MV-1 Mobility Vans

The AM General auto assembly plant in Mishawaka, Indiana is where they used to build Hummer H2s. Now, its workers are making something a little less ... controversial. It's a van called the MV-1, MV standing for "Mobility Vehicle," and it's designed specifically for wheelchair-using passengers. Its designers claim that it is better suited to the handicapped than converted conventional vans, and the first factory-built model rolled off the assembly line yesterday.

A product of Miami's Vehicle Production Group, the MV-1 has a large 56 x 36-inch (142 x 91 cm) side door, and a 1,200 pound (544 kg)-capacity deployable ramp that stows under the floor when not in use. It can accommodate two wheelchair-using passengers, or one wheelchair and five additional traditionally-seated occupants, if the optional jump seat is used. Floor tracks are used to secure wheelchairs and scooters. The non-handicapped driver sits behind the wheel in a regular-style seat - perhaps future versions could allow wheelchair users to also drive, using something like RUVID's hand control device?

The vehicle is based around a body-on-frame configuration, and is powered by a Ford 4.6L 2V EFI V8 engine with an electronic four-speed automatic transmission. For the energy and/or environmentally-conscious, however, a factory-installed Compressed Natural Gas fuel system is also available. Mobility vans with the CNG system should have a driving range of approximately 290 miles (466.7 km).

The MV-1 proves you can be more mobile and more environmentally friendly. It is the only vehicle in its class with an available OEM engineered and assembled Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling system option. Because it's factory-installed, the MV-1 wheelchair vans with CNG option gives you the same durability, reliability and quality that everyone demands from gasoline-powered vehicles. And, since natural gas is primarily a domestic resource, the CNG MV-1, with an estimated 290-mile range, is good for the environment and good for America. Now everyone can breathe easier. CNG features:

• Unique CNG fueling system option designed and factory-installed, not an aftermarket conversion.
• Estimated 290-mile CNG range (which includes a 40-mile low level indicator).
• Three Type-3 CNG tanks integrated seamlessly into the vehicle design and factory-installed.
• Best-in-class luggage capacity (29.1 cubic feet).
• 21.1 Gasoline Gallon Equivalent (GGE).

For your protection, safety features are integrated throughout the MV-1. Starting with the anti-slip surface which covers the ramp and interior floor to give wheelchairs and scooters increased grip. While on the road, the MV-1 has Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to keep your ride steady. With passive and active safety features, it offers unprecedented peace of mind for mobility vehicle passengers and drivers. The MV-1 meets all applicable U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS).

MV- 1 wheelchair vans Warranty refers to:
• Bumper to Bumper - 3 years / 36,000 miles
• Powertrain - 5 years / 75,000 miles
• Ramp - 5 years / 75,000 miles
• Corrosion Protection - 5 years / 100,000 miles.
MV-1 Base Model: Standard Features
Power and Performance
• Ford 4.6L 2V EFI V8 Engine.
• Ford Electronic 4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive.
• Rear Wheel Drive with 3.45 Axle Ratios.
• 24-Gallon Gasoline Tank (est. 350-mile range).
• 17-Inch Steel Wheels with Center Wheel Cover.
Accessibility (meets ADA/CSA guidelines)
• Anti-Slip Floor Surface.
• Q-Straint® Wheelchair Restraint Track System.
• Manually Operated Ramp.
• Anti-Slip Ramp Surface.
• 4.1:1 Slope.
• Ramp Lighting.
• Multiple Grab Handles.

Better Life Mobility from San Diego is dealer and distributor for MV-1 wheelchair vans . Visit Better Life Mobility centers in La Mesa and Las Vegas for all information you need about MV-1 vans from VPG Autos.

Mobility Vehicles For Disability Needs

As we getting older, our health beginning to deteriorate and the energy that we had when we were young has reduced significantly. To many of us, this could mean low energy level, rheumatoid arthritis, muscular pain and deficiency of energy that should not stop anyone from living a life that is pleasant and enjoyable. If you do not like the appeal of wheelchairs, right now there are some other mobility options which you can use to assist you move around and to do various of your needs.

