50 Years of Engineering Independence
Celebrating the past, present and future of Mobility Freedom
What started a project between Ralph Braun and his father in their garage has evolved over the last five decades to become a transformative mobility company that has brought independence to millions. This year marks our 50th anniversary, and we’re celebrating by both looking back at how far we – and mobility transportation – have come and looking forward to our bold future.
BraunAbility Timeline
- 1962
- 1966
- 1970
- 1973
- 1984
- 1991
- 1994
- 2011
- 2013
- 2022
Ralph Braun builds his first motorized scooter with the help of his father.
The world’s first wheelchair accessible vehicle is born when Ralph equips an old Post Office Jeep with a hydraulic lift and homemade hand controls.
After Chrysler introduces its first full-sized van, Ralph makes it accessible with his first wheelchair lift, a precursor to his revolutionary Lift-A-Way wheelchair lift.
The Braun Corporation, officially incorporated the prior year, develops its first raised-top, raised-door van conversion.
As the demand for accessible transportation in the United States soars, The Braun Corporation invests in new manufacturing technologies.
Shortly after the minivan is born, the lowered-floor minivan is engineered. Named the Braun Entervan, the groundbreaking vehicle quickly becomes the company’s flagship product.
A new vehicle assembly manufacturing center opens, housing production lines for the Entervan and paratransit vehicles.
Now branded as BraunAbility, the company makes several strategic acquisitions to broaden its portfolio, giving consumers the widest choice of accessible transportation options in the industry.
Ralph Braun passes away at the age of 72, leaving behind a hand-selected leadership team and dedicated staff who carry his vision and values into the company’s bold future.
BraunAbility remains the global leader in accessible transportation solutions, serving consumer and commercial markets worldwide.
Featured 50th Anniversary Articles
50th Anniversary Vision Series
50th Anniversary Featured Videos
BraunAbility partnered with Servants at Work (SAWs) to build 50 ramps in 50 days to give back to the communities where its employees live and work. Watch this video to see a team come together to construct a new ramp.
BraunAbility is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary by building 50 ADA-accessible wheelchair ramps for individuals who otherwise do not have a safe way to get out of their homes. Watch this interview with Inside Indiana Business to learn more about how we innovate mobility solutions and give back within our communities.
BraunAbility and the LENN Foundation partnered to award four Turny Evo seats to families with a child who has cerebral palsy. We surprised our finalists via a Zoom call and captured their excitement when they learned they were winners!
