WagonR’s New Swivel Seat Makes Travel Easier for Seniors, Differently-Abled

A Step Towards Inclusive Mobility

In a landmark initiative to promote inclusive transportation, Maruti Suzuki India Limited has introduced a swivel seat option in its popular WagonR hatchback. Rolled out as a pilot project in 11 cities, the new feature is designed to help senior citizens and people with disabilities enter and exit the vehicle with ease, dignity and independence.

First-of-Its-Kind Feature in Mass-Market Segment

The swivel seat is the first such offering in India’s mass-market car segment. It rotates up to 180 degrees towards the door, allowing passengers to sit comfortably before the seat gently turns inward. This significantly reduces physical strain during ingress and egress, making everyday travel more accessible.

Developed with Indian Startup TRUE Assist

The innovative seat has been developed in collaboration with Bengaluru-based startup TRUEAssist Technology Private Limited. Importantly, the swivel seat maintains the original structure of the WagonR and can be retrofitted in existing models or installed in new cars within just an hour.

The component has been safety tested and certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and comes with a three-year warranty, ensuring both reliability and peace of mind for customers.

WagonR Chosen for Its Practical Design

Maruti Suzuki Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said the WagonR was the natural choice for this initiative, being the company’s highest-selling model. He noted that the project reflects Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to making mobility accessible to all.

The WagonR’s tallboy design, along with its generous headroom and legroom, further enhances the effectiveness of the swivel seat, making it a practical and user-friendly solution for inclusive travel.

Availability and Future Expansion

Currently, the swivel seat feature is available at more than 200 Maruti Suzuki Arena dealerships across the pilot cities. The company plans to expand availability to more locations based on customer feedback and demand.

Aligned with Global Sustainability Goals

This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 10, which focuses on reducing inequality. By setting a new benchmark for accessibility in the Indian automotive market, Maruti Suzuki has taken a significant step towards more inclusive and equitable mobility solutions.