Volkswagen Signs Race Car Driver to Introduce Inclusive Driver Access Program for Disabled Drivers

It was a bit mixed a century ago, but before long, cars and trucks standardized their controls, using both arms and legs. Both hands shared steering duties, allowing each to shift gears, use turn signals, and operate other controls. The right foot handled acceleration and braking, while the now mostly unused left foot was responsible for the clutch, high and low beams, and, when the journey was over, engaging the parking brake. However, nothing is set in stone. As motorcyclists will tell you, they still steer with their arms, but many responsibilities are reversed, with hands controlling acceleration, the clutch, and the front brake, while shifting gears and operating the rear brake with their feet.  

If someone is disabled, it’s possible to reroute basic controls to functioning limbs to enable driving. Therefore, Bud Brown Volkswagen is proud to introduce VW’s new Driver Access initiative aimed at helping the disabled get behind the wheel. While we often emphasize how your vehicle can enhance your life, nothing compares to the significance of being able to drive. 

Volkswagen’s Driver Access program enables eligible customers to receive up to $1,000 in reimbursement for the purchase and installation of eligible adaptive equipment on both new and Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Volkswagen models. The program is available to eligible Volkswagen customers with documented physical disabilities. 

Volkswagen couldn’t have chosen a better program ambassador to highlight the initiative. Torsten Gross has been a C6 quadriplegic since a spinal cord injury at age 15 in a car accident. He has some movement in his right hand and has found ways to scuba dive, participate in marathons, and race cars. 

Not to be deterred, he pursued a career in marketing strategy. His car racing journey began with a gift from his wife: a track day at Lime Rock racetrack, near Gross’s home. Inspired by that experience (track days will do that), he soon was driving a Porsche GT4 Cayman Clubsport modified with hand controls. He has competed in international GT, SCCA, and the World Racing League, earning multiple podium finishes.  

“As someone who’s experienced both the challenges and the triumphs of adaptive driving, I’m honored to join VW in a mission to help others find their way forward,” said Torsten Gross. “Every time I get behind the wheel, whether it’s my race car or my street car, I’m reminded that possibilities are endless and through the Driver Access program, we’re opening that sense of freedom and confidence to even more Volkswagen drivers.” 

Gross will be Volkswagen’s Driver Access brand ambassador, bringing his unique energy and purpose-driven voice to various initiatives that support people with disabilities. He will advise on product accessibility, speak at public events and industry forums, and serve as a featured internal speaker within Volkswagen Group’s workforce. As part of the program, Volkswagen has provided Gross with a 2025 GTI that has been adapted to meet his driving needs. 

“Torsten’s story is a powerful reminder that accessibility and performance can go hand in hand,” said Rachael Zaluzec, SVP of Marketing & Customer Experience for Volkswagen of America. “His determination and passion make him the perfect partner as we at Volkswagen work to make our vehicles—and the road—a more inclusive space.” 

The Driver Access program aligns with the Volkswagen Inclusive Environment Workforce (VIEW) and Volkswagen of America’s Employee Resource Group (ERG), which focuses on disability inclusion and equity in the workplace and beyond.  

It should never be forgotten that Volkswagen means “people’s car” and that includes all people—if there is some means by which they can drive.  If you know someone who could benefit from this program, have him or her inquire with Bud Brown Volkswagen about the details and how to get on the road in the Volkswagen model that’s most suitable. No matter what, there is a Volkswagen model that suits you best. Visit Bud Brown Volkswagen to find it.