VPG INTRODUCES VEHICLE DESIGNED FOR ACCESSIBILITY
A new vehicle designed by the Vehicle Production Group (VPG) from the ground up for wheelchair accessibility, the MV-1 was engineered specifically to improve transportation for everyone including wheelchair users and scooter users and is now available.
The MV-1 is the only vehicle that meets or exceeds the stringent vehicle guidelines of the Americans With Disabilities Act direct from the factory. There is no aftermarket conversion needed.
The MV-1 features an integrated access ramp with a 1,200 lb. weight capacity and has a spacious entryway and interior which seats up to six people.
The vehicle interior is large enough to allow wheelchair users or scooter users to easily enter and turn effortlessly so that the passenger can sit next to the driver.
The MV-1 was engineered according to the principles of universal design, which allow for the ease of accessibility for everyone. According to Jim Weisman of the United Spinal Association, the MV-1 “provides enough space for a wheelchair using passenger and an entire family at greatly reduced cost from an accessible van.”
According to VPG, the MV-1 has a rear door opening of 56 inches high and 36 inches across making it easy to get in and out. A low step-in height allows ambulatory passengers to simply walk inside the vehicle and sit down in seats that have been designed to accommodate all types of passengers.
In order to assure years of usage, VPG said the MV-1 is built like a truck, yet it rides like a car. With the MV-1’s body on frame vehicle architecture and independent rear suspension, the owner will enjoy years of durability and comfort.
The MV-1 was engineered to thrive on the streets of New York City and to navigate rough roads with ease. Weisman said that the MV-1 will “revolutionize paratransit. Instead of transit operators purchasing, operating, and replacing trucks, buses, and vans, they can employ private taxi companies to transport almost every paratransit customer at a much lower cost.”
“we’ve followed the development of this vehicle for the past several years and eagerly anticipate its production off the assembly line later this year.” Said Taxis for All Campaign founder Marvin Wasserman.
“The outside has been redesigned several times, but the interior has remained exactly the same. People in the community love it because it is relatively easy to get in and out and the wheelchair position is in what would ordinarily be the front passenger seat. It is also very comfortable as well, as a taxi should be.”
The MV-1 is also “green”, utilizing the Ford 4.6L V8 engine. It comes with either a standard gasoline or clean burning compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling system option. CNG produces up to 29 percent lower greenhouse gas emissions that comparable gasoline vehicles, and it’s also less expensive than gasoline. The CNG option is estimated to have a range of about 290 miles while the standard gasoline MV-1 has an estimated 350 mile range.
VPG is now offering consumers the chance to experience the MV-1 in person during this year’s Road Show Across America, which will travel to 25 cities and include as ADA 20th anniversary celebration.
They’ve launched a new interactive website that will list eh locations and dates for MV-1 vehicle displays.
VPG’s website also provides complete vehicle information and allows visitors to build their own MV-1 online. Production of the MV-1 will begin in the fourth quarter of this year in Mishawaka, Indiana.
For information visit www.vpgautos.com
http://www.vpgautos.com/experience-MV-1/mobility-vehicle-features