06/01/2005
Phoenix based Vantage Mobility International, a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of vehicle accessibility products has joined forces with Elkhart Indiana based Tuscany Automotive Solutions, the premier interior vehicle modifier and designer in North America. This is another example of market consolidation in the mobility industry. Combining winning technologies, these companies have joined together to better serve the growing and changing needs of the mobility consumer. Together they have produced the mobility industry'dbo's best in class full-size van conversions.
Doug Eaton, President and CEO of VMI stated, "We are honored to work with such an expert in interior design and modification as Tuscany. We see this union as a way to provide consumers a best in class full size van conversion, while taking advantage of VMI'dbo's core competencies of van floor conversions and marketing, with Tuscany'dbo's superior interior design and conversion"
VMI and Tuscany are proud to introduce new conversions for the Ford E250 and E350 full size vans. These conversions offer a variety of options such as a flat 6" drop lowered floor, 6" lowered floor plus 2" additional drop in the drivers position, and a mid ship floor drop. These modifications empower consumers in wheelchairs to have the freedom of mobility.
The design for this crash tested and Ford Truck Quality Program (FTQP) approved lowered floor conversion was driven by feedback that VMI dealers provided. These dealers attended VMI'dbo's 2004 dealer focus group titled Monster Garage. VMI is unique in that it is the only van conversion company that has the ability to convert the floor, add the latest in interior comforts, and install compliant FMVSS platform lifts. With one phone call VMI dealers can have all of their mobility needs met.
The new VMI/Tuscany will be offered through a network of trained mobility dealers throughout North America. Mark Roberts, VP of Sales for VMI stated; "We have heard our dealers saying that there is a need for a best in class full size van conversion. I am confident that the best partner for such an undertaking is Tuscany Automotive Solutions."
Tuscany is the undisputed leader in interior design and modification for full size van and truck interiors. With VMI'dbo's new conversion, Tuscany is introducing an interior package that will include the best in class design and finish. Tuscany is Ford Motor Company'dbo's
only manufacturer to receive its Quality Excellence Award every year since the programs inception seven years ago. Recognizing the changing needs of consumers, Tuscany will offer the broadest range of interior options on the market. VMI customers can create a truly unique interior specific to their needs and tastes, plus with VMI'dbo's network of over 300 accessible vehicle dealers consumers will find mobility products readily available.
Mike Graber, President of Tuscany Automotive Solutions stated, "We are proud to work with VMI, as they too share the same vision for our consumers; we believe that limited mobility does not need to mean limited style, comfort or reliability. The new VMI / Tuscany conversion offers the widest range of options, to create unique mobility solutions for consumer'dbo's needs and challenges."
In addition to the van conversion and interior, VMI will soon be introducing new platform lifts and an under vehicle lift named the MARK 1. Paul Marnocha, National Sales Manager, Full-Size Van Division of VMI stated, "VMI and Tuscany conversions coupled with the ability to install the new 403/404 compliant lifts during manufacturing of the van will provide the turn key mobility product solution this industry has needed for over 20 years."
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