In a significant leap toward accessible and sustainable mobility, Waev Inc. has launched the GEM Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) — the first fully enclosed low-speed electric vehicle (LSV) designed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. Developed in collaboration with Driverge Vehicle Innovations, the GEM WAV is poised to revolutionize localized transport for individuals with mobility needs.
A New Era for Electric Accessibility
The GEM WAV is engineered to provide a seamless blend of safety, accessibility, and eco-conscious transport. With a 36-inch ramp supporting up to 800 lbs, 56-inch tall door height, and center-opening double doors, the vehicle ensures easy and dignified entry for wheelchair users. The smart floor system allows quick reconfiguration for seating, ramp positioning, and restraint points—transforming the vehicle from wheelchair-ready to a six-seater configuration within minutes.
Purpose-Built for Community Mobility
Waev’s latest innovation is tailored for environments like college campuses, medical facilities, hospitality venues, and city communities, where low-speed, short-range electric transport is ideal. Legal on roads up to 35 mph, the GEM WAV offers a quiet 25 mph ride, enhanced with 360-degree visibility, zero emissions, and in-cabin comfort features such as hard doors, heater, and windshield defrost system.
A Cost-Effective and Green Fleet Solution
For fleet operators in paratransit, assisted living, and non-emergency medical transport, GEM WAV presents a low-maintenance, high-efficiency alternative to traditional large, fuel-powered shuttles. It operates at just $0.03 per mile, can charge via standard 110V outlets, and eliminates the need for fluid changes or battery maintenance—cutting both emissions and operational costs.
The GEM WAV brings the best of LSV mobility to even more customers, both riders and fleet operators. We’ve engineered an efficient, eco-friendly solution that never compromises on accessibility or safety,” said Keith Simon, CEO of Waev Inc.
A Collaboration for Inclusion
Mark Minatel, Chief Production Officer at Driverge, emphasized, “The GEM WAV is a great example of what’s possible when accessibility and electric mobility come together in a purpose-built platform. These vehicles help shape new solutions that better serve the needs of diverse communities.”
