The manufacturer of the first vehicle designed for wheelchair users recently awarded the Northern California license to Destinations Mobility, the new division of local nonprofit Paratransit, Inc.
The MV-1 from Detroit-based Vehicle Production Group LLC is the first specially designed van built with wheelchair users’ feedback rather than converted from already-built vans. “We are really proud to be part of this new venture,” said Richard Rosebush, Destinations Mobility division manager.
Destinations Mobility was given the license because of the local nonprofit’s national presence, its long history in the industry and the staff’s experience in disability issues. Destinations Mobility Division Manager Richard Rosebush comes from Detroit with 25 years in disability vehicle sales.
Destinations Mobility is the first nonprofit VPG has worked with.
“We targeted them specifically,” said Ed Kendzierski, VPG Regional Sales Manager. “Destinations Mobility and its parent company, Paratransit, have the caring and sensitivity essential to our industry.
“It’s not just about buying a car, it’s a process. Because it’s not just transportation, it’s really independence.”
Because the MV-1 meets ADA guidelines, the vehicles have more head room and larger doors and ramps than converted vans. Once inside, passengers in wheelchairs have enough room to scoot around and sit next to the driver, among other things.
A green version also can run on compressed natural gas, which is better for the environment.
Available since 2010 to the commercial paratransit and taxi market, VPG only recently began working on a model for individual consumers.
The Destinations Mobility showroom, located at 2501 Florin Road in Sacramento, is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information on Destinations Mobility, go to http://www.destinationsmobility.com..
Founded in 1978, Paratransit, Inc., provides transportation services to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and related agencies in Sacramento County. For more information, go to http://www.paratransit.org.
