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

Some Essential Questions on Mobility Vans

Mobility vans are designed and manufactured as ordinary passenger vans targeted at the mass market. A van conversion is the process where a van is customized with a wheelchair ramp or a wheelchair lift. The interior is also modified to provide easier and spacious access for disabled person on a wheelchair. When buying a mobility van you have to consider what you want from the vehicle, how much space you need in it, what colors you like, what wheelchair lift to put inside it, your preferences on interior color, brand, side doors, rear doors etc.

Safety

Safety is important for any vehicle. When it comes to safety all vehicles needs to be tested to see just how well they withstand in the event of an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets specific standards to ensure a vehicle can endure impact from the front, back and both sides. While many are standard of regular vehicles, anytime a vehicle is modified, its best to ensure those safety measures are retained. In addition, when a vehicle contains a lift or ramp, it's important that safety issues surrounding those additions are considered. Any kind of modification made to the car will have an effect to it's rigidity and safety. Even though the original mobility vans have passed a crash test the converted van may not have been tested before. Please, choose only from manufacturers / seller that has passed the crash test for their conversion units.

When buying a mobility van

Like stair lifts, power wheelchairs or any mobility products, mobility modified vehicles have many options. It is important that you get the right vehicle for your needs. You should try vehicle before you buy. Not sure what you'll like best? Try renting vehicle first. Your dealer will reimburse rental fees if you end up purchasing the vehicle.

Big question also is to 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. In a case of online shopping, be sure to try them out too. Different people have different needs and requirements. Also make sure you have a local service arrangement for your mobility van.

Full size van or mini van

The big difference between mobility converted full size and mini vans is that these firs one require a wheelchair lift, while a Mini Van uses a wheelchair ramp. Most of the disabled people feel more secure on a wheelchair ramp and there is always the very small chance that a wheelchair lift will fail leaving you stuck on your lift. Almost everyone who will drive the vehicle from their wheelchair will need to lower the floor of their vehicle. When seated in a wheelchair you are almost higher than a standard vehicle chair, so in order to see out of the vehicle properly the floor will need to be lowered. 6 to 10 inch drops are common for converted vehicles. Raising the roof has the advantage of making the vehicle easier to enter for the user and passengers.

Need Mobility Van or mobility scooter? Buying or renting Mobility Vans visit Creative Mobility Online. We are happy to answer all your questions about Mercedes, Honda, Dodge, Toyota and Chrysler Mobility Vans.

Luxury Mobility Vehicles

Although minivans are a popular choice among mobility vans users, a full size van can provide more interior space and headroom. For those that have specialty equipment or just want extra space, the Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon Denali, Mercedes Benz or Cadillac Escalade full sized mobility van could be the perfect option. These mobility vans are considered luxury vehicles due to its customization, maximum space and variety of interior options. The Chevrolet can be equipped with leather seats, overhead cabinets, sofa, walnut dash trim and other features to meet your stylish needs.

Luxury transportation is not something you should have to give up when it comes to purchasing a mobility van. It is important that you keep your style. These stretch conversion vehicles are known for their extravagant features sparing no expense. They are completely customized for those who like to indulge. Some of the many optional features include moon roofs, captain chairs, satellite TV, special lighting, Xbox 360, granite counter tops and the list goes on. You don't need to give up the leather seats, tinted windows, or superior performance to have wheelchair accessibility. Live a life without limitations.

The customized features aren't the only things that make them unique they also come with a variety of lift options to make your life easier. The Ricon Slide-Away Lift is known for its strength, safety and accessibility. When not in use the lift travels to the back of the vehicle providing optimal interior space and prevents obstruction from the side doors. The mobility van can also be equipped with the Ricon Uni-Lite. This is one of the lightest, smoothest and quietest lifts on the market. Its ease of use also makes it one of the most popular. The Ricon Reliant and Ricon KlearVue are other options suitable for the luxury mobility van. While the Ricon Reliant is known for its compact design and reliability the KlearVue offers a unique folding design that eliminates blind spots and obstructed views leaving them both excellent additions to the mobility vehicles.

