Wheelchair mobility enters the SUV category

Traditionally, if you needed a vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair, you had two options: a full-size van or minivan. Thankfully those days are over. Mobility outfitter BraunAbility, along with Ford, have come together to offer this, the BraunAbility MXV. It’s based on the current Ford Explorer and offers all modern accessibility features, along with the go-anywhere capability and popular styling of the Explorer.

"We’re thrilled 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 BraunAbility MXV furthers that reputation."

BraunAbility modifies the Explorer’s floor, removes the second-row seats, and creates a proprietary swinging rear door. A low floor height allows for a narrow ramp angle for easy entry and exit, while a customizable floor allows for different seating configurations. Wheelchair users are able to either ride or drive the BraunAbility MXV. The Explorer’s controls can be modified, including a sliding feature for the gear selector.

What’s more, the key fob controls the swinging rear door and ramp for easy access. The Explorer’s 5,000-pound towing capacity remains, giving further utility beyond the typical minivan.

The BraunAbility MXV upfit is available with the Explorer’s Base, XLT, and Limited trim levels, giving customers a wide range of features and pricing. It comes powered by the 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and sending power to the front wheels, the Explorer carries an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined.

The BraunAbility MXV is produced at BraunAbility’s facility in Winamac, Indiana and is sold at more than 200 dealers across the U.S.

Updated 02/12/2016: We added a series of new images of the new BraunAbility MXV taken during its official unveiling at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. Check them out in the "Pictures" tab.

Continue reading to learn more about the Ford BraunAbility MXV.