Tag Archives: vmi

Benefits of Owning an Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Safety
Safety is a universal concern for people with disAbilities and their caregivers. Many caregivers experience chronic back and joint pain from years of wheelchair lifts. And far too often there are stories of people fearful of loading and unloading their wheelchairs. Mobility vehicles are designed with a dedication to safety. Not only do ramp systems remove the liability, wear and tear and exhaustion of a lift, but brands like VMI adhere to the safety standards and qualifications of original equipment manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, Chrysler and Dodge.

A vehicle conversion from a company like VMI must maintain and provide the same safety ratings, post-conversion, as it did when the original model was created. That means collision safety and design is held to a very high standard. So there’s simply no reason to risk your personal safety or the livelihood of your passengers in an outdated vehicle.

Independence
If the daunting process of wheelchair lifts and transports kept you from leaving home in the past or the frustration of coordinating shuttles and third party transportation limits your lifestyle, look no further.

Mobility vehicles empower opportunity and independence. Frankly, when transportation is a possibility  rather than a limitation, the world gets a whole lot larger. Independent wheelchair users with reliable mobility vehicles hold the power to call the shots on their own life. They can drive where they need to, how they want to, when they want to. A mobility vehicle isn’t just a mechanism to take you from point A to B; A mobility vehicle is an entryway to possibility.

Increased Space and Flexibility
Most modern mobility vehicles feature side-entry and front door benefits which allow an array of seating arrangements and interior flexibility. With such added space, nearly any wheelchair — even power chairs — can fit in the cabin while still leaving room for the rest of the family.

Vehicles such as VMI’s Toyota Sienna Access360 have been engineered to promote a full range of motion and maneuverability for power chairs inside the vehicle, eliminating the need to hastily rearrange and remove seats for transports. Obstruction-free doorways and head clearance also pave the way for an enjoyable transition to and from the vehicle.

Simplicity and Ease-of-Use
Whether you are a caregiver or an independent wheelchair user, mobility vehicles have practical answers.

Through the addition of manual ramp systems and automated, in-floor ramp technology, transportation doesn’t have to remain a daily hassle.  Life often throws bigger dilemmas our way. Mobility vehicles make sure transportation isn’t one of those.

The Northstar E by VMI is a great example of a vehicle that was engineered with simplicity and ease-of-use at the forefront of its design. Caregivers can easily remove the vehicle’s ramp system without physical strain or contemplation. The process is intuitive and quick. Loading and unloading a van can be easily accomplished in a matter of minutes without sacrificing time or energy for the caregiver and loved one.

Mobility vehicles can even be outfitted with aftermarket additions such as remote start and keyless entry to  further simplify the transportation situation for independent wheelchair users and caregivers.

2014 Star Spangled Salute Winner Announced

Congratulations to the winner of the 2014 Star Spangled Salute – Susan Kirsch of Washington!
We thank you for your service!

2014 Star Spangled Salute Winner Announced - Susan Kirsch

Susan Kirsch served in the Air Force and was one of roughly 2,000 disabled veterans who entered the Star Spangled Salute contest. Thanks to VMI and the Toyota Motor Corporation, she will be receiving a 2015 Toyota Northstar Access360 wheelchair van. Susan uses a power wheelchair and has a son that could also benefit from their new accessible van. She’s excited that her new van will simplify their many trips to and from the doctors that are necessary to their care.

The Star Spangled Salute is just one celebration in honor of VMI’s daily dedication to the men and women who have served. From its specialized team of Veteran Advocates and veteran financing, to special partnerships with the VA and beyond. Through reliable products and functional design, VMI’s fleet of mobility vehicles achieves independence and freedom for veterans, independent wheelchair users and their families.

“We are so fortunate to live in the United States and experience the freedoms so many like Susan Kirsch have served for,”  Doug Eaton,VMI’s CEO said. “Veterans Day and our Star Spangled Salute contest are amazing opportunities to honor our deserving veterans, but VMI is committed to empowering these incredible individuals and their loved ones every day of the year.”

