The AM General auto assembly plant in Mishawaka, Indiana is where they used to build Hummer H2s. Now, its workers are making something a little less ... controversial. It's a van called the MV-1, MV standing for "Mobility Vehicle," and it's designed specifically for wheelchair-using passengers. Its designers claim that it is better suited to the handicapped than converted conventional vans, and the first factory-built model rolled off the assembly line yesterday.

A product of Miami's Vehicle Production Group, the MV-1 has a large 56 x 36-inch (142 x 91 cm) side door, and a 1,200 pound (544 kg)-capacity deployable ramp that stows under the floor when not in use. It can accommodate two wheelchair-using passengers, or one wheelchair and five additional traditionally-seated occupants, if the optional jump seat is used. Floor tracks are used to secure wheelchairs and scooters. The non-handicapped driver sits behind the wheel in a regular-style seat - perhaps future versions could allow wheelchair users to also drive, using something like RUVID's hand control device?

The vehicle is based around a body-on-frame configuration, and is powered by a Ford 4.6L 2V EFI V8 engine with an electronic four-speed automatic transmission. For the energy and/or environmentally-conscious, however, a factory-installed Compressed Natural Gas fuel system is also available. Mobility vans with the CNG system should have a driving range of approximately 290 miles (466.7 km).

The MV-1 proves you can be more mobile and more environmentally friendly. It is the only vehicle in its class with an available OEM engineered and assembled Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling system option. Because it's factory-installed, the MV-1 wheelchair vans with CNG option gives you the same durability, reliability and quality that everyone demands from gasoline-powered vehicles. And, since natural gas is primarily a domestic resource, the CNG MV-1, with an estimated 290-mile range, is good for the environment and good for America. Now everyone can breathe easier. CNG features:

• Unique CNG fueling system option designed and factory-installed, not an aftermarket conversion.

• Estimated 290-mile CNG range (which includes a 40-mile low level indicator).

• Three Type-3 CNG tanks integrated seamlessly into the vehicle design and factory-installed.

• Best-in-class luggage capacity (29.1 cubic feet).

• 21.1 Gasoline Gallon Equivalent (GGE).

For your protection, safety features are integrated throughout the MV-1. Starting with the anti-slip surface which covers the ramp and interior floor to give wheelchairs and scooters increased grip. While on the road, the MV-1 has Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to keep your ride steady. With passive and active safety features, it offers unprecedented peace of mind for mobility vehicle passengers and drivers. The MV-1 meets all applicable U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS).

MV- 1 wheelchair vans Warranty refers to:

• Bumper to Bumper - 3 years / 36,000 miles

• Powertrain - 5 years / 75,000 miles

• Ramp - 5 years / 75,000 miles

• Corrosion Protection - 5 years / 100,000 miles.

MV-1 Base Model: Standard Features

Power and Performance

• Ford 4.6L 2V EFI V8 Engine.

• Ford Electronic 4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive.

• Rear Wheel Drive with 3.45 Axle Ratios.

• 24-Gallon Gasoline Tank (est. 350-mile range).

• 17-Inch Steel Wheels with Center Wheel Cover.

Accessibility (meets ADA/CSA guidelines)

• Anti-Slip Floor Surface.

• Q-Straint® Wheelchair Restraint Track System.

• Manually Operated Ramp.

• Anti-Slip Ramp Surface.

• 4.1:1 Slope.

• Ramp Lighting.

• Multiple Grab Handles.