What about mobility trucks? Your mobility dealer should understand that a wheelchair accessible van may not be for everyone. They can provide both trucks and SUV's which have already had a conversion or we can modify your existing Truck or SUV to make it fully wheelchair accessible. Why would you drive a mini-van when you could drive a truck? For years, wheelchair users have not had the option to drive a 4 x 4 truck. GoShichi LLC has changed the playing field and it is not level. Now you can have a rugged vehicle that can take you comfortably down the road or across an open field. We have engineered a lift system that will put you behind the wheel of one of the most capable, adaptable vehicles on the road today. Whether you need to haul a load of rock, tow a boat, or just feel safe driving down a snow covered road, a GoShichi pickup truck is for you. 

You need to pay attention when it comes to safety all vehicles are crash tested to see just how well they withstand in the event of an accident.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets specific standards to ensure a vehicle can endure impact from the front, back and both sides. Mobility vans needs to be rated with the highest score on the front and side crash car test rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Need mobility scooters or scooter lifts? Buying or renting mobility vans, visit Creative Mobility Online. We are happy to answer all your questions about Mercedes, Honda, Dodge, Toyota and Chrysler Mobility Vans.

Mobility Scooter Lifts

Preserving mobility does not only focus on the mobility device, but the lift or carrier that makes transportation of such mobility device possible is also one very important aspect. In this article we are going to present two of them.

Bruno VSL - 900 Scooter Lift

This fully powered lift is ideal for raising and storing a fully-assembled scooter or wheelchair into the sliding side door of minivans, as well as the passenger side door of full-size mobility vans. Simply connect the docking device to your scooter or wheelchair, and effortlessly raise and store with the hand-held pendant. Here are some features:

·         Ideal for raising and storing a fully-assembled scooter or wheelchair into the driver or passenger (sliding) side door of minivans, as well as the passenger side door of full-size vans.

·         Requires very little arm strength, balance or effort to use. Compact that even when you use it in a minivan, there is still enough room for three passengers to sit comfortably in the rear seat. With the scooter removed, or when traveling without the scooter, entry and exit is easy since the door opening remains unobstructed.

·         Features an optional installation assembly that eliminates the need to drill holes in the floor of the vehicle. This allows easier removal when it comes time to transfer the lift in and out of a minivan.

·         Can be used for either three- or four-wheel scooters as well as manual-folding or power wheelchairs weighing up to 200 lb/90 kg. The hand-held controller makes this lift simple and easy to use.

·         Powered by your vehicle's battery and all lift operations are automatic - just help guide the scooter or wheelchair into place.

·         Can be powered by the vehicle's battery or the optional Bruno Pow'rPac (a self-contained power supply that is charged through the vehicle's power port). Allows unit operation even if vehicle battery is inoperable. Recommended for hybrid vehicles with small accessory batteries.

·         Up to $1200 is available to help pay for a vehicle lift through Mobility Reimbursement Programs

Bruno Out - Sider Meridian ASL - 250

This easy to use product lifts and stores your unoccupied scooter or power chair outside your vehicle at the touch of a button. 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. Features are:

·         Fully Powered - Makes lifting and storing your scooter or power chair outside your vehicle virtually effortless - one button operation

·         350 lb/160 kg lifting capacity

·         Safe/Reliable - Independently tested for rough road conditions, 100,000 mile life, and environmental operating extremes

·         Drive on/off either side of platform - no reversing necessary

·         Platform automatically folds up when not in use

·         Automatically secures scooters and power chairs when lift is raised

·         Retractable belts are also available for safety

·         Optional Swing-Away available to access rear vehicle hatch

·         Standard lighted license plate holder with 3rd brake light provides additional safety

·         Bruno's Back-Off backrest removal device allows someone to lift off the backrest part of the mobility device seat, allowing it to fit into shorter vehicle openings without having to remove the entire seat! Available for many different mobility scooters and power chairs.

Need mobility scooters or scooter lifts? Buying or renting mobilityvans, visit Creative Mobility Online. We are happy to answer all your questions about Mercedes, Honda, Dodge, Toyota and Chrysler Mobility Vans.

Advantages Of Owning A Mobility Scooter

A mobility scooter is a great method of giving those who are unable to walk or those who are unable to walk long distances the ability to be self-dependent. After an accident, you want to do things but can’t move around too well. You can use a scooter to get out, get to work, get to the store and see the doctor without having to wheelchairs. They are great investments that can be enjoyed for several years.

The electric models are very versatile and are used to perform many functions. They are used in the foldable and utility types most often. But perhaps where they perform their greatest task is in assisting the elderly or disabled. It wasn't too long ago that these mobility vehicles had a very limited distance, but with the advancement of batteries and their capacities they can now be used for an entire day before needing to be recharged. 