“The buzz surrounding this year’s Star Spangled Salute contest has been exciting,” added Mark Oldenburg, Toyota’s National Fleet Marketing, Mobility and Strategic Planning Manager. “We’re honored to show our appreciation for those who’ve bravely served our country in the military with this program. I truly look forward to delivering a new Toyota Sienna with a VMI Northstar conversion to the winning veteran.”

Click here to watch the big announcement!

Benefits of Owning an Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle

Safety
Safety is a universal concern for people with disAbilities and their caregivers. Many caregivers experience chronic back and joint pain from years of wheelchair lifts. And far too often there are stories of people fearful of loading and unloading their wheelchairs. Mobility vehicles are designed with a dedication to safety. Not only do ramp systems remove the liability, wear and tear and exhaustion of a lift, but brands like VMI adhere to the safety standards and qualifications of original equipment manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, Chrysler and Dodge.

A vehicle conversion from a company like VMI must maintain and provide the same safety ratings, post-conversion, as it did when the original model was created. That means collision safety and design is held to a very high standard. So there’s simply no reason to risk your personal safety or the livelihood of your passengers in an outdated vehicle.

Independence
If the daunting process of wheelchair lifts and transports kept you from leaving home in the past or the frustration of coordinating shuttles and third party transportation limits your lifestyle, look no further.

Mobility vehicles empower opportunity and independence. Frankly, when transportation is a possibility  rather than a limitation, the world gets a whole lot larger. Independent wheelchair users with reliable mobility vehicles hold the power to call the shots on their own life. They can drive where they need to, how they want to, when they want to. A mobility vehicle isn’t just a mechanism to take you from point A to B; A mobility vehicle is an entryway to possibility.

Increased Space and Flexibility
Most modern mobility vehicles feature side-entry and front door benefits which allow an array of seating arrangements and interior flexibility. With such added space, nearly any wheelchair — even power chairs — can fit in the cabin while still leaving room for the rest of the family.

Vehicles such as VMI’s Toyota Sienna Access360 have been engineered to promote a full range of motion and maneuverability for power chairs inside the vehicle, eliminating the need to hastily rearrange and remove seats for transports. Obstruction-free doorways and head clearance also pave the way for an enjoyable transition to and from the vehicle.

Simplicity and Ease-of-Use
Whether you are a caregiver or an independent wheelchair user, mobility vehicles have practical answers.

Through the addition of manual ramp systems and automated, in-floor ramp technology, transportation doesn’t have to remain a daily hassle.  Life often throws bigger dilemmas our way. Mobility vehicles make sure transportation isn’t one of those.

The Northstar E by VMI is a great example of a vehicle that was engineered with simplicity and ease-of-use at the forefront of its design. Caregivers can easily remove the vehicle’s ramp system without physical strain or contemplation. The process is intuitive and quick. Loading and unloading a van can be easily accomplished in a matter of minutes without sacrificing time or energy for the caregiver and loved one.

Mobility vehicles can even be outfitted with aftermarket additions such as remote start and keyless entry to  further simplify the transportation situation for independent wheelchair users and caregivers.

VMI’s End Of 2014 Sale!

VMI's End Of 2014 Sale!

Get up to $3,000.00 in rebates on new 2014 Toyota and Honda VMI Conversion Minivans

This Deal is Limited to the following Vehicle Conversions:

  • New 2014 Honda Odyssey Northstar Conversion
  • New 2014 Honda Odyssey Summit Conversion
  • New 2014 Toyota Sienna Northstar Conversion
  • New 2014 Toyota Sienna Summit Conversion

Promotion Timeline:
The Promotion Started on Oct. 13, 2014
The Promotion expires on Dec. 31, 2014

The Possible Rebates Include:

VMI's 2014 Year-End Sale -- Possible RebatesVMI also offers a Rebate for disabled veterans, The Operation Independence Rebate, which is for $1,000.00

Terms and Conditions:
Final rebate amount is subject to dealer participation. Promotion runs from 10/13/14 through 12/31/14. Retail delivery must be made between 10/13/14 and 12/31/14, no exceptions. VMI will contribute $1,000.00 end user rebate on a new 2014 Honda or a new 2014 Toyota Northstar/Summit conversion minivan. Rebate offer is not applicable toward the purchase of Toyota Northstar E360. Rebate will be issued from VMI after retail delivery. Dealer must fax completed form to VMI at 602-304-3290 within 10 days of retail delivery. This rebate offer cannot be combined with any other offer except VMI Operation Independence Rebate. Restrictions apply. Promotion is subject to change without notice.

