Accessible Minivans

Why Choose a Wheelchair Accessible Minivan?

For many families and individuals, a wheelchair accessible minivan is the ideal mobility solution. Minivans are easier to maneuver in urban environments, fit in standard parking spaces, and offer better fuel economy than full-size vans. With modern conversion technology, today's accessible minivans provide the same level of accessibility as larger vehicles — without sacrificing comfort or style.

Accessible minivans feature a lowered floor — typically 10 to 14 inches lower than a stock vehicle — which provides sufficient interior headroom for most power and manual wheelchairs without raising the roofline. The result is a vehicle that looks like a standard minivan from the outside but provides full wheelchair access inside.

Popular Models: Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica

Toyota Sienna Wheelchair Conversions

The Toyota Sienna is the most popular platform for wheelchair-accessible minivan conversions. Its standard all-wheel-drive system makes it a standout choice for drivers in Maryland who contend with winter road conditions. The Sienna's standard hybrid powertrain delivers excellent fuel economy — a significant advantage for high-mileage users.

BraunAbility and VMI both offer conversions on the Sienna platform, providing side-entry access with power in-floor ramps. The ramp stows completely flush with the floor when not in use, maximizing interior space and creating a level surface for wheelchair positioning.

Chrysler Pacifica Wheelchair Conversions

The Chrysler Pacifica (and its predecessor, the Dodge Grand Caravan) has long been a staple in the mobility vehicle market. The Pacifica's wider interior and tri-zone climate control make it comfortable for wheelchair users and able-bodied passengers alike. The Grand Caravan remains a popular pre-owned option due to its proven reliability and lower purchase price.

Conversion Partners

Every accessible minivan in our inventory is converted by an NMEDA-certified manufacturer:

Minivan vs. Full-Size Van: When Each Makes Sense

Both accessible minivans and full-size vans have important roles in the mobility market. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right vehicle for your situation:

• Choose a minivan if: You primarily drive in suburban or urban settings, you need a vehicle for one wheelchair user, you value fuel efficiency, or you want a vehicle that blends in with standard family vehicles.
• Choose a full-size van if: You transport multiple wheelchair users, you use a very large power wheelchair, you need maximum headroom for standing entry, or you provide group or medical transport.

Our mobility specialists at Apple Ford in Columbia, MD can help you evaluate both options side by side. We carry both full-size Ford Transit conversions and minivan conversions in inventory simultaneously, so you can compare them in person.

Ramp Types for Accessible Minivans

In-Floor Power Ramps

The in-floor power ramp is the premium option for minivan conversions. When stowed, the ramp folds into a pocket beneath the floor, keeping the floor completely flat and maximizing usable interior space. This design provides the cleanest look and the most headroom, as no ramp hardware protrudes into the cabin area when stowed.

In-floor ramps are standard on BraunAbility's conversions and available as an option on VMI models. They operate at the touch of a button and can handle power wheelchairs up to 750–800 pounds in most configurations.

Fold-Out Power Ramps

Fold-out ramps stow against the interior side wall of the vehicle when not in use. While they reduce some interior width when stowed (typically 4–6 inches), they are less expensive to manufacture and easier to service. Fold-out ramps are a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers and provide reliable, long-term performance.

Features to Look For in an Accessible Minivan

When evaluating accessible minivans, look beyond the basic conversion package and consider the following:

• Floor-to-ceiling height: Measured with the ramp deployed, this determines which wheelchairs can comfortably enter. Most modern conversions offer 56–58 inches of interior height after lowering.
• Tie-down system: Look for a four-point EZ-Lock or L-track system for secure wheelchair restraint while in motion.
• Ramp length and angle: Longer ramps create a gentler slope, which is important for power wheelchairs and users with balance concerns. Most quality conversions offer ramp angles of 8 degrees or less.
• Remote operation: Power ramps can often be operated by a remote fob, allowing the wheelchair user to deploy the ramp before transferring or rolling in.
• Seating flexibility: Consider how many additional passengers you need to accommodate and whether the second-row seating can be easily reconfigured.

Apple Ford Mobility Center carries accessible minivans with a variety of these feature combinations. We recommend scheduling a visit to our Columbia, MD location to test-load your wheelchair and evaluate which configuration works best for you.

Financing Your Accessible Minivan

Accessible minivans are eligible for the same financing programs as full-size vans, including VA Automobile Adaptive Equipment grants, Medicaid waiver funding, and traditional dealer financing. Apple Ford's mobility team can help you understand which programs you qualify for and assist with the application process.