Words by Jan Lee
There was a time not long ago when seeing the country from the window of your RV was a pleasure reserved only for the fit and able. Having any kind of mobility restriction that required the use of a wheelchair or walker could make it impossible to enjoy a road trip in your motorhome.
Newmar Corporation
The accessible motorcoach makes summer touring more comfortable for all members of the family.
For many RV'ers, it wasn't the potential cost of modifying the vehicle that was a barrier but the lack of technology and industry foresight. Aisleways were too narrow for wheelchairs. Counters were too high and out of reach for the sitting individual. Bathrooms were too narrow to safely accommodate walkers or individuals with an unsteady gait. Entrances simply didn't accommodate rolling wheelchairs.
It took the ingenuity, spunk, and determination of RV advocates to prove that it was really possible – and worth it – for the industry to change the way RVs are manufactured. The early pioneers found ways to modify their own campers, vans or motorhomes, either by hiring contractors or by doing the work themselves.
But a growing number of RV manufacturers are realizing these days that there is consumer demand for wheelchair-accessible RVs – and what's more — for designing templates that can be modified to meet a wide spectrum of adaptive needs.
Some of today's top manufacturers now offer accessible lines that include automated wheelchair lifts and ramps. Aisleways have been broadened and bathrooms are built with walker, wheelchair and scooter access in mind. In some models, counters and tables have been lowered, or are adjustable to meet individual needs.
Of course, purchasing a camper or motorhome that has modifications built into it comes with an increased price. Those increases generally vary according to the kinds and amount of modifications and services added. But for many RV'ers, particularly travelers that plan to spend a significant amount of time touring or plan to live year-round in their RV, the added sticker price is worth it.
Winnebago Industries
The powered wheelchair lift is situated at the rear of the Intent AE, outside of the main lounge area.
Not all RVs are the same
There are a few types of RVs that manufacturers (and contractors) tend to steer clear of when it comes to modifying for mobility needs. The most obvious is the fifth wheel, which usually incorporates a stairway to the bedroom. The other is any model that doesn't include a slide-out, has steps, or a narrow passageway to any essential part of the trailer.
Manufacturers are finding that Class A and C motorhomes, and single-level tow-along trailers lend best to wider aisles, roomier washrooms, and wider entranceways. Some offer better options for furniture placement, like powered dinette tables and convertible couches.
Still, buyers should look closely at the RV's layout to ensure it will meet their needs. Are appliances positioned where they can be safely reached? Do you have to extend a slide-out just to get from one end of the RV to another, or is there adequate room to move safely in the case of an unexpected power failure?
Winnebago's Accessible Motorhomes
Winnebago is no stranger to innovation. Although it is best known for its plush motorhomes, a wide range of products now sport its logo, from tow-along trailers to a state-of-the-art medical lung unit that is motored by a hybrid electrical engine.
The company's accessibility enhanced (AE) line is an extension of that technological know-how, which marries practicality with out-of-the box thinking. Currently, Winnebago offers three types of products, all directed toward increasing accessibility for Class A motorhome users who also want the ease of operation.
The Intent (AE), Forza AE and Adventurer AE have all been outfitted with wider aisles, more convenient amenities, and space to accommodate a wheelchair at the dining table. Control panels have also been lowered for easy reach. All of the models include a slide-out in the living room or bedroom areas.
There are slight but distinctive differences between the three models. The 30-foot, gas-operated Intent AE is Winnebago's most affordable unit and features a wheelchair lift at the rear end of the motorhome, adjacent to the bedroom. The washroom facilities are on either side of an aisleway for easy access. The queen-size bed is adjustable and retractable in size.
The diesel-powered Forza AE (35' 9") has extra exterior storage space and hookup features at wheelchair height. The RV's automated chair lift sits near the front of the vehicle.
The 31-foot diesel-powered Adventurer includes a queen-size bed that converts to two single-size beds. The swivel chairs adjust for easy transfer from a chair or walker. The dining table is adaptable for varied use. Both the Forza and Adventurer have full, "roll-in" washrooms and barrier-free showers.
