Make Travel Easier With the Best Wheelchair Vans

A wheelchair-accessible van is a vehicle that has been modified to increase the interior size of the vehicle and is equipped with a means of wheelchair entry, such as a wheelchair ramp or powered lift, to allow access. There are many different options and possibilities with handicap accessible vehicles; the most common option is a wheelchair accessible minivan.

This type of van is modified to allow a wheelchair van or scooter user to drive their mobility equipment directly into the handicap accessible vehicle with no assistance. Featuring a 10-11″ dropped floor for easy entry and exist (with headroom up to 58″!) and removable front seats that allow the user to ride safely in the front passenger area or even drive from their wheelchair.

Finding the Right Wheelchair Van

To get started with your hunt for the right wheelchair van, create a list of features you want and need, so you can accurately access the cost differences. Take into consideration how you’re going to transport the whole family. Consider the adaptive equipment that needs to be transported. Will it change over time? What is the age of the user and caregivers? Having a budget in mind is very important.

Check with a Mobility Consultant to obtain all information including 10-year financing options and rebates available. They can also help explain features and benefits, and guide you through the wheelchair van conversion buying process. Rent and try before you buy.  Buy for today, and tomorrow! It’s a big investment that should last you many years.  Now that we have that checklist done, let’s take a look at the best wheelchair vans on the market.

Chrysler Town & Country

The Chrysler Town & Country is a storied minivan, known as much for its luxurious appointments as for its practical versatility. Chrysler (Town & Country) was one of the first automobile manufacturers to make minivans, and they instantly caught on with the American consumer. Naturally, handicapped vehicle manufacturers quickly made accessible modifications to these minivans that continue to be popular today.

There are 8 different conversions available for the Chrysler Town & Country. Braun CompanionVan, CompanionVan Plus, CompanionVan Plus XT, Braun Power, Power XT, and Power Infloor, VMI Northstar and VMI Summit.  Chrysler Town & Country conversion is discrete: from the outside, it doesn’t even appear to be an accessible vehicle! It earns points for style as well as functionality, especially since it’s equipped with a 30” or 34” ramp that can be either automatic or spring-assisted according to your preference. This model is available in an ADA-compliant configuration with optional driver or passenger transfer seating.

Dodge Caravan

Another classic in the world of Wheelchair Vans. The Dodge Grand Caravan minivan remains one of the best mobility ramp vans in America. By sliding out of a space between the floor, the  mobility ramp maximizes space inside the accessible vehicle. There are so many benefits of an in-floor wheelchair ramp, it is easily understood why its so popular.

The Dodge  Caravans feature a power in-floor ramp and power door. Many customers prefer the rugged look of the Dodge Grand Caravan over more urban styled handicap van conversions.

Ford Minivans

Minivans designed by Ford are known for their full-size and compact features. These include: a raised roof, lowered floor, and power doors specifically tailored for the driver. Maybe more importantly, they have a wide variety of price ranges to fit any customer’s budget. The van also has retractable shoulder belts, a reverse sensing system, high quality seating, and a three-year warranty.

Whether you’re looking for comfort, accessibility, luxury, or performance, the vehicles mentioned above will satisfy your every need. Make sure to determine your budget and major concerns before making a decision, in order to ensure you’re purchasing the right vehicle for you.

Honda Odyssey Wheelchair Van

The Honda Odyssey handicap van is very popular and for good reason. It has a long history of performance. This model features in-floor and folding ramps, and has side and rear entry for easy access. The Honda Odyssey also has superior safety features, such as electronic brake distribution and anti-lock brakes. These features show Honda has one of the top minivans on the road. Conversions of the Honda Odyssey include the Braun, and VMI wheelchairs.

The Honda wheelchair van comes available as a side-entry or rear-entry. A rear-entry vehicle’s low-angle ramp makes it easy to access the interior through the rear door. The unique design of this mobility upgrade makes it possible to use standard parking spaces when accessible parking is unavailable. Depending on the number of passengers you need to accommodate, a variety of seating options can be installed in your Honda Odyssey wheelchair van. Safety always comes first with this brand. Their Honda wheelchair vans are built on a state-of-the-art assembly line, ensuring consistent quality you can rely on day in and day out.