Category Archives: VA Boston

Toyota Sienna Wheelchair Van: Style

Toyota Sienna with VMI Northstar
•NEW – Access360 design with more space to enter and maneuver inside the mobility van
•NEW – Access360 design allows for more flexibility and ease of use
•Obstruction-free doorway allows easy entry/exit for able-bodied passengers
•Clean, uncluttered handicapped vehicle interior
•Greater safety in the event of a collision
•Less dirt and debris from in-floor ramp into wheelchair accessible vehicle interior
•Wider usable accessible wheelchair ramp surface
•No interference with factory seats or controls
•Full use of front passenger seat
•Obstacle-free front row floor
•Ramp stowed safely under floor in the event of a collision
•9″ more floor length than any other Toyota Sienna conversion on the market today

Toyota Sienna Specifications
•Door opening height – 57″
•Door opening width – 30.5″
•Interior height at center position – 61.8″
•Interior height at driver/passenger position – 60.5″ w/o sunroof and 58.25″ w/sunroof
•Length (from back of seat bases to kickplate) – 65.5″
•Overall floor length – 95″
•Floor width at B pillar – 61.5″
•Floor width at front doors – 60.3″
•Ramp length (angled ramp and transition plate) – 58.75″
•Usable ramp width – 30″
•Maximum floor drop – 14 7/8″
•Ramp angle with PowerKneel™ on – 8.5º
•Ramp capacity – 800lbs

Toyota Sienna with VMI Northstar only
•Ultra-low 8.0° accessible ramp angle
•800lb. wheelchair ramp capacity
•Sure Deploy allows users to use the ramp even in the event of complete power failure
•Manual secondary backup system for additional peace of mind

Toyota Sienna with Northstar AND Summit
•Full-power ramp and conversion
•FLEX Floor maximizes headroom & interior space for wheelchair maneuverability
•Patented independent rear suspension designed to preserve the ride quality and performance
•E-coated floor for maximum corrosion resistance
•NEW, ultra-reliable hydraulic PowerKneel system lowers the minivan to reduce ramp angle
•Seamless integration with the electronics prevents damage to vehicle/conversion
•Conversion control through Toyota keyfob and interior sliding-door switches
•Halo-lit, one-touch interior conversion button
•Ramp ON/OFF switch allows users to disable all conversion features for able-bodied passengers
•NEW lightweight, removable front seats are easier to install or remove
•NEW quick-release straps easily removes front seats in seconds
•Non-skid handicapped ramp surface
•Fully crash-tested and compliant with all government safety standards
•3-year/36,000-mile warranty

How to adapt your new or pre-owned vehicle to meet your needs after a stroke

How to adapt your pre-owned vehicle to meet your needs after a stroke

Easy Car Makeovers for Adaptive Driving

CAN I DRIVE AFTER A STROKE newenglandwheelchairvan.com

Driving after a stroke is often a major concern for survivor’s and their loved ones. It prompts many questions about ability, safety and vehicle options. Often times, the physical disadvantages that result from stroke can compromise a survivor’s ability to operate their vehicle.

Advances in the vehicle modification industry have introduced new driving controls that are giving independence back to stroke survivors that want to drive. They allow them to get back behind the wheel in their own vehicle to go where they want to go, when they want to go.

Innovative vehicle modifications such as hand controls, left-foot accelerators, lifts and mobility seating can transform your personal vehicle into a vehicle that give you more freedom.

Mobility equipment dealers strive to remain at the forefront of the vehicle modification industry by providing cutting-edge technology and a full selection of adaptable equipment for your pre-owned vehicle.

Hand Controls For Stroke Survivors with Limited Use of their Feet

Automotive Innovations is New England’s #1 hand control installation facility manufacturer of hand controls and driving aids for the disabled. Hand control systems are specifically designed to give drivers the benefit of controlling a vehicle with both hands on the wheel making for a safer, smoother driving experience.

Unlike other manual and or servo hand control installers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, we have the ability to offer a custom fitment to your vehicle and you, for everything from a Fiat 500 to a Lamborghini Aventador no one else has the master craftsman, machining equipment and facility capable of performing a custom installation the way we can.

