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1. Wheelchair Accessible Van from Better Life Mobility
Introduction
This type of van is a type of vehicle that have been modified by increasing the interior size so that it can
equip a wheelchair entry like for example a powered lift or a wheelchair ramp to allow access. No
matter what are the individual preferences of the passengers, the right van, transfer seat, stowage lift,
hand controls or any other type of mobility equipment requirement can be met.
Modifications
The steps that a manufacture goes through to convert a normal van to a wheelchair accessible van
varies from one manufacture to another. The modifications can be of two categories, the first one is the
individual with a wheel chair is a driver whereas in the other case he/she may be a passenger. The
modification takes time to complete. However, the whole process of programming the conversion and
shipping it from the site of conversion takes around six weeks.
Types of conversions
Conversions mainly include:
 Lowering some portion of the floor
 Modification of seat to allow access of wheel chair and it is reconfigurable.
 Addition of means of external access can be mainly a ramp, turning seat, lift.
 To allow extra weight from conversion or additional weight of chairs, suspension has to be
stiffened
 Side entry conversions - to reduce the slope of ramp, power kneeling system is added
 Modification of fuel lines and gas tanks
 To meet the safety requirements according to NHTSA, vehicle is certified.
Few types of passenger conversions are:
 Addition of seats
 Reinforcement of floor
 Installation of wheelchair securements or tie downs
 Installation of hoist or ramp
 Installation of windows
 Finishing - van lining
Entry Configurations
These types of configurations are generally of two types, side entry and rear entry. These entry locations
effects wheelchair seating positions, options to park, storage availability, and capability to accommodate
other passengers.

2.  Side Entry: Advantages of this style of entry are: individual can drive from a wheelchair itself, or
to sit in the passenger seat in a driver position in a wheelchair, away from traffic and enter and
exit away from the traffic. Disadvantage of a side entry configuration includes extra space for
handicap parking, extra room for ramp positioning, also some of the driveways are not that wide
to accommodate a vehicle. Above seventy-five percent of the individuals who opt for such
vehicle, choose a side entry style of configuration.
 Rear Entry: this style of entry can be used for applications that are attended that is, in which the
handicapped passenger is not driving. The advantage of such style is no extra space is required
also; there is no blockage of side passenger doors. However, there is a limitation for the entry in
case of traffic areas.
Conclusion
When you decide for a wheelchair van, the first option that strikes is a minivan. You can choose from
Dodge, Honda, Chrysler, and Toyota models. Nowadays, minivans are a popular choice among the
individuals for modification. For more info click here.