Mobility vehicles, like wheelchair vans, scooters, and wheelchairs are created to assist old people as well as handicapped one or people with health conditions (Multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury and others) to move and do tasks that they expected was never actually possible. All those devices have grown into extremely favored and popular in region like the United States in latest years. Large numbers of families are now more comfortable to be next to each other with their older family members. To move around and do lots of other aspects that they thought were not quite possible any longer. It is a magnificent advantage that such mobility equipment can honestly give to handicapped people.

Those with a spinal cord injury, disabilities, limited dexterity or range of motion and other conditions may need more than low-tech or reduced effort hand controls to operate primary and secondary driving controls on an accessible or handicapped vehicle.

Primary driving controls are input devices that control the gas/brake and steering functions. Secondary controls are all other electro-mechanical functions such as lights, wipers, shift, etc.

In comparison to a normal wheelchair, electric mobility (like power chairs) tool provides a lot more mobility as well as better range of movement. Wheelchairs need to be hand controlled and for a person with weak arms, this could perhaps be a problem. The handles of the mobility scooter are much easier for disabled person and they allow better maneuvering of the vehicle and offer more fluidness in drive. Corresponding to the version you select, you might choose for more maneuverability with 3 wheel scooter while a 4 wheel model offers more balanced handling. Like a result you can ultimately enjoy getting benefit of such vehicles for both indoors and outdoors conditions.

Wheelchair accessible vans provide many different features for the efficiency of persons operating wheelchairs. All those mobility vans have the capacity for one or two wheelchairs. On particular demand, they could be transformed to satisfy mobility scooters also. Front and rear air cooling system is optional. They are also provided with 4-point or 5-point tie downs for the wheelchairs, alongside seat belts. Total hand controls, 6-way power seat in driver position, power-assisted steering, and external entry controls are also present as other different components.

The ramps of conventional wheelchair vans are commonly spring counter-balanced, bi-fold manual ramp type, with magnetic anti-rattle provisions. Most van dealers additionally incorporate electronic or hydraulic operated ramps. Yet still, the manual types are more trustworthy and easy to handle.

When passenger conversions for handicap vans are concerned, there are certain changes that are must. The floor has to be reinforced; seats have to be added; wheelchair securements have to be installed; hoist or ramp has to be installed; windows have to be installed; van lining and finishing should be modified.
If you are interested in buying or renting Mobility Vans - Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Dodge caravan, Chrysler Town and Toyota Sienna Wheelchair Vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Contact us for all information you need on Handicap Vans

What To Look For When Buying Used Mobility Van

Instead of buying a brand new wheelchair vans, you can choose to get a used mobility van. Ideally, you want to contact a qualified person about your particular needs, including limitations of the wheelchair user, seating specifications and specialized equipment that’s to be installed in the van.
Along with so many vans having a reconstruction before they hit the showroom floor, more and more used mobility vehicles are being available for purchasing. A pre-owned mobility vehicle will fit the payments for lots of people and carries an reasonably priced way to accomplish independency. Be sure to find a dealer that has many different pre-owned mobility vehicles in their stock, instead of than just one or two. They will most likely be able to recognize your needs and discover the ideal fit for you. For the majority a used mobility vehicle is the only alternative as the cost of a new one can be far more than is acceptable.

Right before buying a previously owned handicap vans, look at some options about the modification into your aspect to consider. Take a look at the specific options that the vehicle will arrive with, such as the controls, pedals and other. Getting started with the ignition, determine if it is a dash installed control, or a turnkey on the steering wheel. For most people, this turning motion is upsetting or they simply just cannot do it. Walk true at the mechanics of the vehicle, discover the transmission system type. Most commonly, an automatic transmission is going to be the best fit as a manual transmission involves switching of gears while you are driving and operate of a clutch as well.

