Mazda Releases Redesigned AZ-Wagon i for Wheelchairs in Japan
By Zack Newmark
March 12, 2009 9:30 PM
Filed Under: Design, Japanese, Lifestyle, Mazda
People with disabilities are getting a new road option in Japan, courtesy of Mazda. The company has just released a redesigned version of the Mazda AZ-Wagon i.
Some of the features on the wagon include a lowered floor, and an easier-to-use retractable ramp, to give improved access to those in wheelchairs. Also making things a bit easier is the wider rear opening, meaning even the most cumbersome chairs can fit right in. Those in wheelchairs now get the benefit of a handrail on either side, and a three-point seatbelt. An anti-theft system also comes as standard.
The AZ-Wagon i is based on the new AZ-Wagon micro-mini launched domestically last September. The Mazda AZ-Wagon i will be priced at ¥1,497,000 ($15,531) as a three-seater, and ¥1,521,000 ($15,780) with optional folding rear fourth seat. The vehicle goes on sale today in Japan.
Press Release (Click to expand)
Mazda Releases Redesigned AZ-Wagon i in Japan
- New special needs model provides improved user-friendliness and greater peace of mind -
HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of its redesigned Mazda AZ-Wagon i, a special needs vehicle equipped with a sloping access ramp for wheelchairs. The new model is based on the fully redesigned AZ-Wagon micro-mini that was launched in Japan in September 2008. Sales commence today at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini, and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.
The new AZ-Wagon i has a wide opening at the rear and a spacious cabin with a high roof. Other enhancements designed for wheelchair users include a new three-point seatbelt and a handrail on both sides of the rear cabin, as standard equipment. Additionally, user-friendliness is also improved for caregivers by a sloping entry/exit ramp that is gentler than the previous model.
Main features of the all-new AZ-Wagon i
- New three-point seatbelt for wheelchair users (the previous model was equipped with a two-point seatbelt)
- A handrail on both sides of the rear cabin provides extra support and comes as standard equipment
- Easier wheelchair access due to the lower floor and gentler sloping ramp
- Anti-theft immobilizer fitted as standard equipment
Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the all-new AZ-Wagon i
| Model | Engine | Drive | Transmission | Seating capacity |
Price (yen) | |
| AZ-Wagon i | DOHC VVT | FWD | 4-speed AT | 3 | 1,497,000 | |
| 4 | 1,521,000 | |||||
| - | The prices include vehicle and accessories. The AZ-Wagon i is exempt from Japan’s consumption tax. |
| - | A separate recycling fee of 11,640 yen is necessary in addition to the manufacturer’s suggested prices listed above. |
| - | The four-seat version has a folding rear seat; the three-seat version has no rear seat. |
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