If you’re looking for a cost-effective and convenient way to transport people, bus conversions are an excellent option. At Auto Extras Group, we specialize in converting standard cargo vans into comfortable passenger vans that can be used for a variety of purposes. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of bus conversions and the features we offer to make your ride as comfortable as possible. Benefits of Bus Conversions There are several benefits of bus conversions that make them a popular choice for various industries. First and foremost, they are an affordable option for those who need to transport large groups of people. Compared to buying a brand new bus, converting a standard cargo van is significantly cheaper. Additionally, bus conversions can be customized to meet the specific needs of your business or organization. Whether you need a vehicle for airport transfers, community transportation, or childcare, our team at Auto Extras Group can modify the van to suit your requirements. Features of Our Bus Conversions At Auto Extras Group, we offer a wide range of features to ensure that your bus conversion is as comfortable and safe as possible. Here are some of the features we offer: – Comfortable and stylish coach seating: Our coach seating is designed to provide maximum comfort to passengers during long journeys. – Optional leather trim for seating: For an added touch of luxury, we offer optional leather trim for the seating. – Up to 15 seats: Depending on your requirements, we can install up to 15 seats in the van. – Floor and wall linings: We install high-quality floor and wall linings to ensure that the interior of the van is easy to clean and maintain. – Access assist handles: We install access assist handles to make it easier for passengers to enter and exit the van. – Manual and Electric Access Steps: We offer both manual and electric access steps to ensure that passengers can get in and out of the van safely. – Windows and Tinting: We install windows and tinting to provide passengers with a clear view of the outside while also ensuring their privacy. – Audio system: We install an audio system to provide passengers with entertainment during the ride. – Rear air-conditioning and electrical power outlets: To ensure that passengers are comfortable, we install rear air-conditioning and electrical power outlets. – Rear cargo barriers: For safety reasons, we install rear cargo barriers to prevent luggage from moving around during the ride. – Wheelchair access and wheelchair restraints: We offer wheelchair access and wheelchair restraints to ensure that passengers with disabilities can travel safely and comfortably. All of our bus conversions are certified and compliant with relevant standards to ensure that they are safe and reliable. Bus conversions are an excellent way to transport large groups of people without breaking the bank. At Auto Extras Group, we specialize in converting standard cargo vans into comfortable and safe passenger vans that can be customized to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle for airport transfers, community transportation, or childcare, our team of experts can help you find the perfect solution. Give us a call today to discuss your bus conversion on 1800 811 626 Check this page for more information!

Wheelchair accessibility is a crucial aspect of mobility for individuals with disabilities. It is essential to ensure that they can access public spaces, buildings, and vehicles easily. This is where bi-fold wheelchair ramps come in. They offer a cost-effective and effortless solution to the challenge of providing wheelchair access into the rear of medium to large-sized vans. Here are some of the advantages of using bi-fold wheelchair ramps: 1. Ease of use and convenience The bi-fold ramp is designed for hassle-free loading and unloading of wheelchairs and scooters into mobility vans. It can be easily folded out of a vehicle door to the ground and when not in use, it folds inside the vehicle for compact storage. The manual bi-fold ramp is gas-assisted for ease of use, and the powered bi-fold ramp is conveniently operated via a corded remote handpiece. 2. Space-saving design The bi-fold ramp takes up minimal space in a vehicle, making it ideal for medium to large-sized vans. It is also easily removable and lightweight, which means it can be taken out of the vehicle when not needed. This feature allows for more flexibility in the use of the vehicle. 3. Cost-effective Bi-fold ramps are a cost-effective solution compared to other wheelchair ramp options. They are suitable for those who are looking for an economical option for wheelchair access into the rear of a vehicle. 4. Load rating Bi-fold ramps come in different load ratings, ranging from 300kgs through to 1000kg. This feature makes them suitable for different types of wheelchairs and scooters. 5. Quick installation Installation of bi-fold ramps takes only one day, making it a quick and hassle-free process. This feature is particularly important for those who need to use the vehicle as soon as possible. 6. Versatility Bi-fold ramps are not only suitable for wheelchair access into the rear of a vehicle. They are also used extensively for other vehicle loading requirements. They offer a versatile solution for loading and unloading of items into a vehicle. In conclusion, bi-fold wheelchair ramps are an excellent solution for those looking for a cost-effective, space-saving, and hassle-free option for wheelchair access into a medium to large-sized van. They offer convenience, versatility, and ease of use, making them an essential accessory for anyone who needs to transport a wheelchair or scooter in a vehicle. If you are considering a bi-fold ramp, contact us for more information on the best options to suit your needs. Check out our range of ramps here! https://autoextras.com.au/products/?service-type[]=mobility&product-category[]=ramps

