Charging channel firm Kerbo Charge has designed an accessible cross-pavement product in consultation with Motability Operations.
The new product, Kerbo Glide, aims to ease the use of cross-pavement charging solutions for disabled electric vehicle (EV) drivers by being used one-handed, and requiring no bending over.
Advice from Motability Operations, the company that runs the Motability Scheme, highlighted the key challenges of cross-pavement solutions, included most products requiring users to bend or kneel; strength and dexterity through heavy or rigid components; and not allowing for use in a seated position – impacting wheelchair accessibility.
The Kerbo Glide aims to overcome these issues, and can now be pre-ordered and ships in December.
Michael Goulden, CEO and Co-founder:
“We’ve listened to Motability Operations and delivered a cable insertion accessory to make it easy for anyone to use our EV charging channel.
“The new device, which retails for £59, can be used one-handed, giving easy EV access to everyone. This is an extremely important, yet so simple, solution to allow those with disabilities ease of charging – even without off street parking.”
Sharon, a Motability Scheme customer who has tested the product:
“As an EV driver with a disability this solution is perfect for me, as it means I do not need to bend down to plug in my electric vehicle.
“As a Motability Scheme customer it’s great to see companies coming together to help make charging my EV as easy
as possible. I hope more and more people get to use this simple, yet so effective, cross-pavement solution.”
Jon Jenkins, Head of Innovation and EV Accessibility at Motability Operations, said:
“At Motability Operations, we’re committed to making sure the UK’s switch to electric vehicles protects the freedom and independence that the Motability Scheme provides, while ensuring no disabled person is left behind.
“Recent data from our EV Transition Tracker found that, among those who say they will not consider an EV for their next vehicle, 46% cite not being able to charge at home as a key reason for this.
“Cross-pavement products offer a potential solution to this, but unfortunately many are not yet accessible – excluding too many drivers from affordable home charging.
“That’s why we’ve been working directly with manufacturers to help shape designs that better meet the needs of all users.
“It’s brilliant to see Kerbo Charge respond to the challenges we raised and take meaningful steps toward cross-pavement products that are inclusive by design.”
Image from Kerbo Charge
