These awards celebrate the finest British engineering and manufacturing, highlighting companies and projects that drive progress and innovation. The Engineering Impact Award recognises engineering projects that have a significant impact on society and aim to address challenges that society faces.
eVITA has been shortlisted for its innovative design and engineering, which incorporates inclusive principles and directly addresses the needs of wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) users in the move to electric vehicles.
CALLUM engaged with Motability Scheme customers throughout the development process to create a vehicle concept that is truly accessible and user-centred.
Andrew Miller, CEO of Motability Operations, commented: “The Engineering Impact Award is a celebration of outstanding engineering achievements that demonstrate significant, positive impacts on society. Being shortlisted is a testament to the fantastic dedication and incredible ingenuity of our team and partners, who continually strive to make a meaningful difference.”
To make EVs more inclusive, we are keen to collaborate with automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and the wider automotive industry to share ideas and integrate design principles from the eVITA concept into the future of EVs.
The design of EVs today poses challenges for eWAV conversion and accessibility for wheelchair users. Without a solution, this would lead to customers in a wheelchair having to opt for larger vehicles than they need when switching to electric. eVITA serves as a proof of concept, demonstrating that it is possible to create accessible and stylish EVs that meet the needs of all drivers.
The winners of the Engineering and Manufacturing Awards will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on 4 September 2024.