Chrysler Debuts Accessible Pacifica at Chicago Auto Show

• By Laurie Watanabe
• Feb 14, 2017

Chrysler and BraunAbility have partnered to create a wheelchair-accessible version of the Pacifica minivan, which made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show last week.

The new Pacifica features AccessAbility technology that includes “an aerospace-inspired sliding door extension and the industry’s widest side-entry ramp, with rear-axle space innovations and cantilevered seat bases that expand interior cabin space, maximizing space for obstruction-free maneuverability for all sizes and types of wheelchairs,” Chrysler said in a news announcement.

The accessible Pacifica is available in side- or rear-entry ramp configurations, and in a number of different models with different seating, options and performance packages.

The two manufacturers also announced a joint partnership with Canine Companions for Independence, an organization that trains service dogs for people with disabilities. BraunAbility and Chrysler are supporting Canine Companions’ “Give a Dog a Job” program.

Nick Gutwein, president/CEO of BraunAbility, said of the Pacifica’s debut, “For over 45 years, BraunAbility and Chrysler have worked together to empower people with physical disabilities, including our founder Ralph Braun, to stay connected to what matters in their lives. The need for quality mobility solutions is only going to grow, and we are thrilled to align with Chrysler to launch the innovative and uncompromising BraunAbility Chrysler Pacifica.”