Ford and BraunAbility introduced the first wheelchair accessible SUV at the DFW Auto Show last week – the Explorer MXV. This “unstoppable” vehicle is perfect for people with different lifestyles.
Ford Explorer MXV: The Braunability MXV – a converted Ford Explorer – is the world’s first wheelchair accessible SUV. The best-selling SUV for 25 years now gives wheelchair users the quality and dependability expected in the “unstoppable” spirit of an Explorer. Ford had an inspiring special guest, Jesse Billauer, who runs the Life Rolls On Foundation. He uses an Explorer MXV with the organization, which is dedicated to introducing wheelchair users to skating and surfing. He was paralyzed during a surfing accident. His love of the sport helped him create LifeRollsOn.Org.
BraunAbility MXV – available with Explorer base, XLT and Limited models – features patented sliding-door technology, removable driver and passenger seats, and a powered, lighted in-floor ramp. A sliding shifter and front seat base design provide for increased space, while an integrated key fob operates both door and ramp. There’s also an available tow package.
Interior space is maximized to create ample room for wheelchair navigation and comfort. Wheelchair users can drive the vehicle from a wheelchair or ride as a passenger.
Ford’s overall story at the Dallas Auto Show was about tremendous SUV growth. Over the next few years, Ford is introducing four new SUVs because they’re becoming much more popular. The remodeled 2017 Escape and the Explorer MXV will be their key vehicles.
2017 Escape: The new Escape gives SUV customers even more of what they want – more smart features to make their daily drive safer and easier, greater connectivity, two new EcoBoost engines and Auto Start-Stop Technology that saves fuel in heavy traffic. It’s also the first Ford with SYNC Connect – customers can unlock doors, start the engine, even locate their vehicle through a smartphone app.
“Virtually every surface a customer will touch is new, in design or material,” said Chris Mazur, Escape program manager. “In some cases, it’s the minor changes that have the greatest impact on driver or passenger comfort.”
Ford recorded 115,228 SUV sales at retail through the first two months of 2016, making for the best calendar year start for Ford SUVs in history – highlighted by a best-ever February.
Tammy Litke is a Dallas blogger, blogging since 2008. She loves to watch movies, play video games, spend time in the kitchen, and travel. Between recipes and reviews you’ll find many helpful and some just plain funny posts on her blog. Welcome, pull up a chair and stay for a while!
I’ve always wondered how families with new handicaps handle things. It makes sense that they would want to have their vehicle made accessible! That way the handicapped person can still be transported around without issue.
This is amazing, You have no idea what this means to someone who has a family member who is disables. It might be normal for them but to the people who are suffering, This is magical. Trust me I almost cried watching this. But now all I can dream of is buying this and wander with my son.