[Definitive Guide] Top 4 Recommended Manual Driving Device Manufacturers for a Comfortable Driving Experience!

Depending on where you live, some people may find it essential to have a car as a means of transportation.

Especially for wheelchair users, having a car can significantly enhance mobility, which is not hard to imagine.

However, driving a regular car typically requires operating the accelerator and brake with your feet.

So, what can be done for those with disabilities or wheelchair users who have difficulty using their feet? The answer lies in the use of "hand controls" that do not require foot operation.

This article will introduce what hand controls can do, recommend some hand controls, and discuss things to watch out for when purchasing them.

1. Why Are Hand Controls Necessary?

Hand controls are devices installed in regular cars that allow foot-operated tasks to be performed by hand. This enables individuals with limited mobility to drive a car.

Even in today's world where the term "barrier-free" is widely used, it doesn't necessarily mean that wheelchair users can move smoothly everywhere.

Public transportation like trains and buses may be inaccessible due to the need for assistance or overcrowding, and sometimes advance notice is required to board.

Weather conditions can also affect mobility. Operating a wheelchair while holding an umbrella and carrying bags in the rain is challenging, and snow can make it difficult to move.

Driving a car with hand controls can alleviate these difficulties, allowing you to travel freely whenever and wherever you like.

Whether you need to go somewhere important or simply want to enjoy a drive with friends or family, hand controls play a crucial role in creating a society without mobility disparities.

Let's introduce some hand controls that contribute to this vision.

2. Recommended Hand Controls!

2-1. Hand Controls by Nico Drive Co., Ltd.

When converting a regular car to be wheelchair accessible, you might think it requires expensive modifications.

The first product we'll introduce is a "retrofit" hand control that challenges this notion.

Nico Drive Co., Ltd. offers "Hand Control," which can be installed and operated without modifying the car itself.

Since no car modifications are needed, the cost can be kept to less than half compared to specially modified vehicles, and those with a disability certificate can also apply for subsidies. This means less waiting time for modifications and less inconvenience in mobility.

Additionally, it can be used not only by those with disabilities but also by those who temporarily find it difficult to drive due to an injury. It can be installed on rental cars or loaner vehicles, not just your own car.

It's also worth noting that it can be installed on about 90% of cars, making it compatible with a wide range of models.

You can even try it out before purchasing by covering the round-trip shipping costs, so that's an option worth considering.

Reference: Product Details - [Nico Drive] Hand Control Device｜Nico Drive Co., Ltd.

2-2. Hand Controls by Italy's KIVI - CT08

There are several types of hand controls, which can be broadly categorized into three types: "column type," "floor type," and "ring type."

The CT08 hand control by Italy's KIVI falls into the "column type" category.

The "column type" is installed under the steering wheel, allowing for more foot space. The main advantage is ease of entry and exit and avoiding cramped spaces.

Pulling the grip installed horizontally under the steering wheel activates the accelerator, while pushing it activates the brake.

You can choose the grip shape according to your preference, ease of operation, and grip strength.

It allows for switching between manual and normal driving modes, making it a safe hand control to share with family members.

Reference: KIVI Hand Control CT08 Shiga Prefecture Omiya｜Omiya Co., Ltd.

2-3. Hand Controls by Mikuni Life & Auto Co., Ltd.

Mikuni Life & Auto Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of welfare vehicle conversions. Since its founding in 1973, the company has been developing, manufacturing, and installing automotive driving devices for people with disabilities with the desire to "bring the joy of driving to as many people as possible".

The company holds about 60% of the domestic market share for vehicle operation parts for people with disabilities, supporting the driving of many individuals with disabilities.

The hand control device, AP Drive, by Mikuni Life & Auto Co., Ltd., allows for the operation of the accelerator and brake by moving a manual lever back and forth.

A notable feature is the wide range of grip shapes available. In addition to standard grips, there are series that can be customized to meet individual preferences.

This is great for those who prioritize fit or have weaker grip strength, as they can customize the shape to suit their needs.

Additionally, options such as turn signal switches, light up/down switches, and hazard switches can be added to the lever. This allows for the use of various functions with minimal hand movement.

Reference: AP Hand Control Device AP Drive｜Mikuni Life & Auto Co., Ltd.

2-4. Hand Controls by Honda

Honda, a major domestic automobile manufacturer, offers the FIT "Honda Techmatic System."

