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The Best Four Wheelchair Vans We Have Seen In 2013 It is hard to live with disability, because everyday things become a challenge. U.S. Census Bureau report from 2008 states that 3.3 million non-institutionalized Americans over age 15 years use wheelchairs. The reason why there are so many people with disabilities is that U.S. spent decades at war. This is why mobility industry is rethinking the products it provides to support a growing demographic. Vantage Mobility International (VMI) and Braun Ability are two leading industry players that spent decades converting wheelchair vans from companies such as Chrysler , Toyota , and Honda into wheelchair-accessible modes of transportation. VMI Toyota Sienna (Base MSRP: up to $25,000 + cost of van) Toyota Sienna is the most selling model of VMI and they work directly with Toyota in the conversion process. In order for everything to fit properly, integration of VMI’s mobility specific features was performed with Toyota as a consultant. Rear axle and seats of the VMI Sienna are moved rearward by 12 inches to extend the amount of usable passenger space inside the minivan. Also, the floorpan is dropped 12.75 inches with the goal to get more headroom and a lower ramp angle for easier entry and exit. The vans that have gone through the modifications have been crash tested to ensure that they maintain at least the same safety rating as they did before the conversion. Toyota Sienna comes with â€Å"in-floor† system that VMI is known for. In opposed to "fold-out"-style ramp, the in-floor unit is placed between the passenger floor and the bottom of the vehicle. The main advantage of an in-floor ramp is that it doesn't intrude into the passenger area of the van when stowed, which leaves more room for ... ... How To Choose A Van For You? Since there are so many options on the market, take several options in consideration and choose the best one according to you specific requirements. Gather all information, so you can compare in-floor with fold-out ramps and choose one according to the conditions you will be using it. If you're based in an area where it rains and snows a lot, an in-floor lift may be solution to helping you keep your interior clean. Fold-out lift may be a better option if you live in area with lots of curbs and hills. All wheelchair accessible vans described above could be found in Better Life Mobility Centers in Riverside , La Mesa , California and Las Vegas , Nevada. Our friendly staff will help you look for a handicap wheelchair van that you will enjoy! Visit our showrooms to get all needed info about mobility vans or see online our vehicle inventory.