VMI History

As a pioneer in the mobility vehicle industry, the history of VMI dates back to the late 1970's, when the original founders were challenged to build a suitable handicap accessible vehicle for a close family friend. They envisioned a new concept that would elimate the need for the traditional wheelchair lift, mounted on the side of a full-sized van. With the use of simple manufacturing tools and techniques, the three individuals converted an Oldsmobile Toronado, one of the first front-wheel drive cars at that time. The new vehicle, called the FAMCAR, used a wheelchair ramp rather than a mobility lift, and was an immediate success.

The Accessible Minivan Changes the Industry

In 1984, an automotive engineer suggested that the three apply their lowered-floor technology to the new front-wheel drive Chrysler minivan. They introduced the first accessible conversion van based on the Chrysler minivan and in 1987 incorporated as Vantage Mini Vans, later to be renamed VMI (Vantage Mobility International), in Phoenix, AZ.

VMI Today - Wheelchair Accessible Vans and Platform Lifts

Today, as one of the largest manufacturers of wheelchair van conversions, VMI builds, markets and services a complete line of high-quality wheelchair accessible vehicles and platform wheelchair lifts to those with disabilities. VMI takes pride in building leading edge mobility products and is always striving to bring new, innovative solutions to the market.

More than Accessible Vehicles

In addition to the satisfaction we derive from knowing our award-winning handicap vans are helping thousands of people achieve their dreams of greater freedom, we take special pride in the efforts of all our employees for many well-known charities like the Muscular Distrophy Association (MDA), Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Walk..