Push Rock hand controls have a handle in a vertical position; accelerating by rocking back in an arching motion using the fingers and/or the palm. There are several additional options to choose from:

Spinner knob: Attached to the steering wheel to allow controlled steering with use of one hand.
Single Pin: As an alternative to the spinner knob, this hand control was designed for clients that cannot open their hand fully.
Tri Pin: Great for an independent driver. It requires minimal gripping strength and/or reduced wrist stability.
V-Grip: This attachment is intended for drivers with moderate gripping strength.
Steering Wheel Extension: This device is individually customizable, so you can pick a diameter and height that best suits your needs. The easily removable device is completely compatible with any OEM steering wheel.

Servo electronic mobility controls offers driving control products that are safe and provide piece of mind every time you are on the road.

Lever A gas/brake input with adjustable levels of force and travel from the full gas to the full brake position. It is designed for customers that have a wider range of motion and a larger effort level.
One handed steering and gas brake A input that you can steer that is available in a two-axis configuration for gas/brake and steering It has a adjustable range of motion and very low levels of force to operate. It is designed and custom build for each customers specific range of motion and abilities.
Wheel A steering input that can be adjusted to less than 2 oz of force at the proper orthotic position of 3 3/8” from center. It is also able to be adaptable for customers that have a wider range of motion.

Left-foot Accelerator

Automotive Innovations offers the best left foot gas pedals with unmatched installations. Left-foot accelerator are designed to offer a left foot gas pedal which acts exactly like your vehicle’s existing gas pedal. Our Left foot gas pedals are removable with features like a quick-release base so the entire assembly can be removed and re-installed quickly and easily.

Lifts for Stroke Survivors that use Wheelchairs or Walkers

Automotive Innovations can offer more solutions for the transportation of your mobility device than any other dealership in New England.

” Its worth the drive, I live in the western part of Massachusetts and will never trust my van with anyone other than Automotive Innovations. They have been taking care of me and my vans since 1996. When a company comes through for you time and time again whats that worth? For me it’s priceless and the drive is irrelevant.”

Chris P Whately, MA

Scooter & Wheelchair Lifts while are not always practical they do work in all types of vehicles. These fold-down wheelchair and scooter lifts make lifting and storing your manual folding wheelchair or scooter possible.

Mobility Seating

The mobility transfer seat is an innovative system for lower vehicles which can provide easer access to an automotive seat. The seat power rotates out over the doorsill, bridging the gap for a safe transfer onto the seat. These seats are not always practical for every type of vehicle

Our goal is to match your lifestyle and your vehicle with equipment that will deliver independence.

Finding a Dealer That’s Up to Standards

Hand controls, left-foot accelerator, lifts and mobility seating offers opportunities for the stroke survivor to regain their mobility freedom in their pre-owned vehicle. You have just found the best mobility dealer in all of New England that offers a ever evolving selection of adaptable equipment.

It is important to select a reputable dealer to provide the adaptable equipment and installation for your pre-owned vehicle.

Are they members of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) or another organization that has vehicle conversion standards?
Are they Quality Assurance Program (QAP) certified?
Do they provide ongoing service and maintenance?
Do they provide 24/7 emergency service?
Do they provide training on the adaptable equipment?
Can the equipment be transferred to a new vehicle in the future?

Adapting pre-owned vehicles provides stroke survivors with mobility freedom in the vehicle they love and are familiar with.

By: Jim Sanders, VMi New England

How to Buy a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle in New England and Save Time and Money

How to Buy a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle in New England and Save Time and Money

Maintenance is an inevitability with any vehicle, and the specialized parts of any wheelchair accessible vehicles can make finding a location for service and repairs difficult. This is not an issue with Vmi New England and Automotive Innovations. For over 25 years we have received specialized training in repairing and servicing wheelchair-accessible vehicles, wheelchair ramps and lifts, and any other accessory, no matter the model. A relationship with us can be the first step to maintaining a properly functioning vehicle.

A wheelchair accessible vehicle is a specialty vehicle and is different from your neighbor’s sedan. Purchasing online can make finding a repair and maintenance location a less straightforward process. A purchase from a Vmi New England and Automotive Innovations is a promise for maintenance at the same location (we have been in he same town for over 20 years).

VMi New England Wheelchair Showroom

No two people or wheelchairs are the same, and with that no two vehicles are the same. With the hundreds of options available for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, they can be made to fit any variety of needs. How do I know what options I want, what height I need my vehicle to be, or what preferences I have? Find out first hand what van or ramp combination fits you best. Come try a VMI Summit, a VMI Northstar Toyota Sienna 360 or VMI Honda Odyssey may fit you better than a BraunAbility Toyota with Quiet Drive and or the new BraunAbility Honda Odyssey?

