New Vehicle Adaptation Guidelines for disabled drivers released

The FIA’s Disability and Accessibility Commission has released the latest Vehicle Adaptation Guidelines to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).

The Guidelines provide general guidance, information and illustrative graphics regarding the adaptation of motor sport vehicles for use by disabled drivers.

The Guidelines build on the lessons learned from all members of the Commission,  including the  FIA  Adaptations  Working  Group,  which has collaborated with the FIA Safety and Technical Departments to facilitate safe access to racing for mobility-impaired competitors.

Nathalie McGloin, the FIA Disability and Accessibility Commission President, a pioneer in vehicle adaptation for disabled drivers, said the Commission had made great strides in disabled motorsport in recent years, particularly in junior categories.

“One area we have made huge progress with is disabled karting. We are very lucky to have Fabio Visentin on the DAA Commission who has a wealth of experience competing in karting as a disabled driver and his passion for this sport is infectious.

“He has competed in the Handikart Championship, an all-disabled karting event hosted by FFSA, for many years and wants to help grow the event. He has been instrumental in helping shape new legislation and guidance for disabled karters and with his help, we have established the foundations to grow disabled karting globally.

“New legislation, new equipment and a new section to the Adaptation Guidelines specifically on karting adaptations are the building blocks to more disabled people joining our sport.” 

The Adaptation Guidelines also features a section on club racing conversions which will be a useful tool for both ASNs and novice disabled racing drivers looking to enter the sport.

“The landscape of motorsport is changing for disabled people and I can’t wait to see numbers of disabled people involved in our sport grow,” Nathalie adds.

As part of an awareness programme around disabled motorsport, the FIA has produced a video featuring Fabio Visentin. You can view a teaser for the video here.

To view the FIA Vehicle Adaptation Guidelines, click here