On the interior of the van, look over the many types of controls. Are the switches big enough and easy to find? Search for a mobility vehicle that offers electric power locks and windows. This is a must have, most especially for individual that suffers from upper body mobility difficulties. Bench seating are usually more pleasurable and offer the maximum space too. Search over the van and test drive it to be absolutely certain that you are fully satisfied. This is the most significant consideration. If extra transformations are necessary, consult with the dealer to see if that will be possible. Many previously owned mobility vans will offer automated ramps and lowered ground floor for easier entering and unloading wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

The independence that a mobility vehicle will achieve far overshadows any investment they cost. As well as with having an increase in your mobility outside the home it will build up an increase your self esteem. For many that suffer from a handicap or mobility issue, depending on others can lead to depression and even further health problems. Having the independence to go to the store, go shopping at the shopping centers or lunch with old friends will lead to a great top quality of live. That is the objective for any person, and a mobility vehicle can be the initial action in order to achieve it.

If you are interested in buying or renting Mobility Vans - Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Dodge caravan, Chrysler Town and Toyota Sienna Handicap Vans visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Contact us for all information you need on Wheelchair Vans

Mobility Lifts For Wheelchair Vans

If you have never purchased a handicap vehicle, then you may not know about all of the accessories that you can have included on a van. A mobility lift, or wheelchair lift or mobility scooter lift, is a mechanical device that is permanently installed in the mobility van.

Mobility lifts are ultimately what make you able to get in and out of your vehicle. Instead of having to awkwardly struggle to get in and out of your car and risk harming yourself or others, a mobility lift will do the work for you. These lifts are adaptable to your vehicle and they will work no matter what type of wheelchair van you have. Before you buy an automatic or a mobility lift, you will need to make sure that you are buying a quality brand. There are several manufacturers of scooter/wheelchair lifts. Biggest names are VMI, Pride, EZ Carrier, Harmar Mobility etc.

There are various designs and styles, but essentially, the lift consists of a flat metal panel that will raise and lower to allow the wheelchair passenger to get into the vehicle. Simply roll your mobility device on the platform from either side, hit a button, and let the Meridian do the lifting for you. Scooters and power chairs are automatically secured when lift is raised. Retractable belts are also available for securement. The lift is attached to the van either on the outside undercarriage of the van or inside the vehicle. Inside the van, the driver may be able to simple roll into place and lock down the chair or scooter in the driver's area. Some types are only for vans with side entry. Other types utilize a boom to lift the chair into the rear cargo area of a smaller mini-van or SUV. The type that you require will depend on not only your needs, but on the type of vehicle that you own. The mobility lift works great in a wide variety of wheelchair vans. Some of the van models that are compatible for installation are the Ford Transit Connect, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, GMC Savana, Ford E-Series, and Chevrolet Express. Lift works with cars such as Cadillac escalade, Lexus LX, Porsche cayenne, Toyota Land Cruiser, or Sequoia. If you are converting a minivan, you may be required to install a manual lift. Manual lifts are slightly smaller and do not need the same amount of support and space that an automatic lift requires. If you are not physically capable to operate a manual lift, you will have to purchase an automatic.

Some of the characteristics of mobility lifts are: Multi language LCD Interface, remote control, warranty, fully FMVSS compliant, built in manual backup system, signal LED's on both sides of mobility lift.

Your mobility dealers can install wheelchair platform lift in less than 3 hours for most installations. And visual and audible maintenance reminders let users know when their platform handicap lift needs service, parts replacement, or repairs. You should expect a 3 year warranty on parts and a 1 year warranty on labor.


If you need Wheelchair Vans or mobility lifts for you or a person you care about please visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Whether you need mobility van rentals, Mobility Scooters , or disabled driver hand controls, we have either used it personally or our family or friends have.