If you or a loved one rely on a wheelchair for mobility, you know how important it is to have a vehicle that can accommodate your needs. Whether you’re getting your first wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) or thinking of making some modifications to your existing vehicle, there are some important aspects to consider to ensure your safety and comfort. In this blog post, we’ll discuss five things to consider with your wheelchair accessible vehicle. 1. Wheelchair or Car Seat?When deciding on wheelchair accessible modifications for your vehicle, you’ll need to decide whether you prefer to stay in your wheelchair for the journey or transfer to a seat within the vehicle. At Auto Extras, we offer conversions for either option. If you prefer to travel in your wheelchair or scooter, a wheelchair loader will make your transition from van to ground (and back again) as easy as possible. Another option is a lowered floor, which allows you to drive straight into the vehicle. For simpler conversions, and those who prefer to travel in one of the vehicle’s existing seats, transfer aids are offered. The Milford person lift and tip-up plates can both be installed into even the smallest two and three-door vehicles. For larger vehicles, another option is turny seats that swivel and extend past the vehicle door frame. 2. ParkingWhether you’re parking at home or out, you’ll need extra space to park your wheelchair accessible vehicle. The amount of space required will depend on your modifications and whether you choose to travel in your chair or transfer. Generally speaking, though, you’ll need to allow at least three meters of space at the point you enter and exit the vehicle. 3. InsuranceWhen your car has been converted for a driver or passenger with a disability, it can often be hard to find insurance coverage. This is due to insurance companies not understanding disabilities and instead considering WAV owners to be high-risk drivers. Often though, drivers of wheelchair accessible vehicles are safer drivers and present a lower risk. Finding the right insurance company that understands this is key. Check out Blue Badge Insurance and Allianz Insurance for tailored insurance packages for your wheelchair accessible vehicle. 4. MaintenanceAs with any vehicle, it’s important not to skip out on any maintenance. Many customers are proactive with initial modifications to their vehicle, but are often lacking when it comes to regular maintenance. A thorough service for a modified vehicle will check wheelchair docking services, mobility driving aids, ramps, steps, and handrails, as well as all the standard vehicle components like suspension, wheel alignment, and fuel lines. Wheelchair restraints generally have four mounting points, and automatic or manual retractors. It’s important to service these regularly, along with the tracks or discs the retractors are mounted on. 5. CarersIf you rely on a carer or support worker to transfer or drive your car, you’ll need to make sure they know how to use all the modifications. At Auto Extras, you’ll receive a full rundown on how to use all your modifications. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have with any of your modifications. In conclusion, a wheelchair accessible vehicle can provide freedom and independence to those with mobility needs. By considering these five aspects when choosing or modifying your vehicle, you can ensure that your vehicle is not only safe and comfortable but also meets your specific needs.

Driving is a crucial aspect of independence, allowing individuals to access their workplace, education, and social activities. However, for people with disabilities, driving can be a challenge. Fortunately, with advancements in technology, specially designed hand controls can help disabled drivers get back behind the wheel. In this blog, we will discuss how hand controls can enhance mobility for disabled drivers. 1. Mechanical Hand Controls: Mechanical hand controls are designed to allow left or right-handed control of the brake and accelerator. At Auto Extras, we offer two variations of mechanical hand controls with a trigger action and radial action mechanical accelerators. Our hand controls are designed to provide natural, low fatigue operation. 2. Push/Pull Hand Controls: The push/pull hand control system is used by pushing to brake and pulling towards you to accelerate. By installing a push/pull system, drivers can use indicators, wipers and a horn while keeping their hands on the controls, providing greater security. 3. Push-Pat Hand Controls: Push-pat hand controls are similar to the push/pull hand controls, but they operate in a radial motion. This means you push towards the dash for brakes and pat/downward push for acceleration. Push-pat controls are ideal for quadriplegics and drivers with very limited to no dexterity. 4. Spinner Knobs & Handles: Spinner knobs and handles provide a better grip on the steering wheel and can operate up to 20 vehicle accessories. At Auto Extras, we offer a range of spinner knobs, including standard spinner knobs, mono-spin spinner, tri-spin spinner, Easy Spin and Logensons Lollipop Grip Multi-Function. In conclusion, if you’re a disabled driver, hand controls can provide you with the freedom and independence you need to get back behind the wheel. At Auto Extras, we have decades of experience in specifying and installing mobility driving aids in Brisbane. We work closely with occupational therapists to achieve the best possible results for each client. Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the right hand controls to enhance your mobility and provide you with the freedom to drive again. Check out our full range here! https://autoextras.com.au/products/?service-type[]=mobility&product-category[]=hand-controls-driver-assistance

