Traditionally, if you needed a vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair, you had two options: a full-size van or minivan.->ke1149 Thankfully those days are over. Mobility outfitter BraunAbility, along with Ford,->ke31 have come together to offer this, the BraunAbility MXV. It’s based on the current Ford Explorer and offers all modern accessibility features, along with the go-anywhere capability and popular styling of the Explorer.->ke342

"We’re thrilled the Explorer name is connected to such a highly respected brand like BraunAbility," said Omar Odeh, Ford marketing manager. "Explorer has always been associated with helping people go places they otherwise could not, and BraunAbility MXV furthers that reputation."

BraunAbility modifies the Explorer’s floor, removes the second-row seats, and creates a proprietary swinging rear door. A low floor height allows for a narrow ramp angle for easy entry and exit, while a customizable floor allows for different seating configurations. Wheelchair users are able to either ride or drive the BraunAbility MXV. The Explorer’s controls can be modified, including a sliding feature for the gear selector.

What’s more, the key fob controls the swinging rear door and ramp for easy access. The Explorer’s 5,000-pound towing capacity remains, giving further utility beyond the typical minivan.

The BraunAbility MXV upfit is available with the Explorer’s Base, XLT, and Limited trim levels, giving customers a wide range of features and pricing. It comes powered by the 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and sending power to the front wheels, the Explorer carries an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined.

The BraunAbility MXV is produced at BraunAbility’s facility in Winamac, Indiana and is sold at more than 200 dealers across the U.S.

Updated 02/12/2016: We added a series of new images of the new BraunAbility MXV taken during its official unveiling at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. Check them out in the "Pictures" tab.

Continue reading to learn more about the Ford BraunAbility MXV.

What makes the Ford BraunAbility MXV special

The BraunAbility MXV is the first wheelchair-accessible SUV produced in mass. This gives wheelchair uses a completely new vehicle segment to choose from when considering a purchase.

The major differences between a stock Explorer and the BraunAbility MXV is the floor configuration, missing second-row seats and front center console, and the swinging rear passenger door. The lowered and flattened load floor gives wheelchair users easy access and maneuverability within the Explorer. The seats can be moved around, depending on who is driving. The gear selector, normally located on the center console, is relocated to an adjustable mount that hangs off the lower dashboard.

The Explorer’s third row seats are still in place, giving seating for two extra passengers. Including the wheelchair user, the Explorer will seat four. Fitted with the remote key fob and power-operated door and ramp, wheelchair users don’t have to rely on someone to open the door or fold the ramp – it’s all done electronically.

Once the side door is closed, the Explorer mostly keeps its stock looks, save for an extended black skirt at the rocker panel. The Explorer’s drivetrain remains intact, though the BraunAbility MXV can only be had in front-wheel drive due to the lowered floor.

All told, the BraunAbility MXV plenty of features and amenities for wheelchair users and their families, all wrapped in the trendy styling of an SUV.

2016 Ford Explorer

Read our full review on the 2016 Ford Explorer here.