehicle will not be nescessary.

Should your vehicle be 'converted' (see 'Terminologies' on this FAQ page) and design changes to the vehicle was made, re-homologation is rather essential. Please refer to question below.

New vehicle models, built up vehicles and modifications of vehicles, whether locally manufactured or imported, must conform to the compulsory specifications for vehicles of the relevant class. The NRCS is the inspectorate responsible for ensuring compliance before a vehicle is registered on the eNATIS system.

When vehicle design change is the result of a vehicle 'conversion', the vehicle is then 'modified' and as per 'Compulsory Specifications', the design need to be re-homologated.

For the best explanation how to get it legally, click here.

Money back in your pocket. Here is how:

  ♿   CUSTOMS TAX -

  ♿   INCOME TAX (Personnal) -

  ♿   TAX benefits for companies -

It is illegal to add seats to a vehicle unless when tested and certified by NRCS regulations. As explained in above "homologation" section, certain 'Compulsory Specifications' make provision for adding seats and seat belts to vehicles. If the installer of seats is not 'MIB' registered, you might need to re-homologate your vehicle.

Towing regulations for towing trailers and vehicles is not what we want to discuss here. The following articles will give more clarity w.r.t. towing in SA:

      4x4 Community

      Caravan and Outdoor

      Arrive Alive

The actual question here is about the downward static force capacity for tow- hitches and bars pertaining to carriers, caddies or lugguage boxes (no wheels). This issue seems to be quite unclear w.r.t. legislation as many grey areas exist. [Bonafide litigation welcome.]

One concern is that not all vehicles are permitted to have a tow-bar installed. Simple arguments like with smaller vehicles, the chassis is not designed to withhold large pulling force or the vehicle itself is too light in weight. Some engines is also not powerfull enough to pull a trailer or the gearbox is simply not designed to convert the required torque nescessary.

Further arguments can be that apart from weight itself, when driving over speed humps, the 'bounce' of caddies or tow-hitch carriers result in a much more invasive and excessive force on the tow bar and vehicle structure than that of towing a trailer where the 'bounce' is somewhat absorbed by the wheels and stability of the trailer itself.

Finally, with tow-hitch mechanisms installed, the length of the vehicle change which might lead to a different vehicle classification altogether. However, since these attachments is usually not permanent, it still leave questions w.r.t compliance to the National Road Traffic Act.

Our industry poses a quite unique perspective on these regulations and should probably be revised in the near future. We stand to be corrected, but it seems that towbar static loads ranges between 25kg -100kg. Some even claim 120kg, but this really depend on the type of tow-bar assembly (combination or configuration) you have installed. Smaller vehicles likely have lower capacities due to 'GCM' ratios and vice versa for larger vehicles. Generally these limits are specified by the tow-bar or vehicle manufacturer. We recommend a general safe limit of 75kg on most vehicles.

Most hitch machanisms EZ-Drive have on offer, sourced or fabricated in-house, weighs less than 35kg gross mass itself. The schooter, wheelchair or cargo mass still need to be added.

Sometimes, heavier hitch mechanisms is required. In this case, the actual tow-bar and vehicle substructure will have to be reinforced to accommodate the extra load. Unfortunately there are limits to weight capacities and the extent of vehicle reinforcement possible. EZ-Drive will help you calculate.

To answer this correctly, one needs to understand what the role of SABS is and how certification is granted.

The short answer:

EZ-Drive currently have no local manufactured system certified, nor do we have 'MIB' certifications. However, all our imported systems already complies to UNCE and ECU directives or alike and is automatically adopted by the SANS as acceptable. EZ-Drive strives to participate actively in assuring the customer only the best peace of mind with our systems and installations.

Fortunately, the nature of most conversions and adaptations, does not necessarily require a vehicle to be re-homologated or re-certified since OEM changes is seldomly required. Contact us to find out how your project complies.

Better explained below:

  ♿   About SABS

  ♿   SABS Certification

  ♿   What gets Certified ?

  ♿   How does it work ?

Since many of our systems on offer is of different Suppliers, Certification details can be found in the "Product View" page, if applicable. Just search for the product you are interested in, and look for the "Certification" tab for details. If no Certifications are listed, then the Supplier likely have no Certification Documentation available.

By carefully selecting only the best quality systems around the globe, EZ-Drive provides maintainable solutions for practically every application.

Our expertise aim to create a seamless interface with OEM vehicle controls and mechanisms, ensuring trouble free installations, the first time, and looking great altogether!

Our locally manufactured systems promise quality in design, built, aesthetics and workmanship.

Let's devide the question in two, namely; 'system cost' and 'installation labour cost' and learn why in comparison, systems these days are much cheaper than before.

