The Future of Mobility Vans

For decades, handicap vans have remained largely unchanged, with many companies offering a one-size-fits-all approach. These companies design standard models that, while functional, often fall short of addressing the unique needs of individuals with various mobility challenges. However, no two people are alike—especially when it comes to mobility.

People who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility often have specific preferences, and their requirements can vary widely. Some need a reliable daily driver, while others want a vehicle that supports long road trips, weekend adventures, or even specialized gear and equipment.

At ADF, we understand these needs better than most because we’ve been customizing mobility and handicap van conversions for over a decade.

We tailor each van conversion to meet the specific requirements of our clients, ensuring that every feature is personalized for maximum convenience, safety, and usability. This individualized approach is what sets us apart!

Top Features of a Custom Mobility Van Conversion for Accessibility

From our years of experience, here are the essential features that make a mobility van conversion not only accessible but also functional and comfortable for every user.

Wheelchair Lifts or Ramps

A wheelchair lift or ramp is essential for any accessible van conversion, enabling seamless entry and exit for wheelchair users. Here are some options that balance convenience and functionality:

• Under Vehicle Wheelchair Lift (UVL): The Braun UVL gets installed underneath the van completely. It remains out of sight when not in use, which maximizes interior space and maintains a clean look inside the van. With the touch of a button, the UVL extends to provide a stable platform for easy boarding, perfect for those who want functionality without compromising interior aesthetics.Since the lift remains outside of the van when  not in use, the rattles and noises associated with the lift also stay outside of the vehicle. Making for a more comfortable and quiet ride. 
• Super Arm Lift: The Super Arm Lift deploys directly from the van without needing to touch the ground. This means it works perfectly on rough terrain, snow, or uneven surfaces without any issues. Plus, it doesn’t affect the van’s ground clearance, so there’s no risk of debris, snow, or salt causing jams or damage during off-road use. Its cantilever design also allows one’s chair to clear a solid running board or sidestep outside of the van, which is a nice feature for non wheelchair users to enter and exit the van more easily. This style of lift provides maximum clearance of the van’s entry threshold, allowing us to build out the floor just a bit further and maximize the maneuverable space inside the van, which is optimal for independent users. 

• Interior Mount Lifts: Traditional interior mount lifts, like the Ricon Klear Vue, provide wheelchair users with options of entry through the sliding door or rear doors of the van. The flexibility of mounting location is ideal for users who have set routines or schedules and are familiar with the load in spacing available at these common locations. Since these lifts deploy from a higher mount point, they more easily clear curbs or small gaps. With all components mounted inside the van, there are no implications of ground clearance. More care is needed with this style of lift to ensure a rattle free experience while driving. 

• Portable Ramps: Portable, folding, ramps can be moved about as needed and provide universal access capability. Their portable design makes for more work to set up each time, their simplicity leaves little to fail. These ramps serve many purposes as they can be resituated to allow access up a small set of steps, or a crossing for puddles or areas of disrepair on the paths. The portability means that they will need to be carried around and set up as needed, which will require assistance from a caregiver; making them not a good option for independent wheelchair users.

Custom Seating Options

Seating flexibility is key for ensuring that wheelchair users and other passengers can ride comfortably. At ADF, we design flexible seating arrangements that allow users to configure the layout depending on their needs. Whether you need space for multiple passengers or extra room for equipment, we provide solutions that work for you.

We install Tie-downs or Restraint Systems that securely lock wheelchairs or scooters in place during transit, ensuring both safety and comfort. For those who drive their wheelchair van conversions, we offer Swivel and Sliding Seats that make transferring from a wheelchair into a standard vehicle seat easier and safer.

Sleeping Solutions

Many of our clients plan to use their mobility vans for long trips or as a camper. We’ve developed innovative sleeping solutions to accommodate this. Here are a few options we commonly install:

Adjustable Beds: Motorized or manually adjustable beds can be raised or lowered to suit the person’s needs.

Accessible Bunk Beds: In larger mobility vans, custom bunk beds with low heights or pull-down mechanisms can make the top bunk accessible to those with limited mobility, offering more space for sleeping during road trips or camping adventures.

Additional Key Features

Here are some additional features that enhance both the functionality and comfort of your conversion mobility van:

• Handicap-Accessible Bathrooms: If your van conversion includes a bathroom, we can install features such as wide doors, roll-in showers, transfer seats, grab bars, and low counters for sink access, ensuring that every aspect of the van is fully accessible.
• Climate Control Systems: Custom climate control that allows for separate temperature settings in the front and back of the van ensures that everyone is comfortable, including wheelchair users who may have different temperature sensitivities.
• Inverter for Powering Medical Devices: A built-in inverter can power essential medical equipment, such as ventilators or oxygen machines, ensuring reliable care while on the road.
• Accessible Kitchenette (in camper conversions): If you’re using your van for camping, we can install accessible countertops, low sinks, and pull-out shelves to make cooking and dining more convenient.
• Accessible Storage Solutions: From medical equipment to personal belongings, easily accessible storage units with pull-down shelves or drawers can make life easier for everyone.

Top 5 Reasons to Choose ADF for Your Mobility Van Conversion

Now that you know how crucial it is to have a van tailored to your specific needs, here are five reasons why ADF is the best choice for your custom mobility van conversion.

#1 – Customization is at the Heart of ADF

At ADF, we take pride in ensuring every mobility van conversion is uniquely tailored to meet your individual mobility requirements. Whether you need rear entry, wheelchair access, or custom seating layouts, our focus is on creating solutions that enhance your comfort, safety, and independence.

Our ability to adapt our designs to your lifestyle is what sets us apart from other companies that offer prefabricated wheelchair vans.

#2 – Decades of Expertise in Mobility and Accessibility

With years of experience in mobility van conversions and wheelchair accessible vehicle designs, ADF is a leader in the industry. While there are many prefabricated conversions available for vehicles like the Toyota Sienna and Dodge Grand Caravan, we specialize exclusively in custom conversions for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit vans.

#3 – High-Quality Craftsmanship and Innovation

Known for our exceptional craftsmanship, ADF designs and builds wheelchair accessible vans that are both durable and visually appealing. From flooring to cabinetry and accessibility features, every detail is crafted to the highest standards. We also stay at the forefront of industry trends, incorporating the latest technologies and materials into our conversions.

#4 – Mercedes-Benz Certified Expert Upfitter

As a Mercedes-Benz Certified Upfitter, ADF adheres to the strictest quality and safety standards. This certification ensures that every conversion maintains the original vehicle’s performance while adding customized features for mobility. We also offer flexible financing options that make bundling the purchase of your base vehicle and mobility conversion easy and affordable.

#5 – Full-Service, End-to-End Solutions

ADF provides end-to-end services, guiding you through every stage of the conversion process. From the initial consultation to delivery, we work closely with you to ensure that the final product meets your expectations. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent customer support, making the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Choosing the right mobility van conversion company is essential for ensuring that your van fits your specific needs. With ADF, you’ll receive a fully customized wheelchair accessible van that enhances your lifestyle, whether you’re using it as a daily driver or for long adventures across the United States.

Looking for a mobility van that’s truly built for you?

For years, ADF Sprinters has been redefining what a handicap van conversion can be, going beyond one-size-fits-all designs with fully customizable features that meet each user’s unique needs.

Whether you’re dreaming of a van that’s ready for everyday use or long road trips with accessible sleeping, storage, and even kitchen options, ADF has it covered. Dive into our latest blog, Choosing the Right Mobility Van Conversion Company, to explore how ADF is transforming the future of accessible travel. Click here to find out why choosing ADF could be the best decision for your mobility journey!