Waev has introduced the GEM Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), a fully enclosed, low-speed electric vehicle (LSV) compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The model is designed for localized transport in settings such as campuses, hospitality properties, municipalities, and medical or assisted living facilities.

Accessibility Features

Developed in partnership with Driverge Vehicle Innovations, the GEM WAV includes a 36-inch ramp rated for 800 pounds, usable from curb or road height. The ramp can be lifted with one hand and locks in place for transport. A 56-inch door height and center-opening double doors allow wheelchair access.

Inside, a smart floor system enables rapid reconfiguration of seating, ramp, and restraints, with wheelchair securement taking under three minutes.

When not used for wheelchair transport, the vehicle can hold up to six passengers. Additional seating can be installed in minutes, and a flip-up third row provides flexibility for cargo or passengers.

Performance and Comfort

The LSV is street-legal on roads with speed limits up to 35 mph and has a top speed of 25 mph. Features include a long wheelbase, six inches of suspension travel, refined acceleration, hard doors, in-cab heat, and windshield defrost. 

The electric drivetrain eliminates emissions during loading and unloading and operates quietly.

Fleet Applications

The GEM WAV is suited for paratransit, non-emergency medical transport, nursing homes, and assisted living shuttles. 

Waev says it can replace larger, higher-emission vehicles in short-range operations. 

Charging options include standard 110V outlets and public charging stations. Operating costs average about $0.03 per mile, with no battery maintenance or fluid changes.

Industry Collaboration

“The GEM WAV brings the best of low-speed mobility to more customers, without compromising accessibility or safety,” said Keith Simon, CEO of Waev.

Mark Minatel, chief production officer at Driverge, added, “This is a purpose-built, ADA-compliant vehicle designed to better serve diverse communities.”

More information is available on their website.