This system can be installed on the FIT e:HEV and gasoline models, with the "Manual Driving Assist Device " for those with lower limb disabilities, allowing operation with the left hand only, and the "Left Foot Accelerator Pedal " for those with right foot disabilities.

The "Manual Driving Assist Device " features a control grip that allows for accelerator and brake operation with the left hand only, and a steering knob that enables steering with the right hand only.

The "Left Foot Accelerator Pedal " is a system that allows for brake and accelerator operation with the left foot only.

When using the left foot for accelerator operation, the right pedal is fixed to prevent accidental operation, but it can be switched to the right foot accelerator pedal for others to drive.

The ability to choose a device that suits your physical condition is a significant advantage.

Reference: Welfare Vehicles｜Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

3. Are Hand Controls Eligible for Subsidies?

When retrofitting existing vehicles with hand controls or purchasing vehicles equipped with hand controls, cost is a concern.

Depending on your municipality, subsidies may be available for purchasing hand controls and modifying vehicles.

Those who hold a first or second-degree disability certificate and already own a vehicle they can use or plan to replace a vehicle they can drive manually are often eligible to apply.

Reference: Subsidy Application Process｜Nico Drive Co., Ltd.

However, the application requirements and subsidy amounts vary by municipality, so here are some examples.

Requirements for Receiving Modification Subsidy
・Possess a physical disability certificate and fall under the first or second degree for upper limbs, lower limbs, or trunk.
・The previous year's taxable income does not exceed the income limit for special disability allowances.
・Reside in Osaka City and be registered in the Basic Resident Register.
・Possess a driver's license and intend to modify your vehicle to meet those conditions.
・The modified vehicle is used for commuting or during employment.

Subsidy Amount
・One vehicle per person with a disability, covering up to half of the required expenses, with a limit of 100,000 yen.

Reference: Osaka City Guidelines for Subsidies for Vehicle Modifications for People with Disabilities｜Osaka City

・Apply before ordering vehicle modifications.
・The subsidy amount is the cost of modifications, with a limit of 100,000 yen.
・Income restrictions apply.
・Required documents for the procedure
Before ordering: Physical disability certificate, estimate from the modification company,
Modification area diagram
After modification: Detailed invoice of modification costs, copy of vehicle inspection certificate, seal

Reference: Subsidy for Vehicle Modification Costs for People with Disabilities｜Sendai City

The above are merely examples, so those considering subsidy applications should contact the disability welfare department of their local municipality.

For those who "do not yet own a car but wish to purchase one," the Social Welfare Council of your municipality may offer a Living Welfare Fund Loan System.

This system provides loans for purchasing welfare equipment, renovating homes for barrier-free access, and subsidizing the purchase of vehicles for households with disabilities.

While it is a loan and requires repayment, if you have a guarantor, you can borrow money interest-free.

Consulting with the Social Welfare Council in your area is highly recommended.

Reference: Living Welfare Fund Loan Conditions｜Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare

4. Things to Know Before Purchasing Hand Controls

4-1. Be Cautious When Buying Used

Hand controls greatly assist the mobility of people with disabilities or limited mobility, but some may wonder, "Is there a cheaper used option available?"

However, caution is necessary when purchasing used items because hand controls may be customized for individual users.

Due to safety concerns, some places may refuse to install used hand controls.

Even if the price is low, it will be a waste if it can't be installed. When considering a purchase, consult thoroughly with the installation factory and make a careful decision.

4-2. Don't Forget to Inspect Auxiliary Devices

Regular inspections are essential to ensure safety. It's reassuring to check the costs involved in these inspections at the time of purchase.

Additionally, self-modifications or modifications done by inexperienced shops may result in failing vehicle inspections. Hand controls are important vehicle components, so maintenance is crucial for long-term safe use.

5. In Conclusion

In a society where barrier-free access is incomplete, hand controls may be the means by which individuals can take control and achieve barrier-free mobility without waiting for someone else to remove barriers.

While this article introduced retrofit and conversion options, there are other hand controls available.

For new cars, major domestic automobile manufacturers also offer vehicles equipped with hand controls.

Nowadays, you can watch videos on YouTube of people using wheelchairs operating hand controls, and it's possible to rent and test the feel.

Consider your budget and find the perfect companion for a comfortable drive.

Ayumi also has articles introducing cars equipped with hand controls, so if you're interested, please check out the articles below.

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