Find out and see first hand why grey market online converted vans are not the value they might appear to be

Nothing wrong with this van according to several internet mobility experts

Online shopping limits the buyer to taking the word of the seller at face value, but at Vmi New England all of these options can be tried out firsthand.

It is important that an investment as big as a mobility vehicle is perfect for you, so it is a good idea to try out what fits your style best.

Vmi New England will work closely with you to help determine how you can qualify for the maximum amount of available manufacturer rebates as well as state & federal tax deductions. Both are excellent ways to save money, but the rules & requirements can be difficult to navigate if you don’t have experience applying for them. We’ve helped many customers receive these incentives and know exactly which steps you need to take to ensure the best chance of receiving them yourself. That level of service is hard to match online.

The internet is a fantastic research tool and can help you decide what vehicle is perfect for you, but no one vehicle is a one-size-fits-all match.

Come visit Vmi New England where everyday is a Abilities Expo we are just a short ride away from Boson and try all the best mobility vehicles available out personally to make sure it is the perfect one for you.

It is your life, your money, and you should get a vehicle that comes with great service, guaranteed maintenance, and fits like a glove.

Need some information on how to make your vehicle wheelchair accessible or upgraded with the latest and most convenient features?

info@newenglandwheelchairvan.com

508-697-6006

2012 Honda Odyssey Information · For Sale

1 Reply

Our New 2012 Honda Odyssey EXL Mobility minivan has a New VMI Northstar conversion

Additional Information

• 11 miles
• 3.5L V6 EFI SOHC 24V
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• MPG City/Hwy: 18 city/27 hwy

Pictures

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Honda Odyssey with VMI Northstar Conversion

To satisfy our customers’ needs for additional interior space and a clean, obstruction-free accessible vehicle interior, VMI pioneered the development of the Northstar in-floor wheelchair ramp system for the Honda Odyssey minivan. After almost two decades of refinement, the Northstar remains the most technologically advanced handicap ramp system on the market. Instead of taking up space inside the handicap vehicle, the Northstar wheelchair ramp simply rolls out from beneath the floor. When one considers the advantages of the Northstar in-floor wheelchair ramp system, there is no question why the Northstar is far and away VMI’s best-selling product.

Description
• Maximum interior space for wheelchair maneuverability
• Obstruction-free doorway allows easy access for passengers
• Reduced accessible van conversion wear
(no need to deploy mobility ramp for able-bodied passengers)
• Clean, uncluttered handicapped vehicle interior
• Less dirt and debris from ramp into accessible vehicle interior
• Wider usable accessible ramp surface
• Easy access to all interior buttons, handles, and switches
• Full use of front passenger seat
• No squeaking or rattling from wheelchair ramp
• Ramp stows safely under floor in the event of a collision
• Deployable on curbs up to 10” in height

Specifications
• Door opening height – 55″
• Door opening width – 30.75″
• Wheelchair Ramp length (angled ramp and transition plate) – 59″
• Ramp length (distance ramp from mobility vehicle) – 43″
• Usable Handicap Ramp width – 30″
• Overall floor length – 91.5″
• Length (from back of seat bases to kickplate) – 61.75″
• Floor width at B pillar – 60″
• Floor width at front doors – 60.5″
• Interior height at center position – 60″
• Interior height at driver’s position – 57.25″ without sunroof

Standard Features
Honda Odyssey with VMI Northstar only
• Ultra-low 8.0° accessible ramp angle
• 750lb. wheelchair ramp capacity
• Manual secondary backup system for additional peace of mind
• Sure Deploy backup system allows users to stow or deploy the mobility ramp van conversion even in the event of complete power failure

Honda Odyssey with Northstar AND Summit
• Full-power ramp and conversion
• 12.75” drop FLEX Floor maximizes headroom & interior space for wheelchair maneuverability
• Patented independent rear suspension designed to preserve ride quality & performance
• E-coated floor for maximum corrosion resistance
• NEW ultra-reliable hydraulic PowerKneel system lowers the van to reduce ramp angle
• Seamless integration with electronics prevents damage to vehicle/conversion
• Conversion control through Honda keyfob and interior sliding-door switches
• Halo-lit, one-touch interior conversion button
• Ramp ON/OFF switch allows users to disable all conversion features for guest drivers, valets, car wash attendants, etc., and open sliding doors for able-bodied passengers without deploying the ramp
• NEW lightweight, removable front seats are easier to install or remove
• NEW quick-release straps allow users to remove front seats in seconds without removing plastic covers or searching for handles/pedals beneath the seat
• Non-skid handicapped ramp surface
• Fully crash-tested and compliant with all government safety standards
• 3-year/36,000-mile warranty

