There are many considerations to think about when looking at mobility solutions and accessible minivans. Here are the mains ones you should be aware of:
1. Conversion Dimensions and Features: The Right Fit
The first thing you need to make sure of is that you or the person with a disability can enter the wheelchair van, maneuver their wheelchair into the desired traveling position and secure the wheelchair and occupant for travel. You can get a general sense by comparing the dimensions of the individual against the dimensions listed in the product literature. This comparison will indicate if it is possible but it is no substitute for trying out the vehicle.
There are many differences in height, width, length and ramp angle among the various minivan chassis and conversion manufacturers. A couple of inches may not seem like much but it can be the difference between success and failure when it comes to usability. In general, people and wheelchairs of average to below average size can fit into most conversions comfortably. However, as the size of the person and/or wheelchair increases, it becomes more important to try the wheelchair van on for size; especially if you want the wheelchair in the front passenger position.
2. Ramp Placement: Side Entry vs. Rear Entry
Wheelchair Ramps for minivans can be placed in the side or the rear of the vehicle. Side-entry ramps are most common but there are many people who prefer rear-entry ramps as well. Factors such as the places you drive, the number and age of other vehicle occupants, where you want the wheelchair secured, your garage setup and other items will come into play as you make this decision.
Budget will also be a factor as rear-entry wheelchair conversions tend to be less expensive than similar side-entry conversions.
3. Conversion Type: Power or Manual
Power features like doors and windows are increasingly common on most vehicles today. In wheelchair vans, power features like automatic ramps, power kneeling and power sliding doors are also available. In the wheelchair van market, there are also many conversions available that have manual ramps and doors. Typically these vehicles will still have power locks and windows, just not power equipped wheelchair accessibility items. Some people prefer the lower cost and trouble free operation of the manual product. Others place value on the ease of use that powered features offer.
As you compare models and try them out, you want to be sure to determine your preference so that you make the right choice for you!
4. Ramp Style: In-Floor vs. Fold-up Ramp
In the case of side-entry ramps, there is an additional consideration of whether you want the ramp to slide into a pocket on the floor-and be hidden when not in use-or to fold up and sit against the door in the side doorway. The fold-up ramp is the most common but both fold-up wheelchair ramps and in-floor wheelchair ramps are also quite popular. At this point, both varieties offer reliability, ease of use and quiet operation and transport.
People love the fact that in-floor ramps are “out of sight, out of mind” when not in use and that they don’t block the passenger-side door. However, power in-floor ramps tend to be more expensive, can be more sensitive to maintenance and can be more challenging when using the manual back-up system. In addition, the in-floor feature can often take away from headroom in the wheelchair area.
Fold up ramps are easier to use manually, are less expensive and, because they are accessible, are easier to maintain. However, when ambulatory passengers need to exit on the curb-side of the vehicle, the wheelchair ramp must be deployed.
5. Minivan Manufacturer
Much of your overall satisfaction with your wheelchair van will come from your satisfaction with the performance of the minivan chassis. The features and performance will vary between the Toyota Sienna, the Honda Odyssey and the Chrysler Town and Country. The choice of minivan manufacturer has its own tradeoffs that you will need to consider.
Whether it is dimensions, warranty, crash ratings or other more specific features, you will need to consider this as you make your purchase.
6. Mobility Dealer
As the first line of support for your wheelchair van, it can be your mobility dealer that makes the biggest difference in your overall satisfaction with your handicapped van product. Often, a dealer with strong technical skills and great service can make a good product part of an overall great experience.
Choose carefully to be sure you are working with the right people. How is their reputation for service? Do they have factory trained technicians and after-hours support? Do they have loaner and rental vehicles available if you need to be without the vehicle some time? Does the dealer carry the brands that are recognized as the best in the industry?
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This is great information!
Thanks, we are glad you found it to be useful!