Honda Wheelchair Vans With VMI Conversion

One of the most popular wheelchair vans on the market today is the Honda Odyssey, and one of the most popular conversions is the Northstar from VMI. Honda is the maker of one of the best and most long-lasting minivans on the market. Vans like the Odyssey have high safety ratings as well as a variety of extra features perfect for families and individuals alike. These vans are some of the most reliable on the market, and they're known to outlast their counterparts by thousands of miles. For this reason, companies specializing in handicapped conversions have created Honda wheelchair vans, which are some of the best one the market.

Honda minivans tend to last for thousands of miles beyond the normal life of a minivan. The reason that these vans are excellent for conversion vans is that they can stretch your dollar further. A wheelchair van is a huge investment. These vans are much more expensive than regular minivans because of their conversions. Since the Honda vans last so long, they'll mean that your dollars go further.

Another reason that these conversion vans are excellent is that they handle better than most other vans on the market that are comparable to them. The vans feature lowered floors, but they are still easy to drive, park, and get into and out of.
Honda wheelchair vans are also great because they can be customized to your needs. You can get side loading, front loading, mobility lifts, and ramps. Some are automatic, and some are manual. Each of these options will suit different types of people better, and you can change different aspects of your Honda wheelchair vans in order to meet your needs.

When one considers the advantages of the Northstar in-floor wheelchair ramp system, there is no question why the Northstar is far and away VMI’s best-selling product.
• Maximum interior space for wheelchair maneuverability,
• Obstruction-free doorway allows easy entry/exit for able-bodied passengers,
• Reduced accessible van conversion wear (no need to deploy mobility ramp for able-bodied passengers) ,
• Clean, uncluttered mobility vehicles interior ,
• Less dirt and debris from ramp into wheelchair vans interior ,
• Wider usable accessible ramp surface ,
• Easy access to all interior buttons, handles, and switches ,
• Full use of front passenger seat ,
• No squeaking or rattling from wheelchair ramp,
• Handicap Ramp stowed safely under floor in the event of a collision ,
• Deployable on curbs up to 10” in height ,
• Ultra-low 8.0° accessible ramp angle,
• 750lb. wheelchair ramp capacity,
• Sure Deploy backup system allows users to stow or deploy the mobility ramp van conversion even in the event of complete power failure ,
• Manual secondary backup system for additional peace of mind.

For all these reasons, the Honda wheelchair vans that are on the market right now are excellent for individuals and families with special needs. These vans are great for those who need something small and maneuverable that will still easily hold a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Hand controls or other handicap driving aids can also be added for a completely independent driving solution in Honda Odyssey with VMI Northstar wheelchair vehicle conversion.

If you need Wheelchair Vans or mobility lifts for you or a person you care about please visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. Whether you need mobility van rentals, Mobility Scooters , or disabled driver hand controls, we have either used it personally or our family or friends have.

Pride Mobility Scooters

Get around smoothly and in style on a Pride Scooter. Whether you're mostly indoors or love to roll on grass or trails, these scooters are easy to operate inside and outside. Pride Scooters are also easy to maneuver around corners and simple to disassemble for transporting on or in your vehicle. With many models, colors, and sizes to choose from, including extra weight capacity, you will find the style that best fits you. Pride mobility scooters are developed for people who have no problems getting around the house, but who need some help at the time they want to go out for longer distances. The main benefit of the mobile scooter is that there are numerous opportunities for you to choose the one that is suitable for your own particular needs. When it comes to Pride mobility scooters you have so much option as GO GO, Victory 10, Celebrity X and Maxima. Here are some of the features:

·         Exclusive, one-hand Feather-touch disassembly provides the ultimate quick transport system,

·         Crush proof basket,

·         Delta tiller with wraparound handles,

·         Pride's exclusive stylish, lightweight, black, low profile wheels,

·         Backlit battery gauge

·         Long-lasting, high-intensity LED headlight offers optimal pathway illumination,

·         Easy access tiller-mounted charger port,

·         Available as 3 and 4 wheel model.

