Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Information
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Full-Size Wheelchair vans, particularly models like the Tempest, are designed to provide maximum space and comfort, accommodating more passengers and larger wheelchairs or mobility devices. These vans, with advanced features such as hydraulic lifts and spacious interiors, offer enhanced accessibility and ease of travel for individuals with mobility challenges. The Full-Size Wheelchair Van is not only a solution for personal use but also serves efficiently in commercial sectors like community transport, medical facilities, and assisted living centers.
Introducing the Ram Promaster, a full-size wheelchair-accessible van with a Tempest, Luxury Conversion.
Fuel efficient, roomy, and loaded with amenities! Available in two sizes, Tempest X (Standard Roof Height) and Tempest XL (Raised Roof).
Both the Tempest X and XL full-size wheelchair vans are available with several different types of commercial-grade wheelchair lifts. The type of lift used is based on your exact needs. Lifts are available in 800 to 1000 lbs. capacities.
Most lift types are mounted inside the passenger side doorway, or you can use a UVL (Under Vehicle Lift) that stows & deploys from under the vehicle.
NOTE: Use of UVL will reduce available ground clearance. You can see a video of both lift types at the bottom of this page.
The Tempest X and Tempest XL model feature luxurious accommodations not found in a traditional minivan, from a supple leather interior to mood lighting to an optional entertainment system. The Tempest full-size wheelchair van conversion makes traveling in style a delight and a breeze.
The interior accommodations of the Tempest XL accessible van brings the luxuries of home along for the ride.
The Tempest XL is built on the 159″ Ram Promaster chassis and features 530 cu. ft. of cargo space. The door opening height is 68 inches.
Equipped with a large, 4-person rear bench seat that folds flat, you can bring along the whole family for the ride!
ADDITIONAL FEATURES INCLUDE:
PROS:
CONS: Limited Availability.
In the Tempest X, accommodations fall nothing short of those in the Tempest XL. The most significant difference between the two is the height of the roof & door opening.
The Tempest X is built on the 136″ Ram Promaster chassis, which is only six inches longer than the Dodge Grand Caravan but feels much larger.
The door opening height on the Tempest X is 58 inches and features 353 cu. ft. cargo space in the rear.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES INCLUDE:
PROS:
CONS: Limited Availability.
The most common type of wheelchair van is built using a minivan chassis. This type of handicap vehicle works well for most. However, there are some wheelchair users, families, and caregivers who find the size and functionality of the minivan just don’t work for their situation. They need something larger. That’s when a full-size wheelchair-accessible van becomes an option.
So what is different? First off, there is a noticeable size difference. A full-size handicap-accessible van has much more space needed for larger wheelchairs, additional passengers & their cargo. Second, and this is a big one, because of their size and height off the ground, full-size wheelchair vans don’t use a wheelchair ramp system. Instead, a full-size handicap van must use a commercial-grade wheelchair lift for entering & exiting. Third, since a lift is being used instead of a ramp, most, if not all, full-size wheelchair vans are only designed to be operated by those other than the wheelchair user. Meaning a wheelchair user can never travel alone.
However, this area is a little gray. While not very likely, there are some circumstances where a wheelchair user could operate the lift and drive the vehicle, thus traveling alone. It is technically possible to use a set of automatic door openers and a driver’s transfer seat where the wheelchair user can transfer and drive the vehicle using hand controls. However, most wheelchair users who can drive and travel alone tend to opt for the minivan or SUV conversion as a larger vehicle is not necessary.
