The Kenguru is the world's first electric vehicle designed for drivers in wheelchairs and the compact vehicle accommodates a single wheelchair user. Unlike many accessible transportation solutions that open from the side, this one lets wheelchair users press a button to lift the rear door and roll straight into position.
In place of steering wheels and pedals, the EV has handlebars, acceleration and brake buttons, as directional controls. There's also a locking mechanism so that drivers in wheelchairs are kept secure while on the road. The brightly colored car is incredibly lightweight; in fact, it falls under the electric scooter category, so that the Kenguru doesn't even need a driver's license to be operated. In terms of speed, the vehicle is capable of reaching up to 28 mph.
Wheelchair Accessible EVs
The Kenguru is an Electric Vehicle Designed for Drivers in Wheelchairs
Trend Themes
1. Accessible Evs - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in designing and producing more adaptable electric vehicles for differently-abled users.
2. Compact Evs - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in designing and producing compact and lightweight electric vehicles that don't require a driver's license to operate.
3. Handlebar Controls - Opportunity for disruptive innovation in designing and producing electric vehicles with handlebar controls instead of traditional steering wheels for improved accessibility and ease of use.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Automakers can leverage the opportunity to develop and produce more accessible and user-friendly electric vehicles that cater to the needs of differently-abled drivers.
2. Disability Services - There is an opportunity for the disability services industry to expand and develop transportation programs built around electric vehicles designed for differently-abled individuals.
3. Sustainable Transportation - The trend towards more sustainable transportation options can be accelerated with the development and adoption of more lightweight and compact electric vehicles like Kenguru.