Fiorella F500 Platform Lift

“As a company committed to innovation, VMI has partnered with one of the leading lift companies in the world,” said Doug Eaton, president of VMI.  “The introduction of the Fiorella lift to the U.S. market reinforces our promise to introduce dependable, state-of-the-art products to our dealers and consumers that have a competitive edge.”

The cutting-edge materials provide high strength, low weight and a compact size.  The lifts are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and to integrate beautifully with the vehicle interior.  The external platform covers can be painted to match the vehicle interior as well.  A standard jewel-like keychain remote accompanies the product. 

Fiorella F500 Platform Lift

“Current platform lifts are visually dominated by steel frames and exposed mechanical components, but the Fiorella lift features a striking design,” noted Eaton.  “We understand the importance of providing our dealers and customers with a product that is not only reliable in its function, but is elegant and integrated into the vehicle’s overall design.”

The versatile lifts are available in left or right arm configurations for the unique needs of each end-user, while semi-automatic and fully automatic versions are available for caretakers or independent drivers.  The lift also has a detachable control unit that can be placed anywhere in the vehicle. 

Fiorella F500 installed in a Ford Transit Connect

The Fiorella platform lift comes with the following features:

• An anti-crushing sensor prevents the lift from injuring users
• Smooth and quiet operation
• Rattle free when vehicle is in motion
• 30” usable platform width
• 42” usable platform length
• A weight capacity of 500 Ib.

“The Fiorella lift features an LCD interface that has a multi-language capability and produces visual messages for maintenance reminders,” noted Ted Larson, vice president of engineering at VMI.  “It’s the only lift with this resource in the U.S. and we are the only company that has this product available to dealers and consumers.  Using our Certified Sustainable Quality (CSQ) System we’ve increased the level of our manufacturing process to ensure every product performs as it should, including the Fiorella lift.”

To view a video of the Fiorella F500, click here.

3E Love is a disability awareness clothing line and marketing company founded in 2007 by siblings Annie and Stevie Hopkins and their family & friends. The mission of the company is simple; to create and market products and services that embrace living life no matter the obstacles, and by doing so, educate society and empower those with disabilities to love life.

3E Love

3E Love’s registered trademark, the “International Symbol of Acceptance” also known as the “wheelchair-heart logo”, is the drive behind much of their goals and products. It is a symbol of society accepting people with disabilities as equals and a symbol that people with disabilities accept their challenges and even embrace them. By replacing the wheel with a heart, the stigma of the wheelchair is also removed, and it can be a symbol for people with any disability or impairment. It represents the person, not society’s perception of their lack in abilities.

The symbol is an attitude and a lifestyle. It’s accepting one’s abilities and rallying around that diversity and turning it into strength. It’s loving and living life to the fullest no matter who you are and what you look like, what you can or cannot do.

Monique and one of the 3E Love Guys!

At each of the expos, they’ve asked us to put their wheelchair-heart logo on our wheelchair vans that are on display.  Of course we displayed their logo and the stickers actually look great on the vehicles.  I bought a tee shirt and wear it proudly around town and will continue to spread the word about such a great organization and I suggest you do the same.  Check out their Website at http://3elove.bigcartel.com or call them at 1-877-3ELOVE-1.

“We’re honored to be a part of the Honda family,” said Doug Eaton, president of VMI.  “Over the past five years, we’ve invested a great deal of time and engineering expertise to ensure our Northstar in-floor ramp and Summit fold-out ramp conversions are true to Honda’s quality, reliability and safety standards.  This demonstrates our ability to deliver a conversion van that meets the expectations of Honda customers worldwide.”

The 2011 Odyssey is available in four trim levels including EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite, all powered by an efficient 248 horsepower I-VTEC V6 engine.  The Odyssey offers best-in-class fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway using advanced technologies like the six-speed automatic transmission and Variable Cylinder Management.  Honda offers an array of entertainment options on the new minivan, including a 650 Watt stereo system with USB audio interface and 16.2” dual DVD screen.

