Traveling with a wheelchair or mobility scooter offers more freedom—but getting your equipment in and out of your vehicle safely is not always simple. Fortunately, wheelchair lifts for vehicles make it easier to travel independently without having to lift or disassemble your mobility device each time you leave the house.
Whether you use a car, SUV, van, or truck, there are two main types of wheelchair lifts available: interior and exterior. Each type offers unique advantages depending on your vehicle and mobility needs.
Exterior Wheelchair Lifts
Exterior vehicle lifts attach to the back of your vehicle, often using a hitch-mounted system. These lifts securely carry your wheelchair or scooter on the outside, which keeps your interior space free for passengers, storage, or other equipment.
Benefits of Exterior Lifts:
- Don’t take up cargo or seating space inside your vehicle
- Easy to operate, with many models offering remote control functions
- Often transferable between vehicles
- Ideal for larger scooters or power chairs that may not fit inside
These lifts are great for users who can stand for a short period while operating the lift, and they’re especially popular among those who frequently travel and need a quick, convenient way to store and retrieve their device.
Interior Wheelchair Lifts
Interior vehicle lifts are installed inside your car, SUV, or van and are designed to lift your mobility device into the cargo area. There are different types of interior lifts, including platform lifts and hoist-style systems that swing the device into place.
Benefits of Interior Lifts:
- Protect your mobility equipment from weather and debris
- Offer discreet, secure storage while in transit
- Typically feature powered lifting systems for minimal effort
- Compatible with many vans, SUVs, and some trucks
Interior lifts work especially well for people who prefer to keep their equipment clean and protected. While they do take up some cargo space, many users find them worthwhile for the added convenience and security.
Which Wheelchair Lift Is Right for You?
Choosing between an interior and exterior lift depends on a few key factors:
- Type of vehicle (car, SUV, van, or truck)
- Size and weight of your mobility device
- Available cargo space
- How often you travel, and whether you’ll need regular access to other parts of your vehicle
Before purchasing any wheelchair lift, it’s important to speak with a mobility expert who can evaluate your needs and your vehicle’s specifications.
Find Vehicle Lift Solutions at BEK Medical
At BEK Medical, we offer a variety of interior and exterior wheelchair lifts to make transporting your mobility device safe, easy, and stress-free. Whether you need a lift for your car, van, SUV, or RV, we’ll help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Visit us online to explore available vehicle lift systems, or call today to speak with a team member in El Paso or Dallas. We’re here to walk you through your options and help you stay mobile—wherever the road takes you!
