Driving towards independence: customized vehicle solution for Kristina Vogel

20.05.2025

Kristina Vogel, two-time Olympic gold medalist and 17-time world champion in track cycling, experienced a major turning point in 2018 when a training accident left her with a spinal cord injury. Since then, she has been using a wheelchair – and finding new ways to pursue mobility and freedom. Now, with a vehicle adapted by PARAVAN and Škoda Germany, she continues her path toward greater autonomy.

Kristina Vogel sits in a wheelchair next to the back of her black car; Coypright: Škoda/Dammanworks

Kristina Vogel in front of her customized Škoda Superb – equipped by PARAVAN for accessible driving.

"You always build bridges in life," Vogel reflects. "I have a problem and a solution, and I build a bridge in my head to connect the two. How do I get up? How do I drive a car?"

The vehicle, a Škoda Superb Combi, features a number of technical modifications tailored to Vogel’s needs. These include:

Hand control for acceleration and braking

Integrated multifunction switch for indicators, lights, hazard warning lights, wipers, and horn

Steering wheel knob for easier handling

Electric tailgate and auxiliary heating

Central functions accessible at the push of a button

Vogel loads her wheelchair into the passenger seat on her own, demonstrating the practicality and independence such modifications can provide.

"Driving with a hand throttle is a bit like driving a motorboat," she says smiling. "When I push the handle down, I accelerate – when I push it forward, I brake."

From top athlete to advocate for inclusion

Kristina Vogel’s hands on an installed hand control; Copyright: Skoda/Dammanworks

Kristina Vogel steers her vehicle using manual controls for the gas and brake pedals, with all major auxiliary functions controlled by a multifunction switch.

Vogel’s accident may have altered the course of her life, but not her drive. After completing training at the German Olympic Sports Federation’s coaching academy, she now works as a trainer for the German Federal Police. In addition, she serves as a TV analyst for major events like the Olympic Games and regularly speaks out on disability rights and inclusion.

"I have to say that my life changed 180 degrees from one moment to the next – if that's even enough," she says. "One second I'm the best cyclist in the world, and the next I'm like a little broken bird, asking myself: how can I live in a wheelchair?"

A vehicle full of meaning

The new vehicle doesn’t just support Vogel’s daily life – it also carries emotional significance. On the day of the handover, she drove it to Frankfurt for the "Ball des Sports", hosted by Deutsche Sporthilfe. Another major event is already planned: "I'm getting married this year. Then this will be my wedding car," she shares.

A role model on and off the road

Kristina Vogel is an example of how mobility solutions tailored to individual needs can enhance not only freedom of movement but also quality of life. Her story stands as a reminder that people with disabilities deserve equal access to mobility, inclusion, and participation – whether in daily life, professional contexts, or sport.

REHACARE.com; Source: PARAVAN GmbH

More about PARAVAN GmbH at: www.paravan.com