Wheelchair vans often look like a standard passenger van from the outside. but they are specially designed, constructed, modified or equipped to accommodate wheelchair users. Wheelchair vans allow handicapped persons and able-bodied individuals to travel together sitting at the same height and facing the same direction.
Wheelchair accessible vans include a system for lifting the wheelchair into the van and are designed so that the wheelchair essentially becomes part of the van once it's safely inside. This is made possible by adding a permanently installed ramp or lift mechanism and lowering the van's floor. The ramp or lift ease both entry and exit because the user isn't required to transfer from the wheelchair to the vehicle seating. The lowered floor puts the wheelchair user on the same level as the van's other passengers.
The lowered floor is most commonly seen in mini-vans. Full-size vans modified for wheelchair users are often equipped with a hydraulic wheelchair lift and a raised roof. Another common feature of wheelchair accessible vans is a modified vehicle suspension system that lowers the van to within a few inches of the ground. Once inside, all wheelchair vans feature tie-downs of various designs to hold the wheelchair securely during travel.
For a completely independent mobility solution, some vans have a driver "transfer" seat. This seat automatically moves back and swivels. This makes it possible for the wheelchair user to transfer into the driver's position.
Full-sized wheelchair vans can actually be quite luxurious. The raised roof has room for installation of flat-panel televisions, surround sound systems, and other entertainment options.
Toyota wheelchair vans have proven to be popular with wheelchair users. Several mobility van dealers offer the Toyota Sienna with a rear entry automatic ramp and a floor that has been lowered by ten inches. This provides space for two wheelchairs. The Toyota Sienna wheelchair van sold by Independent Mobility Systems features a 30-inch wide, right-side entry ramp that is stored beneath the vehicle's floor that deploys horizontally. Used Toyota wheelchair vans can be found for about $40,000.
Another way of modifying a standard passenger van so that it is wheelchair accessible is to perform a rear-entry conversion. Some wheelchair users prefer rear-entry wheelchair vans because they don't require any extra room on the side when parking. Compared to side-entry arrangements, rear-entry vans are easier because no maneuvering or rotations are required. Rear-entry mobility conversions also avoid altering the vehicle's chassis. Some believe that rear entry wheelchair vans are safer because of this.
Rear entry wheelchair vans can be operated manually or automatically. Manual versions have a spring-loaded aluminum ramp that can be unfolded once the vehicle's rear hatch is opened. Automatic models open the hatch, lower the van, and extend the ramp at the touch of a button.
Commercial wheelchair vans are available to transport wheelchair users, able-bodied passengers or both. Commercial vehicles are used in nursing homes, special schools, rehabilitation centers and taxis. Other uses for commercial wheelchair vans include medical transportation and non-critical ambulance services. Like other vans converted for mobility use, commercial vans have a lowered floor to provide wheelchair users with full visibility through the windows. They also have ramps or lifts to assist with loading and tie-downs inside the van to keep the wheelchair secured during travel.
All wheelchair accessible vans feature easy entry, comfortable seating, and plenty of headroom