“We designed our wheelchair conversion of the 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan based on tools and systems acquired from our Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives,” added Ted A. Larson, VMI’s vice president of engineering.  “Through these advanced manufacturing processes, our engineering team was able to pinpoint potential issues during development and correct them before production began.  It’s our way of staying true to the same core values that has made Honda one of the leading automotive manufacturers around the world.”

The Honda includes an improved FLEX floor that provides an unprecedented 12 ¾” drop from the original floor, affording the conversion two unique distinctions; the most wheelchair maneuvering room and the lowest ramp angle of any VMI conversion.  E-coated for corrosion resistance and assembled with lightweight stamped metal components, the FLEX floor is VMI’s foremost statement on innovation. 

VMI Honda Northstar - with PowerKneel

Both the Honda Northstar and Summit conversions feature an improved PowerKneel^TM system to reduce noise and increase dependability.  The PowerKneel^TM lowers the vehicle to provide the wheelchair user with a lower ramp angle when traveling into and out of the vehicle.  The system has an electro-hydraulic actuator that uses less energy and a built-in manual release for safety. 

The Northstar conversion includes:

• 55” Door opening height
• 30” Usable ramp width
• 750 lb. Load rating
• SURE DEPLOY^TM Emergency Backup System
• Successfully completed two 10,000 mile validation cycles
  

  VMI Honda Summit

The Summit conversion includes:

• 55” Door opening height
• 28 7/8” Usable ramp width
• 600 Ib. Load rating

 VMI has passed all required Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), including the rigorous 50 mph rear impact collision, which tests floor structure and fuel system integrity.  VMI spared no cost to make the 2011 Honda Odyssey conversion the safest and most reliable vehicle in the mobility market.

“We put every vehicle through meticulous testing to make sure it exceeds FMVSS regulations,” noted Eaton.  “We believe that merely meeting minimum safety requirements is not good enough.  We’re committed to ensuring that our dealers and consumers have a product they can trust the minute they turn the ignition switch.  This level of commitment keeps VMI in sync with the core values espoused by the Honda brand.”     

Sweet Ride!

The 2011 Honda Odyssey with the VMI wheelchair conversion is currently available to the public.  For more information, visit VantageMobility.com or call 800-348-8267 x2401.

Beginning Friday July 8th and running through the weekend, the expo won’t disappoint.  Products that will be on display include:Diveheart:  Diveheart Adaptive SCUBA Session – A SCUBA experience for people with disabilities
Otto Bock Healthcare: Squiggles Seat – The new updated Squiggles Seating System provides postural support for younger children with special needs.
Spinergy: Spinergy FlexRim handrims – High performance ergonomic handrim
Sprint Captel:Sprint WebCapTel®-Sprint’s WebCapTel® service is a free, web-based service that allows individuals to use a computer, internet and telephone (even wireless) to read captions on their computer screen!!
VMI: Wheelchair vans – 2011 VMI Honda Odyssey, 2011 VMI Chrysler Town & Country and the Fiorella F500 platform lift

Events and Activities make the total Abilities experience:
Adapted Climbing Wall – Sponsored by National Spinal Cord Injury Association, a program of United Spinal Association.  Would you believe adaptive climbing is a sport that nearly everyone can do? Come try the Adaptive Climbing Wall this year at Abilities Expo and be surprised at what you can achieve!
Adaptive Archery Demonstration – Presented by Lindsey Carmichael, Beijing Paralympics Bronze Medalist and Two-Time Paralympian.  Sponsored by Mobi Legs. Join Lindsey Carmichael for an exciting demonstration of the sport of adaptive archery. Lindsey is a bronze medalist from the Beijing Paralympics and a two-time Paralympian.
Wheelchair Dance Demonstration – Presented by Colours~N~Motion. Sponsored by Colours Wheelchair. Dancing is fast becoming a popular activity for wheelchair users.