For people with disabilities, modified vehicles provide a convenient and accessible mode of transportation. However, it’s crucial to ensure that these vehicles are maintained to the highest standards to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers. In this blog, we will discuss what you need to know about servicing and repairing modified disability vehicles. What does a modified vehicle service entail? Regular servicing of modified vehicles is essential to ensure they adhere to safety requirements. A thorough service covers all aspects of the vehicle, including wheel alignment, exhaust systems, fuel lines, and suspension components. The service will also focus on ensuring that wheelchair docking stations and lifting devices are working perfectly and that all metal and moving components are checked for rust and proper lubrication. Areas to focus on. Services and repairs can vary depending on the modified vehicle’s fit-out. Therefore, it’s essential to seek knowledgeable advice from experts in mobility vehicles. For instance, owners with a Milford Person Lift need to ensure that the lifting arm’s multiple pivot points are well-lubricated and that the metal supports haven’t started to rust. Those with a turn-y seat need to check the electrical components and ensure that the chair’s tracks offer a smooth swivel motion. Safety isn’t just about seatbelts. In addition to checking seatbelts, modified disability vehicles come with other safety elements that need to be assessed. This includes wheelchair restraints, which generally have four mounting points and automatic or manual retractors. These must be serviced and repaired (if needed), along with the tracks or discs on which they’re mounted. Steps and handrails should also be assessed, especially automatic slide-out steps mounted under the vehicle, which can become stiff and malfunction without proper care. Other accessories A complete and thorough service should also cover the unique and standard accessories of your vehicle, including reverse cameras, tie-down points, window tinting, and power outlets. It’s also important to ensure you have necessary emergency tools such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and escape hammers. Is your vehicle up to standard? After getting your vehicle modified for transporting disabled passengers, the next step is to ensure these modifications and the vehicle itself are maintained through regular servicing and repairs. At Auto Extras, we offer sound advice on keeping everything in a premium and safe state. In conclusion, it’s vital to maintain modified disability vehicles to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers. Regular servicing and repairs are necessary to keep these vehicles in top condition. Seek expert advice from professionals who specialize in mobility vehicles to ensure your vehicle is up to standard. At Auto Extras, we strive to maintain the highest quality and safety standards in everything we do. Get in contact with us today to book your next service!

For business owners who rely on transporting tools, equipment, or other products, their vehicles are the most vital component of their business. Ensuring that your commercial vehicle is efficient, safe, and productive is essential to the success of your business. This is where commercial vehicle fit-outs come in. At Auto Extras, we are industry leaders in commercial vehicle fit-outs, and we want to ensure that every customer drives away completely satisfied with their vehicles. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the things you need to know about commercial vehicle fit-outs. Barriers Depending on your requirements, a barrier installation is an option to consider for your commercial vehicle fit-out. For particular industries, having a barrier in your vehicle can assist with equipment storage as well as extra protection for the driver. A variety of barriers are available, including mesh cargo, vapour resistant, and dual-positioning, as well as air-conditioning curtains. These barriers can provide added safety and security for your equipment and driver. Shelving One important aspect of a commercial vehicle fit-out is ensuring your vehicle’s interior space is maximized. Installing shelf storage allows more room for larger pieces of equipment to be stored on the floor of your van. The end result will be a clean and organized work vehicle, which will help you and your team work more efficiently. Van Accessories Whether you’re after reversing light alarms, bull bars or nudge bars, roof racks, tow bars, and roof vents, Auto Extras offer a wide variety of van accessories to suit every commercial vehicle fit-out. Regardless of how big or small the fit-out is, we strive to provide our customers with a vehicle that meets all their business needs. Van Lining Depending on the work you’re carrying out with your commercial vehicle, installing robust flooring and walls into your van is something our customers should consider. Flooring with a non-slip tread is ideal for commercial vehicles as it provides added safety for the operator as well as security for equipment being stored inside. We offer plywood, mesh, and rubber cargo walls and flooring, as well as carpet and vinyl options. Windows Windows not only increase driver visibility, but they also provide passengers and or valuable work equipment with added privacy and security. Here at Auto Extras, our windows are made from fixed or sliding formats. Every window installed in one of our commercial vehicle fit-outs is made from industrial-toughened glass, and all window openings are rust-proof. This ensures the vehicle’s quality and longevity. Each installation also comes with a five-year warranty, and we offer window tinting on request. Seating To ensure the highest quality, safety, and longevity, we install Tech Safe seating across all our commercial vehicle fit-outs. We offer a number of suitable seating types including side-folding seats, fixed coach seats (perfect for minibuses), and our range of classic, premier, and safety excel van seats. Headrests and armrests are also available as an added extra, and we can upholster them according to each customer’s requirements. In conclusion, commercial vehicle fit-outs are essential for business owners who rely on their vehicles for transportation. At Auto Extras, we understand how important your commercial vehicle is to your business, and we are committed to providing you with the best possible fit-out solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our commercial vehicle fit-out services. See our full range of commercial products here! https://autoextras.com.au/products/?service-type[]=commercial

