Increasing Accessibility for EV Use Through Technology

Posted by Mike Phipps on November 14, 2022

Photo by Michael Fousert on Unsplash

There are several reasons to enjoy electric vehicles (EVs). They are favourable to the environment, frequently cost less to maintain than conventional cars, and have the potential to lessen our reliance on harmful fossil fuels.

It is clear that drivers in the UK have a need for these cars. As of 2022, 137,498 brand-new electric vehicles had been sold. This demonstrates that 14% of the UK market for new cars is made up of electric vehicles (updated September 2022).

When it comes to EVs, there are a few additional factors to consider that might be hurdles for persons with disabilities. Fortunately, some of these barriers are being reduced.

Adaptive Alterations

EVs can be modified to make them safer and more straightforward for drivers with disabilities to use, just like traditional cars. Different drivers will benefit from particular accessible technologies depending on the sort of impairment they have. For example, hand controls can be installed for people with mobility problems in their legs, allowing them to control the speed of the vehicle without using their feet.

For drivers who might not be able to utilise steering wheels in a conventional manner, steering wheels can also be altered to make them easier to turn.

Before purchasing your new vehicle, ask your dealership about the variety of alternatives available since most EV vehicles may be modified in this way.

Upgraded Charging Methods

Photo by Maxim Hopman on Unsplash

Infrastructure for charging devices is another potential obstacle to accessibility. Although more and more public charging stations are available, they aren't always easy to locate or use. 

Technology is incredibly useful in situations like this. Today, you can find nearby charging stations using a number of applications and websites, which can also provide you with details on their availability and costs. You can even remotely start or stop your charge using some apps, so you don't have to worry about being present throughout the entire process.

For any drivers with disabilities, it's equally crucial that these public charging stations be completely accessible. To start, this might entail adjusting the units' height so that a person in a wheelchair can use them without any difficulty. Also crucial is that anyone with mobility challenges can manoeuvre the charging wires and that any directions or information displayed on the screen is legible.

Contemporary Features Built-in

Modern innovations incorporated into the newest electric vehicles on the market can significantly improve the driving experience for people with disabilities. For instance, many electric cars have hands-free phone and navigation systems, which can be quite helpful for drivers with disabilities who need to have their hands free for other activities.

Adaptive cruise control is a different kind of technology that can be useful for drivers with disabilities. This kind of technology employs sensors to track the movement and speed of other vehicles on the road, and it then modifies the vehicle's speed accordingly to lower the likelihood of accidents

Engage in the Electric Revolution

While electric vehicles undoubtedly have a ton of benefits for them, there are a few additional factors to take into account in terms of accessibility. However, these restrictions are gradually being removed owing to technological improvements. Therefore, if you're considering switching to an EV, don't let accessibility concerns stop you because the world of electric vehicles is becoming more inclusive day after day.

For more information, read the blog on AutoTrader. You can find it if you click here!