(www.vpgautos.com) The 2011 MV-1 model in red, with the long ramp deployed. The MV-1 also has a short ramp.
First Factory-Built Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Debuts
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JULY 26, 2010
VPG

The first designed, engineered and factory-built, wheelchair accessible car – the MV-1 – marks a major milestone for the 14 million American adults who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices that present a significant obstacle for routine activities such as traveling in a car.
"VPG is proud to be the first manufacturer to provide people with mobility issues with a purpose-built vehicle that provides ease of entry and exit, as well as a more comfortable ride," said Dave Schembri, CEO of VPG.
"For the millions of Americans of all ages and disabilities who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices routine travel presents a significant obstacle, even 20 years after the Americans With Disabilities Act became law," said NCIL Executive Director Kelly Buckland, who spoke at the event. "With the introduction of the MV-1, all of that can change."
The unveil was attended by Marc Buoniconti, president of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, a leading spinal cord injury research center that was co-founded by NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Nick Buoniconti after his son Marc sustained a spinal cord injury during a college football game. Marc and The Miami Project provided extensive input into the design of the MV-1.
"Our organization is pleased to have been so involved in the design input of this first-of-its-kind vehicle," said Marc Buoniconti. "For too long, wheelchair users have been shut out of the process, and any vehicle options to this point have been an afterthought – whereas this vehicle was designed from the ground up with this audience's needs at the forefront."
Starting later this year, the MV-1 will be built in the United States at the AM General assembly plant in Mishawaka, Indiana.
"At a time when the auto industry overall continues to struggle and the country is losing good manufacturing jobs, we are pleased to help create or save upwards of 1,000 jobs between direct and supplier positions nationwide," continued Schembri.
The vehicle features a deployable access ramp with a 1,200-pound weight capacity, a spacious 36-inch entryway, and a roomy interior that seats up to six people comfortably. The vehicle is also available with a manufacturer engineered and assembled compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling system option.
Consumers can go online to www.vpgautos.com and custom build their own MV-1.
About the MV-1
The ADA-compliant MV-1 is expected to go on sale in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2010 in two trim levels. Although final pricing has yet to be announced, the Base model is expected to be value priced under $40,000 and will include standard features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), an integrated deployable ramp, anti-slip floor and ramp surface, Q-Straint® Wheelchair Restraint Track System, and a 6-way adjustable commercial driver's seat. The well-equipped Deluxe model includes the standard features on the Base model, plus a telescoping power access ramp, rear window wiper, cruise control and cargo area floor trim package. Both models are equipped with a Ford 4.6L V8 engine and are available with either a traditional gasoline engine or the optional Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel system.
The MV-1 is available in five colors – arctic white, jet black, sterling silver, cherry red and midnight blue. Additional details regarding MV-1 specifications and available options can be found on www.vpgautos.com.
Watch a related video report: www.happynews.com/news/7262010/new-wheels