"The motorhomes are suited for both drivers and passengers"

Whether it’s a festival or a road trip in Norway – those who have a recreational vehicle (also called motorhome), can enjoy a car and lodging all-in-one and are free to travel independently and live life on their own terms. More and more people with disabilities also want to experience this kind of freedom. Accessible converted motorhomes make this a reality.

REHACARE.com spoke with Frank Sodermanns, Managing Director of F. Sodermanns Automobile GmbH, about the various design options of accessible motorhomes and what camping aficionados must keep in mind. 

Mr. Sodermanns, you offer a variety of recreational vehicle rentals. What are the differences and similarities of the different models?

Frank Sodermanns: Both types have a bathroom and kitchen and the vehicle is fully wheelchair accessible. We offer a vehicle model made for those who prefer to drive and one that’s geared toward passengers only. The passenger model features an electric height-adjustable bed. Meanwhile, the driver model requires some manual and mechanical maneuvering by the user. The bed is a pull out.

What makes these recreational vehicles so unique?

Sodermanns: The vehicles are fully wheelchair accessible and maneuverable. From the front door to the bathroom, wheelchair users can easily maneuver through the vehicle. Thanks to its wheelchair accessible conversion, the Opel Movano can be independently driven and operated by people with disabilities. It is perfectly suitable for those who prefer to drive themselves, provided the driver is able to move onto the driver’s seat on his/her own. Using the kitchen with its refrigerator and filling the fresh water tank is also a breeze since everything was adapted to accommodate the height requirements of wheelchair users.

Who are the best candidates for these motorhomes?

Sodermanns: The motorhomes are suited for both drivers and passengers. One of the models is specifically equipped to accommodate drivers thanks to the mechanical hand controls to operate the gas and brakes and a multifunction steering wheel spinner knob. This conversion is perfect for customers with a variety of impairments, including paraplegics, people with spina bifida or amputated limbs. The vehicle also has an automatic transmission, allowing people to drive after a stroke and left-side paralysis. It is important that the corresponding driver’s license restriction is on file. Despite the adaptations, pedestrians can use the vehicle in the serial version.

Passengers have the option of being moved to the passenger seat or remaining in a wheelchair during trips. Entry into the motorhomes is made possible by a lift on the side, making strenuous transfers unnecessary.

What do customers have to keep in mind when they are interested in renting this type of motorhome?

Sodermanns: Customers need to consider whether they are able to make the transfer into the seat on their own and whether they are able to cover the height distance between the wheelchair and the swivel driver or front passenger seat. The customer must also have the respective driver license to be able to drive the motorhome independently. The wheelchair width is also an important consideration. In the conversion phase, we tried to create the largest possible space for movement. However, there are obviously limits to the available space.

How strong is the demand at this point?

Sodermanns: The Opel Movano Reha Camper is always fully rented out every year in the spring and summer months. Our motorhomes have seen the world, from the "Rock am Ring" music festival to the Rock of Gibraltar all the way up to Norway.

Are you planning other models at this stage?

Sodermanns: Yes, we are. At REHACARE, we will showcase a motorhome with a so-called "cargo carrier". This carrier is much larger. Just wait and see. You will be amazed.

Why do you think accessible motorhomes are crucial to living a self-determined life?

Sodermanns: After a stroke, accident etc. many people worry that they are no longer able to pursue their hobbies or passions. But they can still do it all with an accessible motorhome – true to the motto: Once a camper, always a camper!