World’s First-Ever Wheelchair-Accessible SUV – BraunAbility MXV – On Display at 2016 NYC Auto Show
NEW YORK CITY, NY (PRWEB) March 21, 2016 -- The world’s only volume production wheelchair-accessible SUV will be on display in the Ford Motor Company booth at the 2016 New York International Auto Show.
Ford Motor Company and BraunAbility joined forces to create the BraunAbility MXV™, a wheelchair-accessible SUV that gives wheelchair users the quality and dependability of a BraunAbility mobility vehicle, and the adventurous, “unstoppable” spirit of an Explorer SUV.
“We’re thrilled that the Explorer name is connected to such a highly respected brand like BraunAbility,” said Omar Odeh, Ford marketing manager. “Explorer has always been associated with helping people go places they otherwise could not, and the BraunAbility MXV furthers that reputation.”
The BraunAbility MXVTM features patented sliding-door technology, removable driver and passenger seats, and a powered, lighted in-floor ramp. Other features include a sliding shifter for increased space, a space-saving front seat base design, integrated key fob that operates both door and ramp, and 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. Notable dimensions include:
• 55-inch usable side door opening height
• 28-1/2-inch usable ramp width
• 58-inch interior height (vehicle center)
• 59-inch interior height (driver/passenger position)
• 55-inch interior floor length behind front seats
• 59-1/2-inch interior width at B pillars
“Our customers are very excited to have a mobility option that reflects their individuality,” said Nick Gutwein, BraunAbility president and CEO. “For us, the Ford Explorer was the obvious choice. It’s an iconic American vehicle that reflects the ultimate in independence and freedom.”
Featuring a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the BraunAbility MXVTM delivers the performance and capability Explorer drivers have embraced for years, including an EPA-estimated rating of 17 city mpg, 24 highway mpg and 20 combined mpg. Actual mileage will vary. The MXV also delivers an estimated 5,000-pound maximum tow capacity.
The BraunAbility MXVTM is produced at BraunAbility’s 170,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Winamac, Indiana, and sold at more than 200 authorized dealers throughout the United States.
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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Michigan, manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 197,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://www.corporate.ford.com.
About BraunAbility
BraunAbility is the world’s leading manufacturer of wheelchair accessible vehicles and wheelchair lifts in the mobility industry. Founded nearly 50 years ago by Ralph Braun, the corporation was built on the age-old adage, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” Ralph Braun was a young man who used a wheelchair and had no reliable transportation to and from his place of work. He built his first wheelchair-accessible vehicle in 1972, and since then the company has grown into the most well-known and experienced name in the mobility industry, bringing independence to millions of individuals across the world.
Megan Wegner, BraunAbility, http://www.braunability.com, +1 (574) 946-4139 Ext: 3125, [email protected]
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