For people with disabilities, accessing standard model cars can be a challenge. Many are forced to rely solely on accessible taxis and public transport to get around. However, there are ways to modify cars to make them more accessible for drivers and passengers with disabilities. Rapidly improving technologies mean that more and more people with disabilities are now able to drive independently, providing freedom and independence for many people living with a disability and their families. To help make understanding vehicle hand controls a little easier, we’ve put together a ‘Must Know Guide To Vehicle Hand Controls’. One of the most common methods of vehicle modification is the installation of vehicle hand controls. These controls provide paraplegics and people with reduced leg mobility freedom through the ability to drive. When choosing vehicle hand controls, it is important to consult an expert who will help you determine the right type of hand controls for your vehicle and the nature of your disability. Luckily, there is a wide range of vehicle hand controls available to meet the needs of every driver, maximizing driver safety and proficiency. Mechanical hand controls allow drivers to brake and accelerate more efficiently. Hand driving controls are the most common driving control, as they transfer functions normally accessed by the feet to hand control. There are a range of mechanical hand controls available for installation into a vehicle, including over ring hand controls which are mounted onto the steering wheel, push-pull and push-pat triggers which allow acceleration and braking by a simple hand movement, and satellite controls which are worn by the driver like a glove. A keypad control allows people with restricted mobility to operate the secondary functions of a car safely with one hand. The keypad controls allow the user to easily operate the vehicle’s indicators, headlights, wipers, and horn. Often a person’s ability to engage with the steering wheel is affected by their disability. Auto Extras can supply a range of options to assist with this, from a simple spinner knob to bespoke steering aids tailor-made to suit a specific disability. With rapidly improving technologies, more and more people with disabilities are now able to drive independently, and Auto Extras is proud to have the expertise and experience to provide drivers with the right mobility driving aids for their mobility needs. In conclusion, vehicle hand controls are an excellent solution for people with disabilities who want to drive independently. With the right modifications, anyone can enjoy the freedom and independence of driving. Consult with an expert to determine the best hand controls for your specific needs and make sure to choose a reputable company with experience in installing vehicle hand controls. Check out our full range of hand controls here! https://autoextras.com.au/products/page/2/?service-type%5B0%5D=mobility&product-category%5B0%5D=hand-controls-driver-assistance

If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for wheelchair access, bi-fold ramps are the perfect option. With the ability to easily fold out of a vehicle door to the ground, these ramps provide hassle-free loading and unloading of wheelchairs and scooters into mobility vans. Auto Extras, a specialist in vehicle customisation, offers the Fadiel Italiana Movia Ramp, which is specifically designed for effortless and cost-effective operation. The Fadiel ramp is supplied by Total Ability and is equipped with advanced technology to produce lightweight aluminium ramps with distinctive features that others on the market do not supply. These ramps come in both manual and electric forms. One of the key features of the Fadiel ramp is its bi-fold operation with gas strut assistance, which makes it easy to fold in and out with just one hand. The ramp is also rated to 300kgs, making it strong enough to accommodate most mobility devices. Additionally, it’s easily removable and lightweight, making it easy to store in the vehicle when not in use. Another advantage of the Fadiel ramp is that it takes up minimal space in the vehicle, allowing for more room for passengers and other equipment. It’s also cost-effective compared to other options on the market, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. Finally, the Fadiel ramp can be installed in just one day, and there is also a manual ramp available to suit power wheelchairs. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and convenient ramp for your mobility van, the Fadiel lightweight ramp is an excellent choice. If you want to know more about the Fadiel ramp or any other vehicle customisation services, feel free to contact Auto Extras for more information. Check out the options below!