A mobilityscooters advantage is its small sit-down motor, suitable for people with less vigor with their arms or shoulders essential for a manual wheelchair use. Moreover, the rotating seat of a mobile scooter is trouble-free for unlike wheelchairs, you do not have to shift the foot supports. One more advantage is its look because it does not look like a wheelchair-which is often associated with disability. A plus factor is it cost much less than powered wheelchairs. Electric mobility scooters need batteries to run. A typical mobility scooter would require two 12 volt batteries.

The thumb levers of the mobility scooters can control the reverse motions of the vehicle. The seat of the scooter is padded and it is placed above the vehicle on a stem. The user can rest the feet on the floorboard. The scooter is in fact cozy to use and it is very easy to be handled as long as you learn how to use the tiller properly. The user needs to have enough strength in the hand in order to bash the levers backwards and forwards.

There are currently three types of mobility scooters available on the market today: the folding scooter, the three-wheeled scooter as well as the four-wheeled scooter. Each of them has different features that you need to take into account at the time you choose the one that is most suitable for your particular requirements. The folding scooters can be folded, as the name says, and this way they are very easy to transport from one place to another. The three-wheeled mobility scooters are very easy to control and thus highly recommended for any person. They are suitable for being used indoors, even if they are larger than the folding ones. Finally, the four-wheeled scooters are suitable for the outside use and they benefit of more stability.

You can either buy it used from a private individual or from an auction site like EBay or you can buy it new from a reputable dealer. Many things that are sold used are in poor condition. You might end up having to replace the batteries or tires. You also run into a lot of no-name generic scooters. It is far better to purchase a mobility scooter new from a reputable dealer. This way you are guaranteed that the device is in perfect working order and will provide years of reliable service. The Pride mobile scooters provide the perfect vehicle for the mobility needs. You can speak to a professional salesperson when you decide to purchase one. 

If you need WheelchairVans or mobility scooters for you or a person you care about please visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California.

Battery Powered Stair Lifts

Do you have stairs inside your home? A stair lift, like the Bruno Stair Lifts, can raise or lower you smoothly to the next floor or landing. This particular stair lift has a weight capacity of 350 pounds, and uses 12-volt batteries — good thing in the event of an electrical outage. There are three basic varieties of stair lift or chair lifts available in the market which is straight stair lift, curved stair lift and the outdoor stair lift. Numerous models and styles of electric stair lifts are out in the market today.  Each one has its own special features over the others.  One model or brand can be cheaper but it does not necessarily follow that it is the best for you. The Electra-Ride LT Straight Rail Stair lifts is one of them.

Safety

With adjustable seat height and low footrest height, you will be totally at ease on your Electra-Ride LT. Carrying up to 275 lb (125 kg), the unit moves without hesitation when stopping and starting. The standard swivel seat makes it easy to exit when you reach the top or bottom of the stairs. The Electra-Ride LT meets all ANSI A-18.1 residential equipment.

Affordable

Electra-Ride LT offers a long list of standard features at a price that will please even the most budget minded consumer.

Quiet & Smooth Operation

The rack and pinion drive provides a smooth ride which is exceptionally quiet, while the covered gear rack gives you a clean and attractive rail.

Compact

The seat, arms and footrest all flip up for a tight park position, making your stairway completely accessible for family and guests. The arms, seat and footrest flip up, creating plenty of space for others to walk up the stairs. The Electra-Ride LT's soft start/stop feature provides the smoothest ride without hesitation.

You don’t have to be limited by stairs anymore, so enjoy the home you love, upstairs and down! Using two 12-volt batteries that are powered by an unobtrusive battery charger plugged into a standard

House hold outlet, the Electra-Ride LT features strip charge contacts for more flexibility when parking.

You have access to your upstairs and downstairs, even if electrical service in your home is interrupted. Folding rail option allows full clearance to doorways or hallways without rail obstruction. The two wireless call/send controls make installation simple and clean with no wires running along the wall.

·         Locking swivel seat at the top and bottom of the stairway. Seat swivels 67° in each direction (adjustable to 90°) at top and bottom of stairs for convenient exit/entry angles.

