First Factory-Built Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle Hits the Market
By Koueiter, Michelle; Autoweek,Publication Date: October 19, 2011
Product review evaluates a vehicle that is specifically assembled to accommodate people in wheelchairs. The MV-1, or Mobility Vehicle 1, is a product of the Vehicle Production Group (VPG) and manufactured at the American Motors General plant in Indiana. According to its maker, the MV-1 offers more headroom and a bigger door opening than any conversion vehicle available. It has an integrated ramp and step-in feature and can accommodate 4 riders in wheelchairs as well as 4 other adults, along with luggage. The MV-1 was built to comply with the crash test and safety standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and includes a five-year, 75 thousand mile new vehicle warranty. In a brief test drive, the author found the vehicle to be comfortable and surprisingly powerful thanks to rear wheel drive and a 248 horsepower engine. Notable features of the base model MV-1 SE include antilock brakes, a deployable manual ramp with antislip surface treatment, antislip flooring, a wheelchair restraint track system, and a six way adjustable driver’s seat. The upgraded MV-1 DX model also includes a telescoping power ramp with lighting, a rear window wiper, cruise control, and a cargo area floor trim package.
Published by: Crain Communications Inc. (Website:http://www.crain.com/)
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