PHOENIX, Ariz. (September 3, 2019)—Vantage Mobility International (VMI), a manufacturer of wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), is pleased to announce an exclusive agreement with Mobility Networks, a manufacturer of vehicle accessibility solutions based in the United Kingdom. This exclusive distributor agreement will make VMI the sole provider of Mobility Networks’ global products for WAVs now sold in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Under the agreement, VMI will offer Mobility Networks’ products for installation on many of the most popular vehicles on the road today for both consumer and commercial applications, including the Dodge Promaster and Ford Transit full-size vans. Customers will be able to order products for installation on vehicles shipped from VMI’s factory locations in Tucker, Georgia and Clarkston, Michigan.
VMI selected Mobility Networks’ products for its dedication to enhancing the customer experience through innovation, reliability and safety. From an integrated diagnostic troubleshooting system for greater reliability to lift products with security measures including a self-leveling and anti-drift mechanism, Mobility Networks has put great emphasis on product designs to create benefits that customers can enjoy for years to come.
“Installing Mobility Networks’ products on VMI vehicles ensures that we are giving our customers the best and safest products on the market that fit their unique needs to achieve greater independence,“ said Mark Shaughnessy, CEO of VMI. “This exclusive arrangement with Mobility Networks will also simplify our product line, enabling VMI and our authorized dealers to maintain an inventory of ready parts for efficient installation, service and repair.”
Mobility Network’s premier product line includes iCLASS platform lift products, which come in several design configurations: split lifts, solid lifts and fold lifts—all designed to allow safe, reliable access to the vehicle interior with easy ramp operation controls. Mobility Networks is currently working on adding proprietary advanced technology that will enable remote ramp operation.
“The Mobility Networks team is truly excited about entering and serving the North American market with VMI; a trusted and established partner within the vehicle accessibility market,” said Wayne Harmer, CEO of Mobility Networks Group. “Both parties share a common and closely aligned purpose and we believe that this partnership will strengthen our goals of empowering lives and promoting inclusivity for all. VMI’s expertise, trusted reputation, and nationwide network of partners, combined with Mobility Networks’ passion for providing vehicle converters and end users with inspired accessibility equipment, will provide the market with a first-class product and optimum service levels for the lifetime of the vehicle.”
Mobility Networks’ use of common components in its products will greatly benefit VMI’s mobility dealer network. With an estimated reduction of required inventoried parts by 69%, dealers will be able to provide service with ease and deliver faster turnaround time, successfully getting customers back on the road sooner.
In addition, VMI customers who purchase a new or used vehicle will receive one year of complimentary roadside assistance membership through the VMI Assurance Program. This exclusive solution provides roadside emergency service, towing, paratransit and troubleshooting for vehicles and lifts. This new program, announced in June 2019, stems from a partnership with Mobility Roadside Assistance and At-Home Service provided by wrench.com.
Mobility Networks’ products will greatly broaden VMI’s portfolio of product offerings. Mobility Networks’ U.S. model iCLASS lifts are Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 403/404 compliant, have a 1,000 pounds (454 Kg) capacity and come with a standard two-year warranty.
Visit vmivans.com for more information.
