How Hand Controls are Making Off-Roading Accessible for All
Ever considered taking one of your mobility challenged friends or colleagues on a 4wd adventure in your vehicle?
Anyone with a mobility issue together with their family or support team would really benefit from the experience. If they hold a current driving licence you may even invite them to drive some gentle off road terrain under your guidance if their mobility issue allows.
Even if they are unable to drive then they can still enjoy the experience of a 4wd adventure with you and your friends.
This content was developed by and owned by Paul Sinkinson, Xplorability owner. Paul is a 4wd Defensive Driver Training Consultant/Trainer and Programme Developer.
Everything is possible when you focus on ability rather than disability. Off-road driving can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of physical challenges, and the smiles and joy that come from such experiences are infectious. Whether they’re driving or riding along, your friends and loved ones will treasure the chance to be part of the adventure.
When planning a 4WD trip, consider choosing routes that offer spectacular views and accessible stop points where everyone can appreciate the beauty of nature. From forest trails to scenic overlooks, there are countless opportunities to make lasting memories together.
Go Adventure Together
Following on from my own and with me, a number of my 4wd colleague’s successful involvement with Land Rover UK over the past 17 Years and, more recently my own local team with a number of charitable organisations we have been able to provide 4wd Adventures and Challenges here in regions of the UK and France giving an opportunity for many who have mobility issues as a result of active service in the armed forces or other issues in civilian life.
Many have since purchased and adapted their own vehicles and now enjoy off-road voyages with their family unit.
Paul Sinkinson LRE Instructor/Host working with Landrover Experience and Phil Packer at Eastnor Castle UK for the Help for Heroes Adventure Day in August 2009
Comparison test for Land Rover Experience UK between the Land Rover Discovery 2 & Discovery 3 using Mobility Hand Controls.
This post is dedicated to a colleague and friend, Andrew Jeffrey BBC Producer who sadly passed away recently. Andrew was a mainstay in promoting 4wd for those with Mobility Issues
Mobility 4wd Challenges and Adventure for all can be achieved.
This Landrover Discovery is fitted with Push/Pull Hand Controls and Automatic Gearbox and has been used by many, many drivers with mobility issues.
It also has an easy access wheelchair ramp, shown here with one of my colleagues.
Did you know that hand control systems are easy to install and quite affordable? One of the popular systems is the Lynx System, used by Land Rover for their experiences with drivers facing mobility challenges. These systems can be installed in minutes, making it simple to transform a standard vehicle into one that’s accessible for drivers with disabilities.
Vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery, equipped with hand controls and wheelchair ramps, have empowered many to take on off-road challenges with confidence. Whether you’re leading the adventure or supporting someone on their journey, these small adjustments make a big difference.
The Lynx System
Mobility doesn’t have to limit adventure. With the right vehicle, modifications, and attitude, everyone can enjoy the thrill of off-roading. Whether it’s your friend’s first time driving with hand controls or their first 4WD adventure as a passenger, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
So, why not invite a friend, colleague, or family member to join you on your next off-road excursion? Together, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime—and redefine what’s possible on a 4WD journey.
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Copyright
This content was prepared for the Off-Road Discovery Website by Xplorability 4wd Training
The Content - All Photographs and Photographic Copyright and All other Rights other Reserved October 2017. S.W. France. This content may not be copied or reproduced without the written consent of Paul Sinkinson – Xplorability Training.
For Use Only in 4wd and Light Vehicle Driver Training.
Not for Re-Publication, Distribution or use outside the Xplorability Training Programme