  ♿   System cost:

  ♿   Installation labour cost:

Absolutely NOT. Any vehicle can be adapted. There are however limits to the extent of the conversion, depending on the requirements of the customer. Apart from budget, some vehciles works better than others with different application objectives. It would not make sense to buy a sedan vehicle where you want to drive the vehicle seated in your wheelchair. We will then have to rebuild the whole vehicle's shell for that matter. A minibus will then be a better choice.

Sometimes compromises will have to be made. Example: you finally bought that sporty super car, but you might not be able to take your electric wheelchair along or transferring to seats might not be so comfortable.

However, it is important to shop for a vehilce model that have as much features possible already included in its design.

NO, NO, NO and No! Have a look at our 'products/wav' section for more info.

However, when doing so, please be sure that whatever systems the vehicle have fitted, is servicable in your area and that replacement parts can be easily obtained. Apart from system setup, be sure that your vehicle is in good mechanical condition or that you have inclusively calculated to get those sorted once the vehicle arrive.

YES and NO. This seems to be a matter of perception. Some might say that you are an easy target for the criminals because you cannot defend yourself like others can. Others might say that crooks would not know how to drive the vehicle when they see hand controls. Either way, you are right. According to statistics from previous victims, being alert is the ultimate precaution; being disabled or not, you are prone to be a victim. Not paying attention to your surroundings and not being alert when standing still at a red light, parking at parking lots or entering your house's driveway, will make you an easy target for criminals. Do not play with the radio or change the air control when you should focus on your surroundings. Even worse, DO NOT use your phone when driving/stopping!

Paying attention to your surroundings at all times will allow you to act in time when danger is arising/enclosing. This is South Africa and your own safety is your own priority!

Absolutely NOT. This can be the case if the cable actuation is not correctly aligned or when incorrectly installed.

Think about this... How many times have you replaced the cable of the bonnet catch mechanism? And the fuel refil lid/door? Probaly never.

Did you know that many vehicles changes it's gears by using control cables? That's right, your stick-shift uses cables to change gears connected to the gearbox. Even some automatic transmission vehicles's gear selection is actuated by cables.

So, one might say that these cables aren't used much and eventually will need servicing or replacing afterall. OK, You're right. Any moving part will always need servicing eventually.

What is important here, is that when correctly designed, installed and serviced, it does the job quite well.

Point closed!

Rumor has it: "When a frontal vehicle collusion exist, a vehicle that have a hydraulic lift installed at the rear door access entry, will result in the lift mechanism to come loose or fold over the wheelchair passenger anchored in front."

Within a DIY (do it yourself) environment, the myth might NOT be BUSTED afterall.

It is imperative to use reputable installers who understand that when bolting devices to vehicles, there are certain minimum specification standards applicable. Manufacturers of lifts also have certain installation specifications to adhere to (for the sake of warranty policies) and should not be ignored.

Hydraulic lifts is designed (according to international safety standards or alike) for the purpose to lift and lower wheelchair occupants in and out the vehicle, and designed specifcally so as to mount in any point of access, given a level floor is available and within permitable dimensions and weight distributions.

Adherance to safety regulations would pose the MYTH BUSTED.

The definition of "better" kind of depends on the perception.

Possible reasons why a Panel van could be "better":

  ♿   The driver might find it easier to maneuver a smaller vehicle.

  ♿   A smaller vehicle fits in my garage.

  ♿   There might be more personal space around the wheelchair user in a vehicle with all seats removed.

  ♿   The driver seat is lower as to transfer easier from a wheelchair.

Possible reasons why a Panel van might not be "better":

  ♿   The vehicle's structural design might need changeing. Re-homologation would be applicable.

  ♿   The vehicle cannot be re-converted without exponential cost involved.

  ♿   Selling specialized vehicles competes in a smaller market volume.

  ♿   Major components of the conversion setup cannot be moved to a next vehicle.

  ♿  

  ♿   Helpers have more difficulty to access and reach floor mounted wheelchair anchorages.

  ♿   The spare wheel (if applicable) is now inside the vehicle.

  ♿   Population of the 'parts service' list.

  ♿   Only rear door wheelchair access is posible.

Additional info:

  ♿  

  ♿   Parking bay space when entering the vehicle from the rear is by default usually too short.

  ♿   A wheelchair passenger can sit close to the driver in any vehicle with a flat floor.

  ♿   It is not required to have a PDP driving permit unless it is to be used commercially.

According to the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996 (RTA), OT's assessments is no prerequisite requirement in order to be licensed to drive. However, the safety of other road users is also your responsability and OT assements might be crucial when deciding to drive.

Assessment reports from professionals can however assist greatly in helping you to understand your limitations or in the event when 3rd party claims have to be submitted for funding.

Also see 'Medical, Insurance & OT's' within this FAQ's page, AND/OR the 'Reports' section in the 'Needs analysis & system setup planning' page.

