Van Conversion

Van Conversion for Mobility

If you need to transport passengers with mobility or medical needs, you’ll want a converted van. Van conversion takes a new or existing van and modifies it to make it accessible and comfortable for individuals with mobility impairments. The goal is to provide a safe and convenient way for people with disabilities to travel, go about their daily activities, and maintain their independence. Even though it sounds simple, converting a van for wheelchair access is complex process and requires specially engineered adaptations to ensure the finished product is easy to use and safe.

Types of Van Conversions

There are two main types of van conversions: rear-entry and side-entry. Rear-entry conversions modifying the rear of the van to create a ramp or lift for easy access, while side-entry modifications incorporate the side of the van to create a door or lift for easy access.

There are two different vehicle sizes that are great for conversion: personal use minivans and commercial full-size vans. Minivans support one wheelchair position where commercial vans can support multiple wheelchair positions. Both can accommodate rear or side entry options.

Paratransit Options

Wheelchair Lifts

Choose from a selection of major brands of wheelchair lifts for your full size and mini van, including Braun and Ricon.

Wheelchair Restraint Systems

Choose from a full line of Q’Straint and AMF Bruns manual wheelchair restraint systems as well as EZ-Lock and Q’Straint power restraint systems.

EasyPull Restraint System

Available on the rear entry Dodge Grand Caravan and Ford Transit Connect

Specialized Seating

Swivel seats, 6-way seats, and power transfer seat bases. Whether you want to drive or ride, the power transfer seat base will allow transfer from your wheelchair to the driver or passenger seat.

BraunAbility B&D Transfer Seat

The BraunAbility B&D Transfer Seat allows the vehicle seat to rotate to face the center of an accessible vehicle, allowing for easy transfers from the wheelchair into the driver or front passenger seats.

Driving Aids

Choose from a full range of driving aids (hand controls, steering knob, left foot gas pedal, key extensions, assist handles, etc.) through Sure Grip designed to accommodate the safe operation of a vehicle.

Benefits of a Van Conversion

Van conversions offer numerous benefits to those with mobility challenges. Caregivers will also appreciate:

• Increased independence and mobility
• Improved accessibility and convenience
• Enhanced safety and security
• Customization to meet individual needs and preferences
• Increased social and recreational opportunities

Financing and Funding Options

When it comes to purchasing your vehicle, we have financing options available for you. We offer competitive rates and a number of financing options to choose from. This all comes from our partner – Daimler Truck Financial – one of the most respected financial organizations in the commercial vehicle industry.

There are also various funding programs available through the Canadian and Provincial governments:

Canada Wide

• Premier’s Council on Disabilities: Medical Funding Assistance (Federal)
• Premier’s Council on Disabilities: Medical Funding Assistance (Provincial)
• Premier’s Council on Disabilities: Medical Funding Assistance (Other)
• Government of Canada: Disability Benefits
• Mobility Basics: Canadian Funding Resources

Additional funding information is available at Malley Industries

The Bus Centre Advantage

If you need a van conversion, you can trust The Bus Centre to provide you with a quality customer experience. We partner with Malley Industries, one of Canada’s largest manufacturers of adaptive vehicle conversions for persons with disabilities. If you’re still considering your options, we invite you to get in touch. Our bus experts can provide you with quality information to help you make an informed buying decision.