Vehicle conversion specialist secures funding for R&D drive

Sirus Automotive, which converts vehicles for wheelchair use, has received a £500,000 refinance package to support its research and development programme as it sets its sights on international expansion.

The business, established in 2004 has supported over 15,000 drivers and passengers to overcome every-day mobility issues by converting and adapting vehicles.

Its compact designs are built for wheelchair users driving from a wheelchair or travelling upfront as a passenger, as well as offering an adaptations service for customers with standard cars.

Sirus will use the funding from HSBC UK to drive forward its new R&D programme, including the expansion of its operations in Wednesbury where the business has built additional office space to accommodate its expanding team.

Sirus has also implemented a new CRM system to service its fast-growing customer base.

In the last 12 months, Sirus has launched a new conversion based on the Ford Grand Tourneo Connect – an innovative WAV designed for wheelchair users to drive or travel upfront as a passenger.

Since launching the Ford, the business has set up new distribution contracts in Europe and New Zealand.

Simon Pearson, managing director, Sirus Automotive, said: “We have a dedicated R&D team that takes a fresh approach to vehicle conversions. Our ethos is to design innovative Upfront WAVs with premium quality, backed up by industry-leading customer service. This dedication allows our customers to experience the very best in innovative vehicle designs. We are passionate about our continual new product development programme, which aims to meet our customers’ every-day mobility needs. Thanks to our relationship manager at HSBC UK, Alex Richards, we will be able to continue on our journey, including our expansion plans in Europe and New Zealand.”

Stephen Peart, area director for business banking in the Black Country, HSBC UK, said:  “HSBC UK is actively supporting UK businesses by connecting them to international opportunities. The vehicle mobility market is growing rapidly and Sirus has proved to be at the forefront of innovative designs and solutions for drivers and passengers who are affected by a disability. Due to its success in the UK, the business has won distribution contracts for Europe and New Zealand. This is an exciting time for the Sirus team and we wish them the best for the future.”