Free workshops round out the Expo – check dates and times:
Exercise for Anyone with a Disability – Presented by Pam Ferris, NCPAD Coordinator/Adaptive Fitness Specialist, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.  Exercise should be an important part of everyone’s lives, but sometimes it is hard to find a time or a place to do so. Come and find out why it is important to have physical activity in your everyday life and also how to overcome certain obstacles that may be in your way. Demonstrations will be held and participation is optional.
Creating Independence: An Introduction to Assistive Technology.   Presented by Sue Castles, Training Coordinator, Illinois Assistive Technology Program. This workshop informs individuals about the services provided by the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP). It provides information about the wide array of assistive technology (AT) devices and familiarizes consumers and service providers with a model to use when considering purchasing AT. It demonstrates, through the use of a PowerPoint display and hands on access, technologies for people with disabilities that can assist them in work, school, home and recreation. The workshop also provides information on funding sources available for purchasing AT.
Travel Made Easy: Tips for People with Disabilities. Debra Kerper, Easy Access Travel and Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH).  Discover how to expand your life with travel to new places! This workshop will provide you with specific details and how-to’s to make traveling more successful and enjoyable.

These are just a few of the products, workshops and activities that will be going on over the course of the 3 day expo.  Mark your calendars and make a point to come and see us, it’ll be worth your while!

We recently went through a minor brand re-fresh here at VMI and a large part of that re-fresh was imagery.  I think we’ve always done a great job of capturing real life and real customers with our wheelchair vans, since 90% of the models we use are VMI van owners.  We take pictures of people both on location and in the studio for use in various mediums; web site, brochures, billboards, etc.   The below picture was a great shoot in downtown Mesa, AZ; “Ladies Night Out”. 

Ladies Night Out - Mesa Arts Center

 The below shot was taken in our studio.  The woman is Wendy Wolfe, former Ms. Wheelchair Arizona who was gracious enough to help us with these great pictures. 

2007 Honda Odyssey with the VMI Northstar Conversion

Now, there is nothing wrong with these pictures.  But, anyone who is buying a wheelchair van knows there is a ramp and knows it will give them freedom and independence.  What these pictures don’t show is emotion.  What does that freedom and independence feel like?  We decided to put a call out in the Phoenix area for wheelchair users to participate in a photo shoot that was just about them, not about vans, not about their disability, just about them being who they are.  We took the below photo of our new friend Mike and his date.  I love this photo because it captures a moment. 

Mike and his date

Then, we took these photos and put them on various backgrounds to show that these moments can happen anywhere. 

2011 VMI Honda Odyssey

Happy Bryce!

We hope you like our new imagery as much as we do.  Imagine Possibilities!

I would first start with doing some research online to get some estimates for the value of your van.  Disabled Dealer is a great resource since many used wheelchair vans are sold through this magazine.  I would also search Craig’s list and eBay as well.  Lastly, type in words like “used wheelchair van” into Google or any search engine and see what is out there for used vans and what price they are selling.  This should give you a good idea as to what other vans have sold for, what condition they are in, etc.  

Secondly, I would take the van to your local mobility equipment dealer and have them estimate the value of the wheelchair van.  Since their entire business is based around selling wheelchair vans, they are probably your best resource.  The local dealer may also be interested in buying your wheelchair van which will help you by not having to do that on your own.  They obviously will probably offer you less than if you sold it on your own, no different than with a regular (not wheelchair accessible) used car.  

To locate Mobility Equipment Dealers in your area, go to www.nmeda.org or call them directly at 866.948.8341.

From a mobility transportation solutions perspective, there were more options at the show than ever before.  From the new and exciting GoShichi truck to the Mobility Conquest motorcycle, customers had the opportunity to see products that typically are not stocked at the local Mobility Equipment Dealer.  There was of course a large display of wheelchair minivans, from side-entry lowered floor vans to rear-entry wheelchair vans.  Ford Mobility, Toyota Mobility and Chrysler Mobility also had booths showcasing their products and services that they offer to the disabled community.  