Optional Features
• Durafloor (rubberized flooring) closely matched to the existing Honda Odyssey interior

Tips for Buying a Wheelchair Van / Mobility Vehicle Online

Can you buy a mobility vehicle online?
Yes. The question, however, is how to buy a vehicle appropriate for your needs, compliant with industry regulations and standards, and one with which you will be satisfied in regards to future service and warranty.

What do state laws say about the online purchasing process?
Some states have specific laws concerning selling a vehicle across state lines. These laws are designed to protect the consumer, so check with legal counsel regarding the laws in your state.

Will I ever personally meet a representative from an Internet seller? Will they provide references?

Probably not. Most Internet sales companies do not usually have regional sales representatives. You’ll be assigned an “in house” sales rep who will assist you but with the lack of personal interaction, they may not be able to fully assess your needs. By choosing a local seller, you can personally meet individuals who have purchased and used the services of your local retailer.

How would I obtain a license tag for a van I purchased online?

You will be able to go to your local tag office and purchase a permanent license tag. There may be a period of time when you cannot use your vehicle as temporary tags are usually not valid except within the state they are issued. Check with your local department of motor vehicles to verify.

How would I obtain a title for a van I purchase out of state?

An out of state Seller who is located in a state other than the state you reside in probably can’t obtain a title for you in your name. The seller may simply provide the title to you at the time of delivery. You would then be required to take the title to your local tag (DMV?) office and transfer it (for a fee) to your name. You should be very cautious about the titling process. Titles are complex and errors can occur. Correcting a title error is a time consuming and often complex task. Knowing the origin of your vehicle and title is extremely important.

If my van’s mechanical systems fail while I own it, who is responsible?

This is a question of warranty and depends on the OEM warranty and the warranty provided by the vehicle modifier. A more significant issue is failure of a vehicle system resulting in bodily injury or property damage. In this case, the vehicle modifier should have what is called “product liability insurance”. This insurance covers any damages to property or injury that might occur as the result of defects, which are the responsibility of the modifier. Without this coverage, the vehicle owner has no one to turn to for responsibility. Make sure to request a certificate of product liability insurance. Vehicle sellers also have what is called “garage keepers insurance” to cover the work they perform. NMEDA dealers carry both types of coverage.

If my van is involved in an accident or stolen after I have purchased it but is still in the care of the online mobility dealer, who is responsible for the damage or loss?
The answer depends on who has what insurance. So make sure that your insurance starts upon your purchase even if you have not yet received the vehicle. It is a good idea to request a proof of insurance from the Internet seller. Most reputable vehicle dealers have what is called Garage Keepers Liability Insurance. If they are liable for the loss or damage, this insurance should cover the cost. Sometimes there is a question as to whose insurance is primarily responsible – the Internet seller’s, the trucking company’s or yours.

What if I have substantial problems with a vehicle I purchase online?

Most states have “lemon law” statutes that address defective vehicles. However, YOUR state’s lemon law may not apply if the van was not purchased in that state. Confer with legal counsel about this question. Aside from lawsuits, in many situations where there is a conflict, personal contact and established relationships help resolve the problem. In the case of on-line purchasing, you may never personally meet an individual from the Internet seller. See the section on Service & Warranty.

How will I know that the vehicle I purchase online will be properly converted and fit the needs of my disability?
Very important question. You really will not know until the vehicle is delivered to you. Every vehicle is different and mistakes can occur. Also, without the Internet seller meeting you personally and you having the ability to “test” the vehicle, there is no way to fully ensure that you or your loved one will properly fit in the vehicle and be able to use it as you desire. Make sure in advance that you have the right to refuse delivery of the vehicle and receive a full refund if, upon delivery, you do not like the way the van fits your needs; it fails to meet your reasonable expectations; or it does not match the description provided by the Internet seller.Come try out all the best wheelchair vans ever built at the oldest and best equipped Mobility Dealership in all of New EnglandCome and meet our all star cast of Veteran Mobility Ambassadors where everyday is a Abilities Expo just a little south of Boston at VMi New England in Bridgewater, MA