Find Your Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

The smallest wheelchair accessible vehicle offered by BraunAbility is typically the BraunAbility Chevrolet Traverse. The Traverse is a midsize SUV that BraunAbility has converted to be wheelchair accessible, making it one of the more compact options in their lineup while still providing ample space and comfort for wheelchair users. 

Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) are generally more expensive than standard vehicles due to the extensive and specialized modifications required to accommodate wheelchair users. These modifications, which include lowering the floor, installing ramps or lifts, and reinforcing the chassis, require specialized components and skilled labor, driving up costs. Additionally, the production volume of WAVs is lower, meaning manufacturers can't benefit from economies of scale.

Compliance with stringent safety and accessibility regulations further adds to expenses. Customization to meet individual needs, ongoing research and development for improved accessibility solutions, and the costs related to warranties, insurance, and after-sales support also contribute to the higher prices. Despite these costs, WAVs offer significant benefits in terms of mobility and independence, often justified by their long-term value and the potential availability of financial assistance programs. 

No one seems to agree on what to call our vehicles. Are they wheelchair vans? Or are they handicap vans? A wheelchair van makes the product sound as though the vehicle is made of wheelchairs, or that it is only made for wheelchair users, which is incorrect. The word “handicap” is a term that isn’t considered appropriate by many as a description of people with disabilities. This is called disability-first speak, and more people are moving toward a person-first language approach, as in, “a person with a disability” versus “a disabled person.” Some other names for our vans include WAV (an acronym for wheelchair accessible vans) lift vans, mobility vans, and conversion vans. 

There are a wide variety of wheelchair accessible vehicle options available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a minivan, a full-size van, an SUV, or a truck, you likely have more options than you think. Often, your existing vehicle can be converted to fit your mobility needs as well. 

A wheelchair accessible vehicle is one that has been modified by increasing the interior size of the vehicle and equipping it with a ramp or powered lift for entry by someone in a wheelchair. 

Selecting the best vehicle for a wheelchair user depends on that individual and their wants and needs. Wheelchair accessible vehicles come in a variety of types: minivan, full-size van, SUV, car, or truck. Our trained team of Mobility Specialists can work with you to find the option that is best for you and your needs.