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Winnebago Industries
The powered wheelchair lift is situated at the rear of the Intent AE, outside of the main lounge area.
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Winnebago Industries
Newmar's Accessible Motorcoach Line
The Indiana-based Newmar Corporation gained its notoriety in the 1960s for its popular lines of travel trailers and fifth wheels. Today it is best known for its motorhomes and its ability to match the needs and desires of a changing customer base.
Its three accessible models are the best examples of that expertise. The accessible models of its Canyon Star 3911, Dutch Star 4311 and Ventana 4311 feature fully-accessible, roll-in washrooms and thoughtfully designed accessible amenities.
The Canyon Star (39' 11") places its wheelchair lift at the rear end of the bus and is outfitted with a backup pump and handrails.
The Dutch Star's longer size of 43'11" allows for a larger master bathroom and more amenities and toys in the living room. The power-operated adjustable dining table allows for easy seating choices.
The Ventana matches the Dutch Star in size and has similar features. The microwave is at wheelchair level. The powered lift is stored in an exterior luggage compartment so it doesn't take up living space.
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Newmar Corporation
The Canyon Star's powered lift is easy to operate and conveniently located.
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Newmar Corporation
The Ventana is equipped with wide isles, easy-to-reach amenities and sofas that allow for easy transfer from walker or wheelchair.
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Newmar Corporation
The counter areas in the Dutch Star have been lowered to afford easy access from a wheelchair and include easy-to-reach appliances.
Harbor View's 7 Accessible Towable Trailers
RV'ers who want a smartly designed accessible travel trailer are often referred to HL Enterprise, an Indiana-based manufacturer of towable travel trailers that has been in the business since the 1980s.
HL Enterprise (HL) is one of the few RV manufacturers in North America that offers pre-designed layouts for wheelchair-accessible models. According to HL's Director of Sales, Sebern Combs, its Harbor View line is gaining popularity among RV'ers who want a roomier RV that accommodates mobility limitations.
"We have 7 standard models that the customer can choose from," said Combs, who added that the most popular model is the 36CKWT, which comes with two slide outs and is one of the roomier layouts offered.
"It has a full queen-size bed and the largest bedroom that Harbor View offers." It also comes with an optional wireless remote controller for easier setup and operation.
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Winnebago Industries
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John Hake
The isles in bedrooms have often been off-limits to wheelchairs in many motorcoach models. The Intent AE features wider isles and easy reach for closets.
Test-driving Rental Options
Renting an accessible RV is a great way to "test-drive" the upgraded features of a motorhome or travel trailer. A number of rental distributors in Canada and the U.S. now offer accessible models and are trained in setup and operation procedures. We'll be exploring that topic in the next issue.
Accessibility – An Expanding Definition
Even with the substantial strides that have been made in recent years, the RV construction industry still has a way to go to ensure that the RVs we purchase are inclusive and can address the needs of all users. Combs acknowledged that at the present time, the Harbor View line doesn't include assistive features for low-vision or hearing disabilities, such as Braille-equipped fixtures and other technology. He said HL is considering further improvements, however, and that the industry's ongoing success in this arena is owed to the feedback it receives from customers about what's really essential for owners and their families.
"Every day we learn from our consumers," said Combs. "We are always improving."
Hopefully, with the ongoing work and ingenuity of these manufacturers and other RV specialists, the truly inclusive RV will one day, be just around the corner.
Accessible RV Manufacturers
Be sure to specify that you are looking for an accessible model when contacting the manufacturer so it can direct you to the salesroom closest to you.
- Winnebago Industries
https://winnebagoind.com/product-classes/accessibility-enhanced
(641) 585-3535
- Newmar Corporation
https://www.newmarcorp.com/wheelchair-accessible/
(800) 731-8300
- HL Enterprise
http://www.hlenterpriseinc.com/harbor-view.html
(574) 294-1112