2011 VMI Honda Odyssey

 Hopefully you had the opportunity to go see the Expo in LA and experience all it has to offer.  If you were not able to go, remember that your local Mobility Equipment Dealer can help you with any questions you have and they are always there to help.  I was talking with a wonderful couple at the show and they had a child who was in a wheelchair, and was unable to attend.  The parents were looking around at all the different options in terms of wheelchair minivans and quickly got overwhelmed.  The good thing is that the show offered the opportunity for Sue and Charles to see all the options out there. The difficulty came as they were gathering information, especially when it came to the differences between side-entry lowered floor minivan vs. a rear-entry minivan.  They understood the pros and cons to both but couldn’t make a decision as to what direction to take. 

Wheelchair Vans in the Aero Mobility booth

My recommendation to them was to take the information home, discuss it and then make an appointment with a Mobility Equipment Dealer where they could discuss things in a more quiet and intimate setting.  I also suggested that they bring their son, so they could get him in each of the options available and see what worked best for them and him.  Another important thing that people should do is to take the vans on a test drive; take them to a parking lot and see how getting in and out of each van (especially side-entry vs. rear-entry) works with their son.  Take it home and see how the ramps maneuver around your house, garage, church, school, etc. 

Remember that a mobility transportation solution is not a one size fits all.  Do your research.  Do your due diligence and find the best solution for you and your family.

 After I posted a couple of pictures to Facebook, we received a couple of posts from consumers:

“I dunno…is it going to be dangerous to have a lift out the back when in shopping parking lots? Scares me a little”

“I would never feel safe unfolding a ramp in the rear”

The reason why I share these posts with you is to again stress the importance of your local mobility equipment dealer.  While this new Fiorella lift is being shown in the back of a van, it can also be installed in the side of many vans.  This is the same with many platform lifts on the market; most are pictured in the side but many can also be installed in the rear.   Mobility Equipment Dealers are experts in finding the right product and application for you and your needs.  When you first meet with a dealer, you will go through a complete needs analysis that helps the mobility specialist give the best recommendation for you and your lifestyle.  For example, if you live in an area that has limited handicap parking; a rear entry accessible van may be the best option for you since you only need a single parking space.  However, like the two people posted above, there is a risk when backing out of a rear entry wheelchair van. 

Most side entry wheelchair vans are not designed for an independent driver; but more for passengers and caregivers.  So, you may feel better when using a rear entry lift/ramp the person in the chair will not be alone and can be guided out of the van to ensure there are no obstructions or no oncoming traffic.  Most rear entry wheelchair vans are a great option because of the low price tag.  Since the modifications are not as invasive as a typically side-entry lowered floor minivan, you can save thousands of dollars. 

Remember to do your due diligence.  Ask questions and always seek out the advise of a local mobility equipment dealer who has the expertise and can help you find the most suitable solution for you.

“Until now, there hasn’t been a consolidated source where customers can compare the results of every manufacturers’ safety scores for wheelchair accessible vehicles,” noted Doug Eaton, president of VMI.  “The NMEDA website now publishes that vehicle safety information, which is voluntarily provided by mobility vehicle manufactures.  VMI is proud to be among the first to publically release our government safety standards for all of our wheelchair vehicles.  By working with NMEDA and being completely transparent with our safety standards, VMI is empowering mobility customers with critical safety information that will better help in the selection of their wheelchair accessible vehicle.”

2011 VMI Honda Odyssey - Rear Crash Test

For the first time ever, safety data is being made available to consumers by NMEDA.  Through their Compliance Review Program, all important government regulatory safety standards and manufacturer compliance resultsare available on-line.  NMEDA members are not required to submit data, and all data turned in is confidential. 

“Our Compliance Review Program allows our manufacturer members to publicize the results of their safety test programs through an independent third party,” noted Dave Hubbard, director of NMEDA.  “Over the years, VMI has been a strong supporter of NMEDA’s safety initiatives, and we appreciate their efforts in promoting fair competition and the highest safety standards.”

