SUV Accessibility Solutions

-- Steady & Reliable Manufacturer --

Product Description

SUV Accessibility Solutions encompass a range of products and systems designed to lower the effective step-in height and facilitate safer, easier entry and exit for all vehicle occupants. This category goes beyond standard running boards to address specific accessibility challenges, often integrating with vehicle systems or offering manual assist features. The core product is the electric running board, but the "solution" aspect includes considerations for installation positioning, actuation triggers tailored for accessibility needs, and potential integration with other vehicle modifications.

These solutions are designed with input from ergonomic principles, ensuring the deployed step is at an optimal height and distance from the vehicle's sill. For users with mobility limitations, features like delayed retraction (allowing more time to enter), remote-control operation (from a key fob or in-cabin switch), and ultra-wide step surfaces for stability are key differentiators. The systems prioritize reliability and safety, with robust construction and fail-safe mechanisms.

Technical Deep Dive

Ergonomic analysis determines the "sweet spot" for step placement relative to the vehicle door opening. Solutions may include non-slip surfaces with high visual contrast for users with impaired vision. For wheelchair-accessible vehicle conversions, the steps can be programmed to deploy in conjunction with a deployed ramp or lowered suspension. The control logic can be simplified to a single, large, backlit switch inside the cabin for direct user control, bypassing automatic door sensors if preferred.

Introduction

Vehicle accessibility is a fundamental aspect of inclusive design. For SUV owners and their families, a simple step can be the difference between independent mobility and reliance on assistance. Our SUV Accessibility Solutions are developed with a human-centered design approach, focusing on safety, dignity, and ease of use.

Bohai Auto Technology: A Partner in Inclusive Mobility

While we are a technology-driven manufacturer, our mission extends to creating products that solve real-world problems. Our development process for accessibility solutions often involves consulting with occupational therapists, mobility dealers, and end-users to understand their specific challenges.

Our factory's flexibility allows us to accommodate low-volume, highly customized orders that are common in the accessibility market. The ERP system manages these specialized orders efficiently, ensuring all custom components and programming instructions are tracked accurately from order to shipment.

By combining our manufacturing expertise with a focus on user needs, we aim to be a reliable supplier for companies and organizations that provide mobility solutions worldwide.

Primary Applications

Elderly Passengers & Individuals with Reduced Mobility: For whom the high step into an SUV is a significant barrier. This includes users with arthritis, knee/hip replacements, or general age-related strength decline.
Families with Young Children: Assists children in climbing into larger vehicles safely and independently, reducing strain on parents.
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Conversions: As a secondary aid for caregivers or passengers who are ambulatory but benefit from a lower step when transferring from a wheelchair to the vehicle seat.

Secondary & Institutional Applications

Medical Transport & Non-Emergency Ambulances: Vehicles used to transport patients to and from medical appointments.
Senior Living Communities & Retirement Homes: For shuttle vehicles that transport residents.
Car Rental Companies: Offering "accessible" vehicle options in their fleet.
Government & Social Service Agencies: Vehicles used in public service that need to accommodate a wide range of citizens.

Specification Table

Solution Focus	Ergonomics, Safety, and User-Control
Key Product	Wide-Tread Electric Running Boards with Enhanced Features
Step Width (Extended)	180mm - 250mm (wider than standard for stability)
Step Height from Ground	Optimized per vehicle model (typically 300-400mm lower than sill)
Activation Methods	Automatic (Door), Remote Fob, In-Cabin Switch, All of the above
Retraction Delay Timer	Adjustable, 5-30 seconds after door close
Step Surface	High-Friction Rubber with Bright Color Contrast Options (e.g., Yellow Edge)
Load Capacity	≥ 200kg (440 lbs) per step, emphasizing stability over extreme weight
Manual Override	Standard, with easy-to-access tool-less mechanism where possible
Control Interface	Large, Backlit, Tactile Buttons in cabin
Lighting	Integrated Step-Edge LED Lighting for visibility in low light

Q: Can the step be operated independently of the door, for example, if someone needs it to help lift a walker into the vehicle?
A: Yes, absolutely. This is a key feature of our accessibility solutions. The included wireless remote or the installed in-cabin switch allows you to extend the steps with all doors closed, providing a stable platform for loading items or preparing to enter.

