Hybrid vehicles are not new to the automotive industry, however wheelchair accessible hybrids are new for 2021. The all-new 2021 Toyota Sienna is available in a Hybrid model featuring a 2.5-liter 4 cylinder gas engine paired with two electric motors producing 243 horsepower with 36 MPG expected. VMI, BraunAbility and FMI have all announced wheelchair accessible conversions being released in 2021 on the new Toyota Sienna. Chrysler Pacifica currently offers a Hybrid Chrysler Pacifica but we have not heard any formal announcement from BraunAbility, FMI or VMI that they are planning on building the hybrid model from Chrysler to be wheelchair accessible.
BraunAbility and VMI have partnered with Toyota Mobility for over a decade. Both have worked together on adapting Toyota vehicles to meet the needs of customers relying on mobility devices such as scooter and wheelchairs. Both BraunAbility and VMI have announced their release of the Hybrid Sienna wheelchair accessible conversion. The previous Toyota Sienna received its power from a 3.5L V6 gas engine with EPA ratings in the low to mid 20's on fuel efficiency. Going to a Hybrid design, Toyota expects to get the MPG up to 36 miles per gallon. Rest assured that not only can you expect better fuel economy but also improved ride quality, reduce road noise and offer more spacious interiors for wheelchair maneuverability than ever before.
Available since 2017, Chrysler has been the only option available in the minivan hybrid segment until now. This model however has not been available to convert to be wheelchair accessible by BraunAbility, VMI, Rollx or FMI. Currently, these manufacturers only convert the gas model which is a 3.6V with a combined rating of 22 MPG. Compare this to the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid that has an estimated combined rating of 82 MPG sure makes wheelchair and scooter users wish the Pacifica Hybrid was wheelchair accessible. None of the manufacturers who convert these high tech vehicles to be wheelchair accessible have announced that they have plans to do so, however our guess is they will in the coming months as the automotive market continues to switch to electric and hybrid vehicles.
My professional background stems from non-profit marketing and fundraising for a large children’s cancer hospital. Every day I was able to make connections and relationships for kids and their families going through devastating times. From securing small donations to large corporate support, it was all about providing hope that one day doctors and researchers would find a cure. It was truly an honor to be a part of something so important.
Just this past year, I came to work alongside my family for BLVD.com, a website dedicated to offering the latest information and resources for people needing mobility products. This was a dream come true for me as I have always wanted to combine more time with my family while still helping others. Our family has been in the mobility industry for over 35 years with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for people with mobility issues. This is the spirit behind BLVD and what I am most excited about sharing in my blog.
I love meeting new people and have found that volunteering is the best way to learn more about others and myself. Coffee keeps me going as do walks my pup "Kirby" and most of all being with family and friends. I invite you to check out my blog to learn more about how "together we can move through life better!"