·         Two remote, wireless call/send controls.

·         Generous seat size – 17 3/4" (451 mm) between the arms.

·         Footplate and carriage safety sensors.

·         On-board diagnostics make service easier and more precise.

·         Meets all ANSI - A18.1 residential requirements.

·         CSA/C-US listed.

·         Seat belt with buckle.

·         Bruno's Gold Warranty – Five years for major components and two years on parts.

It is very helpful if at least one person in your home understands the basic information about electric stair lifts such as lifting capacity, fold up dimension, drive system, operator controls and many more. If you are thinking of purchasing from a non-manufacturer, check that the company is an approved supplier, otherwise they may not be able to obtain spare parts.

You deserve a better life: a life without limitations. Better Life Mobility can help. Our friendly staff is here to help you find the right, high quality mobility products. Whether you need handicap vans, mobility van rentals, wheelchair accessible service and repairs, home stair lifts, wheelchair lifts or disabled driver hand controls, we have either used it personally or our family or friends have. In fact, 40% of us are disabled or have an immediate family member who is, so we know mobility first-hand.

Wheelchair Vans Conversion

Wheelchair Vans are vans that have been altered to fit wheelchairs with the driver's seat.  Traditional modifications involve lowering the van's floor and adding a ramp.  This enables passengers to be rolled into the vehicle. 

Generally the modifications in a vehicle are done for converting the van into a totally different form of accessible van for the handicapped. The usual steps that are taken by the manufactures for converting a van tends to differ a lot from the brand and the manufacturer. Modifications can be classified into 2 broad categories – the first in which an individual using a wheelchair will be the driver of the vehicle, and second in which an individual seated on a wheelchair would be a passenger. These are the two different ways of perceiving handicap accessible vans and the conversions will differ accordingly.

Try before you buy. Not sure what you'll like best? Try renting first. Your dealer will reimburse rental fees if you end up purchasing the vehicle. Decide where to buy. Decide whether you'll buy directly from the dealer and get it converted at your local licensed adaptive equipment dealer, or buy a van from a mobility manufacturer, secondary modifier, a factory direct seller, or online. What's the difference? Dealer direct + conversion: Not all vans chassis can be converted, or converted safely, so ask dealer before you buy your vehicle direct. Dealer direct + “chop shop” conversion: You may save money with a fabricator, but you won't be sure that all the products work smoothly together or live up to vehicle safety standards. Not recommended. Online: You can shop online, but before you buy, be sure to try them out: all people and wheelchairs have different needs and requirements. Also make sure you have a local service arrangement for your van. Factory direct seller: They convert the vehicle after purchasing it, so it does not have the same testing or quality controls. Not recommended. Feel good about your dealer. Whichever dealer you choose, be sure you feel good about your relationship. You'll need to return many times over the life of the van for preventative maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. 

Conversions of these vehicles would usually involve some changes in the flooring (usually a lower floor is maintained); seating arrangement will be modified for allowing easy wheelchair access; reconfigurable seating arrangement; some means to have access to the external part of the vehicle, in case of going out or coming inside the vehicle (use of lifts, ramp or a turning seat); stiffened suspension that allows added weight of the power chairs and ensures additional weight to be managed from conversion; powered kneeling system added for reducing the slope of ramp; facilities for side and rear entry; fuel lines and gas tanks to be modified; vehicle to be certified and all NHSTA safety requirements to be met. All these aforementioned modifications are crucial to make a vehicle properly accessible by the handicapped and physically challenged persons. It might take several days for completing the entire process of modification; however, the scheduling process to convert and ship this modified vehicle to the site of conversion can take considerable time. Commercial Wheelchair Vans are normally Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Honda Odyssey, Dodge Grand Caravan, Toyota Sienna, converted to suit persons using wheelchairs. 

Visit Better Life Mobility Centers for wheelchair vans conversion or other mobility vehicles. We are happy to answer all your questions about mobility vans.