Cruise Debuts Autonomous Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle

• By Laurie Watanabe
• Sep 26, 2023

Wheelchair riders could soon use a new mode of transportation, thanks to autonomous vehicle manufacturer Cruise.

In a Sept. 14 announcement, the manufacturer unveiled a wheelchair-accessible vehicle called the Cruise WAV, which could serve as a driver-less taxicab thanks to its has a built-in ramp with pop-up rails.

The Cruise WAV “kneels,” lowering itself to facilitate boarding and disembarking. Once the wheelchair is on board, it can be secured via tie-downs or can use Cruise’s adjustable-height docking system, designed in collaboration with Q’STRAINT. Accessible controls in the Cruise WAV enable wheelchair riders to call for assistance, operate the doors, or operate the ramp. Controls can also be used via the wheelchair rider’s mobile phone.

Cruise, the robotaxi division of General Motors (GM), collaborates with an Accessibility Council.

In social media announcements on Sept. 14, Cruise President Kyle Vogt said, “The transportation status quo is not only unsafe, it is inaccessible. Over 41 million Americans with disabilities deserve better transportation options. I’m excited to introduce the Cruise WAV, the world’s first self-driving, wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

“We have developed this vehicle in close partnership with GM and the disability community, including BraunAbility, Q’STRAINT, and members of our Cruise Accessibility Council, who provided feedback on the key components of its design, user experience, and securement systems.”

The Cruise WAV is expected to begin closed-course testing in October, with a pilot program expected in 2024.