Frequently Asked Questions the BraunAbility Toyota Sienna Hybrid Wheelchair Van
What trim packages is BraunAbility converting?
BraunAbility can convert multiple trim packages for the Toyota Sienna Hybrid. As model year changes occur it is best to consult with your BraunAbility Authorized dealer to verify the trim package that best fits your needs. You can also view the current package features on our Toyota page.
Will BraunAbility accept customer-supplied chassis?
We can convert certain customer-supplied vehicles. Please contact your local BraunAbility dealer for specific trim packages and details to verify we can modify your specific vehicle.
Will all units have a towing package?
BraunAbility will stock units without a hitch. The hitch will need to be installed by a Toyota dealer and will result in the removal of the rear valance piece in order to have access to the hitch.
What is the towing capacity?
Tow capacity is retained at 3,500 lbs.; however, all OEM vehicle weight ratings must be followed. Refer to Owner’s Manual as it clearly defines requirements for towing. Towing package is required for trailering.
Is the horsepower affected due to the hybrid technology?
The Sienna Hybrid features a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors that offer 243 horsepower. It also features an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission, as opposed to a conventional stepped gear automatic transmission.
What type of fuel is recommended for the Toyota Sienna Hybrid wheelchair van?
Toyota recommends unleaded gasoline with an Octane rating of 87 or higher.
Does the conversion affect the Toyota Sienna Hybrid's MPG?
The converted vehicle fuel economy should not significantly differ from the approximate 36MPG highway and city economy noted in the Toyota owner’s manual.
Where are the hybrid batteries located post-conversion?
In order to maximize cabin space while retaining BraunAbility exterior vehicle styling, the high voltage battery was relocated to the space beneath the rear cargo area. It is accessible if required. Please contact your local BraunAbility dealer for more information on battery safety and specifications.
What is the life expectancy of the batteries and the warranty on them?
The high voltage battery warranty is 120 months/150,000 miles (whichever comes first), and the hybrid system warranty is 96 months/100,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Does the BraunAbility conversion modify the Toyota warranty?
No. The Toyota vehicle maintains the standard warranty and the BraunAbility conversion offers a 3 year or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first) standard warranty.
Has the exhaust system and other items been modified?
The exhaust routing has been modified; however, BraunAbility has maintained many OEM components including heat exchanger, catalytic converter, muffler, and flex pipe. Any new exhaust pipe routing required is stainless steel. All BraunAbility modified vehicles are Built to Trust using advanced engineering technology and software.
Where is the OEM 12V Battery located?
The 12V battery is positioned at the rear of the vehicle in the hatch area in the same location as the unmodified Toyota Sienna Hybrid.
Will BraunAbility be converting the AWD option?
BraunAbility does not convert an AWD option currently. We will maintain maximum floor space for ultimate wheelchair maneuverability in our Toyota Hybrid while offering the option of a foldout or infloor ramp system.
How does the BraunAbility Toyota Hybrid compare to the previous model in interior floor space?
BraunAbility maintained all the interior floor space and maneuverability appreciated in the previous Toyota conversion, while including the removal of the front driver and passenger seat for increased space and versatility.
Which features of the Toyota are disabled after conversion?
BraunAbility strived to maintain all OEM features after conversion, however at this time the Kick to Open feature has been disabled.
Did you retain the center console from Sienna?
BraunAbility retained the functional elements of the impressive center console but redesigned its shape to maximum space and maneuverability around the driver and front passenger positions.
What is the vehicle’s ground clearance?
BraunAbility achieved an impressive 5” ground clearance measured at the exhaust at the rear of the vehicle. The clearance to the main body structure (frame rail) is 6.5”, an improvement over the previous model.
Will the heated and ventilated seats remain functional when one seat is removed?
Yes, even after removing one of the front seats, the heated and ventilated seating functions will continue to operate for the remaining seat (assuming the heated/ventilated seating options are included in the vehicle).
Can the third-row seat three people, and does it include a child restraint system?
Certain Toyota trim levels will seat three comfortably in the rear seat of the vehicle. BraunAbility retains the child restraint system when the Sienna is equipped with this feature. Certain trim levels may require a seat bolster due to carrying weight, eliminating the middle seat position on the 3rd row. Please contact your BraunAbility dealer to verify the vehicle’s carrying capacity of the specific package.
Will the front seats have adjustable armrests?
Yes, both front driver and passenger seats have adjustable armrests.