According to the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996 (RTA), making use of driving schools is not compulsory. Needless to say, if you do not have an adapted vehicle yet, a driving school can close the gap.

However, it is recommended to have your own vehicle adapted first. This way, you can practice independantly and/or receive driving lessons with your own special vehicle.

Vehicles equipped with 'dual control pedals' is not a prerequisite for 'Vehicle Testing Centres' when conducting driver license tests. However, it is almost definite that driving instructors might feel safer using dual pedal controls, especially with a vehicle having unknown devices installed.

The RTA is an act, a form of measure by legislation, not an organization who can approve or endorse anything.

When specifications standards are the concern, the Act recognize specifications as stipulated within SANS specifications. SANS development in turn, may not infringe on any RTA regulations.

No, but it depends on your perceived definition of 'difficult'. We would rather replace the word 'difficult' with: "different" or "challenging" or "complex" or even "unknown".

If you have never driven before, then driving might be difficult because there are so many things to learn.

If you already have/had a drivers license, then getting used to the different controls is a matter of practice. Operating the vehicle in an emergency scenario requires you to become comfortable in controlling the vehicle adequitly and timely. If practicing after about 50km of travel still seems to be difficult, then your systems setup is probably not adequitely equipped.

Even if you drive the cheapest vehicle around, you are rich enough to adapt your car. Not everything is for everyone, but there are many affordable options available. Please contact us to find out more.

Be cautious when interacting on social media or groups w.r.t. the 'correct' info.

Connecting with people with similar interests is a great way of getting usefull information and tips. However, people sometimes make recommendations or suggestions derrived from their own experience or perceptions. Sharing these experiences is good and nescessary, BUT such experiences should not be taken as proven or fact. Always make sure for yourself in the end.

Throughout our website, one, some or all these terms might be used to describe a certain aspect or suject. Sometimes it is on purpose wrongly used. The terms used below is industry specific:

A vehicle conversion would be to change certain features of the veicle design itself which in turn becomes a different design in structure or layout. We often use the term 'vehicle conversion' beacause the vehicle is now converted to a driveable state for persons with disabilities or dificulties. In escense, this term aught to be incorrect if no actual vehicle design changes is made.

Adaptation devices is stand-alone products or systems that once installed in a vehicle, it would mean the vehicle is adapted to address difficulties pertaining accessing or driving the vehicle. An adapted car would be a standard car design which in turn have devices installed in such a manner to either make it accessible or driveable for persons with disabilities, BUT where no changes to the vehicle design is made.

WAV (wheelchair accessible vehicle) or DFWAV (drive from wheelchair accessible vehicle) are terms widely used in the industry and is probably derrived from the term 'wheelchair accessible building' whilst the definition of such seems obvious.

Direct symantic meaning of the phrase would invalidate the term used, taken into account that virtually all vehicles can be independantly accessed from a wheelchair.

The key aspect would rather then be to eliminate the need for a person to transfer from and to a wheelchair when accessing the vehicle.

Generally, these terms would refer to a vehicle like a Minibus where a wheelchair bound person can access the vehicle by means of a hydraulic lift or a ramp whilst remaining seated in the wheelchair. Furthermore, if the person in the wheelchair is also to be the driver, provisions are made so that the wheelchair can 'dock/anchor' under the steering wheel to allow independant driving with hand controls.

All the above mentioned is- or make use of actuators.

Actuators are mechanical devices that convert energy into motion and are critical in controlling and/or facilitating practically every mechanized process.

The 'Operator' control certain levers, buttons or devices within reach to attain a certain function desired, like braking a vehicle. By stepping on the brake pedal (actuator lever), the brake booster assist in applying a greater force on the brake discs (caliper actuator) to stop the vehicle easily.

In our industry, the working principal is the same, only that 'soft controls' is installed in a vehicle in order to control vehicle controls; much like an electric wheelchair is controlled by a small joystick lever.

To differentiate between the different working principals w.r.t adaptation devices, below is a short description. A more thorough explaination can be read here.

  ♿   Mechanical:

  ♿   Electronic or Electric:

  ♿   Hydraulic:

  ♿   Phneumatic:

We recommend reading the queston above.

Both 'Servo'- and 'Electric' clutch systems we offer is in effect the 'clutch booster' as often is heard. It should not be confused with a 'Brake Booster' as this is to help/assist in braking. In our industry, we do not use 'Clutch Boosters'

'Servo'- and 'Electric' clutch systems refer to the type of actuation used. Both are electronically controlled.

The 'servo-clutch' make use of a phneumatic actuator (that looks like a brake booster unit) to disengage the clutch of the vehicle automatically.

The 'electric-clutch' make use of an electric motor actuator to disengage the clutch of the vehicle automatically.

In our industry (not 'medically'), the definition of a disability would be the inability to operate driving controls or the inability to access a vehicle. After all, our primary objective is to enable you to access or drive a vehicle.