A Wheelchair Accessible Electric Minivan. New eVITA Concept by Callum and Motability

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Callum and Motability have teamed up to design a next-generation electric minibus with wheelchair users in mind

UK-based company Motability Operations and design studio Callum have revealed the eVITA concept, an all-electric minibus designed to support the mobility of wheelchair users.

eVITA was designed and developed by Callum with input from Motability Operations' customer clinics. Designed as a next-generation electric wheelchair accessible vehicle (eWAV) concept, eVITA addresses the most common issues with EV conversions, including limited interior height due to floor-mounted batteries, accessibility and practicality.

The eVITA has a similar footprint to the Citroen Berlingo, measuring 4,520 mm (178 in) long, 1,908 mm (75.1 in) wide and 1,800 mm (70.9 in) high, with a wheelbase of 2,980 mm (117.3 in). The exterior design is quite modern, adopting a short hood, a large greenhouse and very short overhangs.

The highlight of the concept is the split tailgate with integrated low-angle ramp that provides easy access from the rear. This is joined by four more doors on the sides, two traditional and two sliding. When the vehicle is parked, LED puddle lights highlight the area where the ramp will be located at the rear to alert other drivers.

The repackaged battery is placed in a low position behind the first row of seats, ensuring that the floor is completely level so that the wheelchair can move freely. Additionally, the hatchback-style ride height of 160 mm (6.3 inches) and lower seating position means the wheelchair user sits at a similar height to other passengers.

The 50 kWh battery offers an estimated range of approximately 200 miles (322 km) and can supplement energy from dual charging ports, one at the rear and the other at the front. Another engineering focus was the highly damped rear suspension, which offers a supple ride and predictable handling with minimal body roll thanks to its low center of gravity. Finally, the engineering team used lightweight materials whenever possible; thus, the EV was compatible with the high payload requirements of onboard equipment.

The wheelchair user also has access to the infotainment screen, heating and air conditioning controls, as well as a customizable "usage bar." The latter has charging ports, hooks for hanging clothes or bags, cup holders and storage compartments. Additionally, the single rear passenger seat can be folded down and turned into a tray with additional options for charging electronic devices. Finally, the interior side panels have plenty of storage space to make up for the lack of luggage.

The eVITA's dashboard appears to be shared with its Citroen Berlingo, Opel Combo Life, Peugeot Rifter and Toyota ProAce City Verso siblings, suggesting that the concept is based on a modified version of the EMP2 architecture.

Although eVITA is not intended for production, it points the way for major automakers to improve the design of future electric vehicles to make them more accessible to wheelchair users.

Source: https://www.carscoops.com/2024/03/cal...