Wheelchair Ramps and Lifts for Accessible Vehicles

Mobility means more than just getting from point A to B—it means doing so safely, independently, and comfortably. At Universal Motion, we offer a wide range of wheelchair ramps and lifts to help you or your loved one access a vehicle with ease. Whether you’re converting a minivan, full-size van, or SUV, our accessibility experts will help you choose the right entry solution tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

Not sure which option is right for you? Check out our Lifts vs Ramps blog to compare styles, features, and benefits in more detail.

What's the Difference Between a Ramp and a Lift?

Before diving into models and brands, it’s important to understand the fundamental differences between ramps and lifts. Both make wheelchair-accessible transportation possible, but they serve different users, vehicles, and environments.

Accessible Wheelchair Van Ramps

A ramp is a sloped platform that allows the wheelchair user to roll into the vehicle under their own power or with caregiver assistance. Ramps are often the go-to solution for side-entry or rear-entry minivans.

Manual ramps are easy to maintain and cost-effective. They require someone to physically fold or unfold the ramp.

Automatic ramps are power-deployable—perfect for users who want more independence or for caregivers seeking convenience.

Key benefits of ramps:

Compact and lightweight
Faster to deploy (especially automatic models)
Compatible with tight parking spaces, especially rear-entry designs
Budget-friendly, especially in manual form
Lower maintenance needs

Need more details on entry configurations? Visit our Side-Entry Vans and Rear-Entry Vans pages to learn more about the ideal ramp setups for your space and parking needs.

Accessible Wheelchair Van Lifts

A wheelchair lift is a powered platform that raises and lowers the user vertically into the vehicle. Lifts are most often found in full-size vans, commercial transport vehicles, or large SUVs. They’re ideal for power chairs or scooters that exceed standard ramp weight limits.

Lifts can be operated via handheld remote or interior controls, offering smooth and controlled entry. They can be installed in both side-entry and rear-entry configurations depending on the vehicle.

Key benefits of lifts:

High weight capacity—ideal for power chairs or scooters
Remote operation for effortless use
Compatible with larger vehicles and commercial transport setups
Flexible installation: rear or side

Curious how lifts compare to ramps in real-world settings? Check out our Lifts vs Ramps blog for a full side-by-side breakdown.

How We Help You Choose the Right System

Every mobility need is unique, and we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. At Universal Motion, we guide you through the process from start to finish:

Step 1: Needs Assessment

We begin with an in-depth conversation to understand your mobility needs, equipment type, preferred parking situations, and vehicle layout. Whether you’re driving the van yourself or riding with a caregiver, your goals guide our recommendations.

Step 2: Vehicle Compatibility Check

We evaluate your existing or future vehicle to determine compatibility with different ramp or lift models. Not all systems work with every van or SUV, so we take the guesswork out.

Step 3: Budget and Maintenance Planning

Our team explains the cost breakdown of each option—manual vs automatic, ramp vs lift—so you can make an informed decision. We also cover routine maintenance and warranty options.

Step 4: Professional Installation and Ongoing Support

All of our ramp and lift installations are performed in-house by certified technicians. We also provide servicing, repairs, and adjustments to ensure your equipment continues working flawlessly for years to come.

Brands and Models We Trust

We proudly install lifts and ramps from the industry’s leading manufacturers, including:

BraunAbility
VMI (Vantage Mobility International)
Harmar
Adapt Solutions
Ricon

These manufacturers are known for reliability, smooth operation, and compliance with Transport Canada’s regulations.

Looking for a new or used vehicle with an accessibility solution already installed? Browse our Inventory of fully converted vans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wheelchair Ramps and Lifts

Choosing a ramp or lift system is a major decision. Here are some of the most common questions we receive:

What's the best option for power wheelchair users? -

Power wheelchair users typically require a lift due to the weight of the device. Some heavy-duty ramps may work depending on the model, but a lift is usually the safest and most convenient choice.

Are ramps better for certain types of vans? +

Yes—ramps are especially suited to minivans and rear-entry conversions, where space is limited. Manual ramps also offer quick access and are ideal for families and caregivers.

What kind of maintenance do ramps and lifts require? +

Manual ramps require minimal upkeep, while automatic ramps and lifts involve occasional maintenance for motors, hydraulics, or electrical components. We provide full support for every product we install.

Can I drive my van if the lift or ramp malfunctions? +

Most systems are designed with fail-safes, but we always recommend calling us if you experience any issues. We offer prompt servicing and can advise on next steps depending on your situation.

How do I know what system I need? +

We recommend booking a consultation. We’ll walk you through all available options, test equipment with your current mobility device, and help you compare costs and features.

Still have questions? Contact Us—our team is happy to help.

The Universal Motion Difference

We’re not just installers—we’re mobility problem-solvers. Every ramp or lift system we install is backed by:

Decades of experience in accessible transportation
NSM and D409 compliant modifications
In-house certified technicians
Transparent pricing and financing support
A Canadian team that understands your lifestyle

From Rentals to full custom builds, we’re here to help you move forward—safely and independently.

Explore More Accessibility Insights

Want to learn more before making a decision? Check out our other blogs to explore topics like:

Buying vs leasing a wheelchair van
NSM safety standards in Canada
Rear-entry vs side-entry conversions
Accessible vehicle maintenance tips

These manufacturers are known for reliability, smooth operation, and compliance with Transport Canada’s regulations.

Looking for a new or used vehicle with an accessibility solution already installed? Browse our Inventory of fully converted vans.

Ready to Get Started?

Universal Motion is proud to help Canadians find mobility solutions that truly fit their lives. Whether you’re starting fresh or upgrading your current vehicle, we’ll help you choose the right ramp or lift system with confidence.

Mobility starts with the right entry system—and the right team.