**VMI Mobility Dealer must buy replacement 2014 Honda or Toyota from VMI PDN inventory for end user to be eligible for the $1,000 VMI rebate. Dealer stipulations apply for rebate eligibility from VMI. Replacement VIN must be supplied when rebate form is submitted and is subject to verification.

*Participating dealers only.

***Honda or Toyota mobility rebate must meet eligibility requirements for Honda or Toyota conversion minivan purchases.

Have You Entered the E-Venture Contest Yet?

Have You Entered the E-Venture Contest Yet?

Most customers test drive a wheelchair accessible vehicle before purchasing it.

Some lucky customers will have a chance to test drive a brand new VMI Dodge Grand Caravan Northstar E for 30 days… FOR FREE!

Will it be you? See contest details below:

About The Contest

  • Win a VMI Northstar E wheelchair van to use free for 30 Days.
  • VMI gives you $300 to spend on an adventure of the winners choice
  • Receive a free digital camera for you to document your time with the Northstar E then keep the video camera for yourself.
  • Monthly winners will drawn throughout the year.

Important Dates

  • Start Date: May 15, 2014
  • End Date: Dec. 31, 2014
  • First Draw: July, 2014
  • Last Draw: Dec, 2014

Terms & Conditions
The VMI Northstar E-venture campaign is active from May 15, 2014 to December 31, 2014.

Winner will be drawn and announced on a monthly basis from July, 2014 to December, 2014. Winner will receive 30-days free use of a Dodge Grand Caravan with the VMI Northstar E Conversion; no exceptions will be made.

  • Winners must abide by the rental policies of their local dealer and state. . .
  • In accordance with rental agreements, insurance coverage for liability, collision and comprehensive insurance must cover full vehicle reimbursement for the term of use.
  • Must comply with daily/monthly mileage-use limits
  • Must maintain standard of care for vehicle as stated in rental agreement
  • Must return vehicle in accordance with rental agreement
  • Additional conditions may apply
  • Winners will have up to 120 days from the date of notification to begin their 30-day free use period.
  • The maximum amount allowable for the E-venture is $300, which is based on $75/person for a family of four.
  • Payment for the E-venture will be dependent upon the event selected
  • Payment may be provided in the form of a pre-paid credit card
  • VMI may purchase tickets/passes for the adventure (e.g. amusement park, sporting event, concert, etc.) for the winner
  • VMI may provide reimbursement to winner for receipts submitted
  • A free digital video camera will be provided for documenting your adventures and day-to-day mobility. The digital camera is a gift for winners to keep.
  • Winners will be required to share a minimum of five minutes of video footage per week to be posted on VMI corporate and dealer websites and social pages. Failure to provide video footage will be cause for termination of 30-day free van-use period and full reimbursement of any funds provided for the E-venture.
  • The first drawing will be held in July, 2014, and one lucky winner will be drawn every month through the end of the year, December 2014.
  • Winners will be required to sign an agreement of terms and conditions.

No purchase necessary. Valid in the United States only. Limit one entry per household. Entries may be made at VMI’s Website or by calling 855-VMI VANS.

If the winner purchases a VMI wheelchair van prior to being selected as a winner of the Northstar E-venture, they can elect to be reimbursed $1800 (estimated value of winnings). Reimbursement will be coordinated between VMI and the winner directly if the vehicle was purchased prior to the winner being announced.

Offer is not valid on any added accessories. Winner is responsible for the payment of applicable taxes and registration fees. Prize must be claimed within 120 days of being notified of winning and is non-transferable. No exceptions will be made.

Additional Terms & Conditions may apply.