VMI Wheelchair Van Crash Test

In an effort to put the power of choice back into consumers’ hands, VMI has actively integrated safety into each aspect of its manufacturing processes.  As an advocate for safe and reliable products, VMI is setting the highest standards of customer satisfaction.  During the FMVSS testing, VMI received “Pass” ratings on the Odyssey, Town & Country and Grand Caravan, including:

• 50 mph rear impact collision, which tests floor structure and fuel system integrity
• 33.5 mph side impact collision, which tests side impact protection and fuel system integrity
• 35 mph frontal impact, which tests steering control rearward displacement, occupant crash protection, windshield mounting and zone intrusion and fuel system integrity (The 2011 Dodge/Chrysler van is being scheduled for this test.)
• Pull Testing: Seating Systems and Seat Belt Assy. Anchorages including Wheelchair

“For years, VMI has been one of the few mobility companies to meet FMVSS safety standards,” explained Jacques Bolduc, supervisor of NMEDA’s FMVSS Compliance Review Programs.  “VMI’s safety compliance program is built into the engineering of the vehicle to ensure they exceed safety requirements.  They have a sharp group of engineers who manufacture these vehicles with safety as a top priority.” 

VMI Honda Odyssey - Front Crash Test

VMI’s commitment to safety starts with its award winning minivans.  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan with the highest score on the front and side Crash Test Rating.  The Honda Odyssey was also awarded the “Top Safety Pick” for 2009 in the minivan category.  The National Highway Safety Administration rated all three minivans with a 5 Star Front/Side “Crash Impact Test Rating,” which is the highest in the industry. 

“VMI will continue to release our safety test results because we want our dealers and customers to be confident that our conversions are an extension of the OEMs high standards of quality, reliability and safety,” added Eaton.  “We believe the best decision is an informed decision, which is why we’re empowering our customers with a full disclosure of our safety records.  We hope to motivate others in the market to be as conscientious about safety as our team.”

VMI’s highly-anticipated 2011 Honda Odyssey also underwent rigorous safety testing including the newly instituted 50 mph rear collision test.  The soon to be released Honda Odyssey vehicle modification complies with all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.  The 2011 Honda Odyssey, with the VMI wheelchair conversion, will be available to the public April 2011.

“VMI has manufactured and sold more Honda Odyssey wheelchair conversions by several thousand units than anyone in the world,” said Doug Eaton, president of VMI.  “We’re proud that this patented design for the rear suspension of the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Town & Country is helping people gain back their driving independence.”

The inventors, Neil O’Leary and Mike Schmidt, both long time VMI engineers, developed this technology in the early stages of converting the Honda Odyssey to a lowered floor ramp, wheelchair accessible vehicle. When O’Leary and Schmidt came across a series of competing consumer requirements, including ride and handling, interior room, cost and ride height, they were not deterred.  The outcome is a wheelchair van that maintains OEM suspension kinematics, has similar ride and handling characteristics of an unconverted Odyssey and has maximum wheelchair maneuvering room.  The invention has since been applied to the Chrysler Town & Country. 

Mike Schmidt and Neil O’Leary

The provisional application was filed in 2007 and the final application filed in 2008.  As of Nov. 23, 2010, U.S. patent number 7,837,303 is marked on the rear suspension of all VMI Honda Odysseys per USPTO regulation.  The patent also excludes others from manufacturing, distributing, building, selling or using the product without permission from VMI. 

“We encourage our team’s creative thinking to provide the mobility market with great products at fair prices,” noted Ted Larson, VMI vice president of engineering.  “Mike Schmidt and Neil O’Leary represent the caliber of both our people and the products they build.”  

“Fair competition in the marketplace helps foster innovation, which ultimately benefits consumers,” added Eaton.  “One of the reasons we support fair competition is the tremendous engineering and intellectual capital poured into every product.  This patent demonstrates the value of that completion for everyone who needs a wheelchair van.”