Electric movements are made possible using the handlebars that are located in front of you while sitting in the three-wheel scooter chair. The handles look a bit like bicycle handlebars will look. Soft rubber grips are located on each side of the handlebars for those who are sitting in the scooter for a few hours to have easy mobility with the hand controls. For the disabled, the ease of using a scooter is all a choice. Many have electronic handles, joysticks, and even foot controls. Many also feature seat belts, which for added safety should be worn if included. The speed of the mobility scooter can be controlled easily and some have a top speed of over 10 miles per hour, but you do not have to drive it this fast and doing so can reduce the charge of the battery dramatically. It is important to note that mobility scooters that will travel on main roads should be equipped with taillights and headlights with speed of 8 mph minimum, as provided by law.

Using your own scooter is going to allow you the freedom to travel in the retail setting while still feeling comfortable. You make the personal seat adjustments to your scooter, adjust the handle bars and the controls to your personal liking, and the scooter settings will stay that way, because you are the only one who is using your scooter. Your personal scooter is just like your car, your personal transportation.

The type of personal mobility scooter you buy will depend upon several factors.  Including weight of the user, whether the scooter will be used mostly indoors or outdoors and the amount of usage involved.  Make sure you inform your salesperson of these factors.  Don’t get talked into buying a scooter you don’t need. You should 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. 

Physically handicapped individuals can now optimize and enjoy more their freedom and independence. There seems to be no end to what man can achieve. In fact, we seem to be limited only by our own imagination. It is only a matter of time before man can achieve all of his dreams, hopes and aspirations.

For more info on mobility products like stair lifts or wheelchair lifts visit Better Life Mobility Centers. We will do whatever it takes to make sure your mobility needs are met. Our friendly staff is here to help you find the right, high quality mobility product.

Mobility Products Warranty And Insurance

It is now possible to take a warranty (extended) and accidental damage insurance to cover home mobility products which include adjustable beds, riser recliner chairs and stair lifts. Therefore in the event of an accidental damage including mechanical or electrical breakdown, protection will be offered. Such warranties and insurance can be taken out on both new and used products. However before taking out a warranty it is worth considering that a new product may be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Periods usually cover 12, 24, 36 or 48 months for new products. For used products cover can usually be taken three months after the product have been purchased and will last for 9 months. This is usually to ensure that used products are reliable before insurance and warranties commence. Upon renewal a 12 month period can be taken.

There are two main types of warranties available these are:

·         On Site (OS) Warranty: This warranty is the most convenience where repairs to the mobility product are carried out at you home. There may be exceptional cases were the product cannot be repaired at the home and will need to be taken away for full repairs.

·         Return to Base (RTB) Warranty: This warranty will result in the product being taken to a workshop for repairs. For new product be wary of this warranty as often you may be requested to return the product in it original packaging which may not always be possible.

Before taking any insurance or warranty cover be sure to read all small print, and ask any questions you may have, especially with reference to the type of warranty being offered. It is also possible to take insurance to cover mobility scooters. There are two aspects of this type of insurance. First, to cover the scooter itself for damage, secondly to cover injuries or damage to a third party or the third parties property.

Your new mobility product will help you enjoy much greater independence and greatly improve your quality of life. You’ll wonder how you lived without it. So what if you had to? What if it was damaged or stolen? If you have a mobility scooter what if you accidentally injured someone? How would you meet any possible legal costs and claims?

Insuring accessible vehicles is somewhat like buying insurance for a traditional vehicle. There are two major things you want to be sure of as you shop for wheelchair accessible vehicle or handicap van insurance:

·         Know what kind of accessible vehicle you have.

·         Make sure your agent or insurance company knows what you have and what it cost.

Modifications are not the only factors that influence premiums. Extensive range of mobility protection policies includes great value insurance for mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs costs, offering superb cover which includes:

• Accidental damage, including fire and flood
• Theft and vandalism
• Loss or other liability claims from third parties

• New-for-old replacement
• Worldwide protection

Need mobility products for you or a person you care about? Please visit Better Life Mobility Centers in San Diego, California. We will do whatever it takes to make sure your mobility needs are met. Our friendly staff is here to help you find the right, high quality mobility product. Whether you need handicap vans, mobility van rentals, wheelchair accessible service and repairs, wheelchair lifts, or disabled driver hand controls, we have either used it personally or our family or friends have.