Q: Is the step strong enough to hold someone using it for support while they stand up?
A> The step is rated for significant static load (≥200kg). While it is designed as a step, its stability and strength make it suitable for briefly bearing partial weight as part of a standing maneuver. However, it is not a substitute for a properly installed grab handle or support bar inside the vehicle.

Q: We have a fleet vehicle used by many elderly passengers. Can the step be set to "always on" for simplicity?
A> Yes, the control logic can be configured so that the steps deploy whenever the vehicle is in "Park" and remain deployed until the vehicle is shifted out of "Park." This "Park Mode" is a popular option for shuttle services.

Q: Do you offer solutions for sliding door minivans?
A> Yes. While our focus is SUVs, the same technology can be adapted for sliding door applications. The step would typically deploy when the sliding door is opened. This requires a different sensor setup and is a custom project.

Key Advantages

User-Centric Activation: Multiple, redundant control methods (auto, remote, switch) ensure the user can deploy the step in the way that is most convenient and safe for their situation.
Enhanced Stability Features: The wider step tread and high-friction surface provide a more secure footing, which is critical for users with balance concerns.
Safety-First Operation: Adjustable delay timers prevent the step from retracting while a user is still transitioning, and bright edge lighting improves visibility.
Simplified Manual Operation: The manual override is designed to be as simple as possible, recognizing that it may need to be used by someone with limited strength or dexterity.

Engineering Core

Ergonomic Modeling: Using anthropometric data to model the optimal step position for a 5th percentile female to a 95th percentile male, ensuring it works for a wide range of statures.
Redundant Control Circuitry: The control system is designed so that a failure in the automatic door-sensing circuit does not disable the manual switch or remote functions.
Progressive Deployment Speed: The step can be programmed to deploy and retract at a slightly slower, more controlled speed than standard models, reducing startle response and improving perceived safety.

Production Capacity

Our production line for accessibility-focused kits includes a separate QC station that specifically checks for smooth operation, delay timer accuracy, and function of all control methods. We stock wider step extrusions and specific rubber tread patterns for this product line. Custom programming of the ECUs for features like "Park Mode" or extended delay is done on a dedicated programming station before final assembly.

Customization Services (ODM/OEM)

Collaboration with Mobility Dealers: Working directly with companies that specialize in wheelchair vans and adaptive equipment to develop integrated solutions that work with their other products (ramps, lowered floors, etc.).
Custom Switch and Remote Design: Designing remote fobs or switches with extra-large buttons, different colors, or specific labeling (e.g., "STEP OUT").
Fleet-Specific Programming: For institutional fleets, locking the system into a specific, simple operating mode (e.g., Park Mode only) to reduce driver confusion.
Development for Specific Vehicle Models: Prioritizing the development of kits for vehicle models popular in the senior and accessible transport sectors, such as the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, or full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban.
Packaging for the End-User: Creating consumer-friendly packaging and installation manuals that are clear and simple, potentially including large-print options.

Material Selection Overview

For accessibility, material choices prioritize safety, durability, and user perception.

Step Tread (High-Friction Rubber): The primary focus is on grip in all conditions. We use vulcanized rubber compounds with a high coefficient of friction, even when wet. The pattern is often a pronounced chevron or button design. Options for bright yellow or white rubber inserts along the edge provide visual contrast for users with low vision.
Step Frame (Aluminum with Rounded Edges): The step's perimeter frame is typically aluminum with all corners and edges radiused (rounded off) to prevent scratches or snagging clothing. The finish is a non-reflective, textured powder coat to aid grip.
Internal Components: Motors and gears are selected for smooth, quiet, and reliable operation, as the user experience is paramount. Plastic gears are avoided in favor of metal for long-term durability under frequent use.
Control Switches: The optional in-cabin switches use large, tactile buttons with clear icons. The housing is made from soft-touch plastic to be comfortable and easy to press.

about Bohai

R&D and manufacturing of mid-to-high-end SUV electric pedals.

Bohai Automotive Technology (Zhejiang Huzhou) Co., Ltd. was established in 2014. It is a technology-based enterprise specializing in R&D China SUV Accessibility Solutions Manufacturers and Wholesale SUV Accessibility Solutions Suppliers The company is located on the southern bank of the beautiful Taihu Lake in the hinterland of the Yangtze River Golden Triangle-Changxing County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province. It is about 150 kilometers away from Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Ningbo, Suzhou, Wuxi and other large and medium cities.

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