Floor lowering in vehicles is an automotive transformation that has evolved significantly in recent decades, with the aim of providing greater accessibility and comfort for people with reduced mobility who use wheelchairs.
Origin and Early Solutions
The first solutions, dating back to the mid-20th century, consisted of rudimentary adaptations made to vans or commercial vehicles, where a ramp or lifting platform was installed to allow wheelchair users to access the vehicle. However, these adaptations did not guarantee a comfortable or safe position, and the limited interior height of the vehicles made movement and the overall experience difficult.
Evolution Over the Years
With advances in technology and growing concern for inclusion, more sophisticated transformations emerged, among which the lowering of the rear floor stands out.
This technique consists of modifying the vehicle's structure, reducing the height of the floor from the rear to the front of the rear seats, thus allowing:
- Increased usable height inside the vehicle;
- Smoother access with integrated ramps, replacing the old lifting platforms;
- Improved stability and safety of the wheelchair during transport.
In the 1980s and 1990s, these modifications began to be more common in minivans, providing a more ergonomic and comfortable space. Today, solutions are increasingly discreet, safe and integrated, complying with all European safety standards.
Advantages for the User
The main advantages of floor lowering are:
- Easier Accessibility: The reduced angle of the ramp allows the user to enter and exit the vehicle independently or with minimal assistance.
- More Interior Space: Lowering provides sufficient height for the wheelchair user to remain in a natural and safe position during the journey.
- Comfort and Safety: Transport becomes more stable, eliminating the need for transfers to conventional seats.
- Inclusion and Autonomy: This solution promotes user independence, allowing them to actively participate in social and professional life.
Floor lowering is undoubtedly one of the most significant adaptations in the evolution of accessible mobility, representing an essential advance in improving the quality of life of people with reduced mobility.
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