A wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) is a vehicle purpose-built or factory-modified to allow a wheelchair user to travel safely as a passenger while remaining seated in their own wheelchair. Glam Groups, based in Campbellfield, Melbourne, specialises in used, Japan-sourced factory-fitted WAVs — Toyota and Nissan Welcab models that have been built for wheelchair access as part of the original manufacturing process, not modified after the fact.
What Makes a Vehicle Wheelchair Accessible?
A standard vehicle cannot safely or comfortably transport a wheelchair user who needs to remain in their chair. WAVs differ from standard vehicles in several key ways. They are fitted with a ramp or electronic hoist that allows the wheelchair to enter and exit the vehicle without the occupant needing to transfer to a standard seat. The floor height and interior dimensions are designed to accommodate a wheelchair and its user during travel. Approved restraint systems are fitted specifically for the wheelchair frame, in addition to a separate seatbelt for the occupant.
Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
The most common WAVs available in Australia through Glam Groups are people movers from Toyota and Nissan, all factory-fitted with wheelchair access as part of the Welcab or equivalent conversion program. See our full guide on the types of wheelchair accessible vehicles available in Australia.
Rear-Entry WAVs
Rear-entry WAVs allow the wheelchair to enter from the back of the vehicle via a fold-out ramp or electronic hoist. The Toyota HiAce 200 Series Welcab uses an electronic hoist rated to carry up to 250–300 kg, while the Toyota Noah, Voxy and Esquire 80 Series use a fold-out rear ramp with air suspension lowering.
Side-Entry Assist Seating
Some Welcab models also feature an optional Electric Hoist Chair — a powered seat installed in the front or middle row that lowers to ground level and lifts the occupant into the vehicle. This is designed for passengers with limited mobility who can transfer out of their wheelchair, rather than those who need to remain seated in their wheelchair during travel.
Benefits of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
For wheelchair users and their families, a WAV provides independence that a standard vehicle cannot. Key benefits include:
- Independence — the wheelchair user can travel without needing to transfer to a car seat, which can be difficult, painful or impossible for many users.
- Safety — factory-fitted restraint systems and tie-down points are engineered and tested by the manufacturer, providing a higher standard of security than aftermarket modifications.
- Reliability — Welcab vehicles are built to the same manufacturing standards as standard Toyota and Nissan models, with accessibility features integrated into the original design.
- Practicality — most Welcab people movers can carry standard passengers alongside the wheelchair user, making them suitable for family transport, community care, and NDIS-funded transport.
Factory-Fitted vs Aftermarket Conversions
Every used WAV in the Glam Groups range is a genuine factory-fitted Welcab or equivalent — built with wheelchair access as part of the original manufacturing process in Japan, not modified after purchase. Aftermarket conversions can vary significantly in quality, integration, and compliance. Factory-fitted vehicles are generally more reliable, better integrated, and widely preferred by NDIS providers and occupational therapists.
Choosing the Right WAV
Choosing the right WAV depends on several factors specific to the wheelchair user’s needs. See our full guide on how to choose a disability vehicle for more detail.
- The type of wheelchair — manual, powered, or scooter — affects which vehicle and access system is most suitable.
- Interior height and access width determine whether the wheelchair and user will fit comfortably inside.
- Ramp vs hoist — a ramp requires some physical assistance or a powered wheelchair; a hoist requires no manual effort.
- Passenger capacity — how many other people need to travel alongside the wheelchair user.
- Whether NDIS funding is being used — this affects which vehicle types and modifications are supported.
NDIS and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
Glam Groups is a registered NDIS provider. NDIS funding can support costs associated with WAV modifications and equipment in specific circumstances, though it does not directly fund the vehicle purchase itself. See our complete guide to NDIS wheelchair accessible vehicles for details on how funding works, what is and is not covered, and how to use your plan to contribute toward a WAV.
Browse Our Range
Glam Groups stocks a range of used wheelchair accessible vehicles in Melbourne, including Toyota HiAce, Noah, Voxy, Esquire, Alphard, Sienta and Ractis Welcab models, as well as the Nissan Serena — all factory-fitted and sourced from Japan. We also offer wheelchair accessible vehicle hire for short-term needs. Contact our team on (03) 9303 7252 or visit us at 21A Dennis Street, Campbellfield, Victoria.