INTERVIEW
Jonathan Jenkins serves as the Head of Innovation at Motability Operations , a role he transitioned into in early 2022 after initially joining the company in the finance department seven years ago . Since assuming his current position , he has assembled a team of specialists dedicated to supporting customers in shifting to EVs .
Motability Operations oversees the Motability Scheme , which offers individuals receiving qualifying disability allowances the opportunity to choose affordable and accessible vehicles with a customer base of 760,000 . With a deep understanding of its customers ’ needs , Motability Operations informs industry and national strategies as well as advocates for inclusive mobility . The company recently introduced eVITA , an electric wheelchair-accessible vehicle ( UAV ) concept . The eVITA was developed in collaboration with CALLUM , an engineering consultancy with a highly experienced engineering team with diverse skills .
WHAT ’ S THE STORY BEHIND THE WHEELCHAIR- ACCESSIBLE PROTOTYPE ?
The eVITA concept aims to demonstrate to the automotive industry the feasibility of inclusive design and engineering . It showcases that it can produce an appealing solution for passenger electric wheelchair-accessible vehicle ( eWAV ) users and support their transition to eWAVs . The project seeks to initiate discussions on how the industry can help wheelchair users , ensuring everyone can transition to EVs .
Industry collaboration is crucial for EV transition . Motability Operations has extensive knowledge and experience regarding wheelchair users ’ requirements and we aim to work with original equipment manufacturers ( OEMs ), converters and adaptors to share this
34 September 2024