07/10/2006
VMI, a leader in the mobility industry, announces the newest addition to their extensive line of Ricon platform lifts, the Slide-Away. The new Slide-Away lift is the most innovative platform lift design the industry has seen in years; a lift that has the strength and safety of a dual post lift plus the clear access and front passenger seat functionality thought only possible with a single post lift.
The goal was to design a platform lift that provides maximum access and functionality for wheelchair users and their families. The result is the Slide-Away lift that slides away to give users all the comfort and convenience they deserve. The sliding design allows full functionality of the front passenger seat, while also giving passengers unobstructed access through the side door. More importantly, performance was not sacrificed for convenience; the proven strength of the dual-powered cylinder design means safe, smooth operation for even the heaviest power chairs.
With a standard 600 lb. lifting capacity, the Slide-Away lift rivals all platform lifts in its class. VMI and Ricon wanted to go one step further and designed installation kits that raise the lifting capacity to 800 lbs. When installed with these kits, the Slide-Away meets ALL FMVSS standards for deflection at 800 lbs.
"We consulted with many of our dealers during the design process, and there was an overwhelming consensus that there is an existing need for a private use lift that can hold 600+ pounds" said Zach Schroeck, VMI Product Manager. "We listened to that feedback and designed install kits that gave the lift 800 lbs. of lifting capacity."
With proven Ricon technology, the Slide-Away lift maintains the performance and durability of the S-Series lifts with added features and benefits our customers have been missing. S-Series lifts have been in production since 1981, with tens of thousands in service today. The Slide-Away can be installed to the Ford E-Series vans, the GM Fullsize vans and the Dodge Sprinter vans (side door only). There are two platform sizes available; 30"W x 42"L and 30"W x 48"L. With the introduction of the Mark 1 under carriage lift last year and the announcement of the new Slide-Away lift, it shows that VMI continues to invest in innovation, reliability and functionality for customers
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