The best way to get into the vehicle with an electric or active wheelchair is varied and depends entirely on individual needs such as body size and wheelchair height, but also on the technical conditions. There are preferred solutions for PARAVAN customers, such as Christian, who absolutely wanted a vehicle solution with an underfloor ramp again - because it is easy to operate and because this solution offers him optimum headroom.
The underfloor ramp with air suspension was the first access solution developed by PARAVAN GmbH. Inspired by a key experience of the company founder Roland Arnold, which prompted him over 25 years ago to enable people with disabilities to enter the vehicle interior directly instead of being transported like "luggage" in the trunk. The aim was to give wheelchair users the opportunity to sit directly on the passenger side or, ideally, to drive their vehicle themselves in a wheelchair so that they could participate in life or work independently - the birth of PARAVAN GmbH.
Today, 25 years later, the solutions for wheelchair access to the vehicle are more varied and depend on the type of vehicle and the size of the user. Vans (e.g. VW T6.1/ Mercedes V-Class/ Hyundai STARIA or Ford Custom), with or without a lowered floor, generally use a lift system. The preferred solution is the cassette lift developed by PARAVAN. Depending on customer requirements, however, compact lifts, swivel lifts or linear lifts can also be used. In contrast to the cassette lift, the latter three variants are installed inside the vehicle. "Each solution has its advantages and disadvantages," says Joachim Glück, Head of Technical Consulting. He and his team support customers from vehicle selection to delivery. "The important thing is that the customer can get into the vehicle optimally and independently and has the necessary headroom and visibility."
Another option is to enter the vehicle from the rear, which is used in the VW Caddy Maxi or Ford Tourneo Connect, where the floor can be lowered from the A-pillar to the D-pillar. A relatively compact and maneuverable solution that offers the necessary headroom. The disadvantage: the second row of seats can be equipped with emergency seats. However, the trunk can no longer be used for luggage. One solution that partially compensates for the deficits is the installation of an internal folding ramp that allows access via the right-hand side door. For large wheelchairs, however, it can then become quite cramped when entering. Access is also possible on the driver's or passenger's side.
The underfloor ramp is still the solution often favored/requested by regular PARAVAN customers. The uncomplicated and, above all, quickly extendable solution, which was previously installed in the Chrysler or Lancia Voyager or also in the Kia Carneval, is still extremely popular with customers. "Unfortunately, this solution can only be implemented in the Chrysler Pacifica," regrets Glück. "Many new vehicle concepts no longer allow this installation." But even if the Chrysler is not the most fuel-efficient solution, many customers still do not want to do without these benefits. Especially as the vehicle offers very comfortable headroom, particularly for tall customers.
Just like 43-year-old Christian, who took delivery of his new Chrysler Pacifica. With this vehicle, he now has the perfect package for him. After retraining as an IT expert, he can now also make business trips and attend on-site appointments. In recent years, he has been driving a Kia Carneval, which also had an underfloor ramp. His new vehicle should also have this access option again. "The Chrysler with a side ramp was always my favorite and offers the necessary headroom". This allows him to drive his PARAVAN PR 50 directly in front of the steering wheel or on the passenger side. The wheelchair is anchored quickly and safely using the PARAVAN docking station. It is steered using the Space Drive driving and steering system. He operates the accelerator with a radial gas brake slider with his left hand. The mini steering wheel is steered with the right hand. He controls the vehicle's secondary functions using the PARAVAN Touch and voice control. Despite the long break and the many new features, Christian quickly familiarized himself with the vehicle. "Very good," he praises the steering, among other things. "Much more direct. I just have to get used to the new performance." What he already appreciates is the familiar drive-in via the underfloor ramp.