METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

REV Group introduces first hybrid wheelchair-accessible vehicle at LA Auto Show

The base vehicle is the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, and the introduction was part of the FCA exhibit highlighting the breadth of its automotive technologies.

December 1, 2017
REV Group introduces first hybrid wheelchair-accessible vehicle at LA Auto Show

 

2 min to read


REV Group introduced the world’s first production plug-in gas/electric hybrid wheelchair accessible vehicle at the LA Auto Show. The base vehicle is the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, and the introduction was part of the FCA exhibit highlighting the breadth of its automotive technologies. The introduction also marked the first public show for REV Group’s latest specialty vehicle brand, Revability.

"Our company motto is we ‘connect and protect’,” said REV Group President/CEO Tim Sullivan. “These are not just words. For REV these words connote action. We design, produce, and service the safest mobility vans in the industry to ensure that those individuals that require our vehicles can connect. We are fully dedicated to serving the mobility industry with the most cost effective, highest quality vehicles possible. We believe that our conversion of the new Pacifica Hybrid vans provide our industry with the safest and most cost effective vehicle in the industry today."

Ad Loading...

REV Group’s mobility division, Revability, was completely responsible for conversion of the plug-in gas/electric hybrid Chrysler Pacifica, which was created at its Clarkston, Mich., facility. Modifications included redesign / construction of flooring, deployable ramp, fabricating and relocating of a new gas tank, and other structural changes to ensure safety and stability.

Badged the Revability Advantage Pacifica, the vehicle features front and middle-row captain’s seats with wheelchair accessibility from the rear of the vehicle via a manual low-effort counter balanced ramp. There is an optional trifold ramp available that maximizes luggage compartment storage space when the wheelchair is not being used. When folded in this configuration, it provides secure storage beneath the ramp, while maintaining wheelchair accessibility.

The Revability Advantage Pacifica is rated at 84 MPG as a result of a reduction of the 16.5-gallon fuel tank to a 14-gallon capacity during the conversion process, and there is a slight decrease in potential range. It retains all OEM functionality, with the ability to accommodate a wheelchair.

“Our customers expect the latest in vehicle technology, both from an accessibility standpoint, and a technological standpoint. We’re here to offer vehicles that provide maximum accessibility and freedom, and are also environmentally friendly,” said Chuck Fortinberry, VP of Revability. “This vehicle continues REV Group’s tradition of providing the highest quality hand-crafted specialty vehicles to its customers based on the latest technology available.”

The vehicle is intended for commercial and personal use. It could be put into service commercially by Q1 of 2018.

More Paratransit

transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →
AMF Bruns' new headquarters and parking lot.
Paratransitby StaffApril 28, 2026

Inside AMF Bruns of America’s New Ohio Production Hub [Photos]

Step inside AMF Bruns of America’s 41,000-square-foot facility in Stow, Ohio, where expanded manufacturing capacity, modernized operations, and a focus on next-generation mobility solutions are shaping the company’s growth in accessible transportation.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Exterior image of AMF Bruns' new facility in Ohio.
Paratransitby StaffApril 22, 2026

AMF Bruns Opens New Ohio Headquarters, Expands U.S. Manufacturing Footprint

With expanded production space, local investment, and a growing workforce, AMF Bruns is scaling its U.S. presence. Here’s an exclusive look inside the new Stow, Ohio, HQ.

Read More →
Ribbon cutting photo celebrating SEPTA's new Ardmore Station
Managementby StaffApril 13, 2026

Philadelphia's SEPTA Celebrates New Ardmore Station

The station was rebuilt as part of SEPTA’s Station Accessibility Program, making it fully ADA accessible with new elevators, ramps, and high-level platforms.

Read More →
Nadine S. Lee
Managementby StaffMarch 26, 2026

DART's President/CEO Announces Departure from Agency

Nadine S. Lee, who has served as president/CEO since July 2021, said the decision comes after careful reflection on the agency’s progress and its path forward.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
paratransit bus
SponsoredMarch 16, 2026

Measuring the True Cost of Paratransit Fleets

What truly drives the cost of a paratransit fleet? Beyond the purchase price, seven operational factors quietly determine maintenance frequency, downtime, and long-term service reliability. This whitepaper explores how these factors shape lifecycle cost and what agencies should evaluate when selecting paratransit vehicles.

Read More →
A next-generation HART paratransit SUV.
Paratransitby StaffMarch 3, 2026

Florida's HART Launch First Next-Generation Paratransit Vehicles into Service

The new HARTPlus SUVs — 2025 Ford Interceptor Utility models — represent a significant step toward modernizing mobility and enhancing service for paratransit riders throughout Hillsborough County.

Read More →
Webinar title over image of a transit van driving down the road
SponsoredFebruary 25, 2026

The Future of Paratransit: How to Thrive in an Uncertain Era

See how leading agencies integrate eligibility, operations, staffing, and rider access to protect service and public dollars.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Technologyby StaffJanuary 22, 2026

Biz Briefs: BART, Uber Launch Partnership and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →