Efteling theme park in the Netherlands and Vekoma Rides, the Dutch roller coaster specialist, in collaboration with experts and representatives of the Dutch association de Zonnebloem, have developed an innovative concept to enhance inclusivity in theme parks, specifically designed for guests who use wheelchairs.
The concept features certified seat-on-wheels that can be securely fastened across various ride types. This enables guests in wheelchairs to enjoy the same experience alongside their group as much as possible.
Last year, Vekoma and Efteling created a shared vision and design principles for a sustainable future attraction. Currently, they are inviting suppliers, other parks, and industry partners to collaborate with them to further develop this concept.
Actively shaping inclusivity
Efteling and Vekoma unveiled the concept for the first time on 22 September during Sustainability Day at IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Anne-Mart Agerbeek, CEO of Vekoma Rides, says: “At Vekoma, we believe that technological innovation must go hand in hand with social responsibility. With the seat-on-wheels concept, we want to set a new standard for accessibility within the attractions industry.
"This is more than just a technical solution. It is an invitation to the entire sector to actively shape inclusivity.
Efteling - Vekoma scale model seat-on-wheels-concept
"We want to inspire and encourage suppliers, parks, and industry peers to contribute ideas and join in development. Because only together can we build a future where experiences are naturally accessible to everyone.”
“This concept fits seamlessly with our social sustainability ambition for 2030: ‘Everyone feels welcome, can participate, and feels part of Efteling,’” says Femke van Es, manager for society, communication & environment at Efteling.
“We see that in 28% of the groups visiting our park, at least one person has a disability. By working together, Efteling and Vekoma hope to make a real difference - and to invite others to join in, so that everyone can take their social responsibility.”
“The National Association de Zonnebloem believes that people with physical disabilities should be able to participate in society freely and as a matter of course. That is why we are very pleased with this collaboration, in which our participants were involved at an early stage in the development of this new concept,” adds spokesperson Alexander van Zijp on behalf of de Zonnebloem.
Also during IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, Vekoma Rides and Karls Erlebnis-Dorf announced the debut of two custom Family Boomerang coasters in summer 2026. These will be located at the German Karls Erlebnis-Dorf park in Döbeln, with the second location to be revealed soon.
Meanwhile, Efteling has recently announced that it is creating a new themed area and attraction around its Raveleijn show, which will also undergo a complete renewal. The Raveleijn show will be updated with a new storyline, theme, and special effects, with the main characters remaining in the performance.