Are you looking for the perfect seating option for your van? Look no further than Auto Extras! We offer a variety of seat styles to fit every need, whether it’s space efficiency or budget constraints. Let’s dive into the different options available and find the best one for you. First up, we have the Forward Folding, Removable Van Seats. These seats are available in single, double, or triple bench options and are perfect for smaller vans where space efficiency is key. When not needed, they can be tumbled forward and easily removed from the vehicle. This style of seat is ideal for tradies who need extra seats for the weekend, especially for the kids. There are a variety of options available, including an economy or luxury version with matching upholstery. All Auto Extras seats come with standard features such as child anchors, seatbelts, and engineering certificates. If you’re working with a larger van or dual cab ute, the Centre Jump Seats may be the perfect option for you. These compact seats can be fitted between the front driver and passenger seats to convert a 2 seat van into a 3 seater or a 5 seat dual cab ute into a 6 seater. This is ideal for families who want to travel together. Next up, we have the Coach Seating. These seats are available in single or double and come with an integrated seat belt and child anchor point. We can even match the genuine trim in most situations. These seats are perfect for larger vans and work well for Community Transport Organizations, Respite Care, and Tour Guides. Finally, if you have too many kids and not enough seats, look no further than the Retro Seats. We are able to fit child seats into the rear of some SUVs, suitable for children up to 12 years of age. These seats fold forward when not required and can be easily removed when you need more room. All Auto Extras seats are certified and meet or exceed the relevant design rules. So, whether you need space efficiency or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered. For all these options plus more, visit this page to find the seat that is right for you! https://autoextras.com.au/products/?service-type[]=commercial&product-category[]=seats

If you or a loved one use a wheelchair, you know how important it is to have a reliable and safe way to transport it. That’s where wheelchair loaders come in – they allow you to easily load and unload your wheelchair into a vehicle, making transportation much more accessible and convenient. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about wheelchair loaders, including which brands and models are the most reliable, and what to look for when choosing a wheelchair loader for your vehicle. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that all wheelchair loaders have a safe working load (SWL) of 350kg. For special applications, a Bariatric model is available with a 500kg SWL. This means that no matter which brand or model you choose, you can trust that it will be able to safely handle your wheelchair. At Auto Extras, we’ve installed many wheelchair loaders over the past 15 years, and we’ve concluded that the Braun Wheelchair Loaders are the most reliable and hassle-free brand on the market. They come with an excellent warranty of 5 years, and have great service and spare parts back-up to boot. When it comes to choosing a model, there are three main types of Braun Wheelchair Loaders to choose from: 1. The Solid Wheelchair Platform: This model is suitable for large community transport organization vans. They are robust and durable, making them perfect for high-use environments. 2. The Vertical Split Wheelchair Platform: These are ideal for Toyota commuter buses. As the platform travels into the van, it opens up, allowing access past the hoist into the wheelchair area. This makes it very easy to secure the wheelchair just in front of the hoist. 3. The Horizontal Split Wheelchair Platform: These are most suited for smaller vans with lower entry through the tailgate, such as the VW Multivan or Hyundai iMax. When the platform travels up to the home position, it telescopes down to stow into the opening. When the platform is in the horizontal loading position, there is a 1300mm long area for easier operation. No matter which model you choose, Auto Extras offers a 5-year warranty on all wheelchair loaders we install, which is maintained by a scheduled service program. Each loader has a service log that is filled out at each service, and a 65 Point Safety Report is left with the owner. This ensures that our 5-year warranty remains current. After installation, the van is checked over by an engineer and approved. This means that the modification made to your vehicle is legal and meets Australian standards. In conclusion, wheelchair loaders are a crucial component for those who use wheelchairs, and choosing the right brand and model is important to ensure safety and reliability. At Auto Extras, we recommend the Braun Wheelchair Loaders for their excellent warranty and service, and offer a variety of models to suit different needs. If you’re interested in learning more about wheelchair loaders or need assistance with funding options, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help. You can also check out these product pages for more details or to submit an enquiry!

Driving is an essential part of life, and everyone should be able to enjoy the freedom of hitting the open road. However, for people with disabilities, driving can be a challenge. That’s where hand controls come in. They allow people with limited mobility in their legs to drive a vehicle safely and comfortably. Manual hand controls come in two actions: the push/pat and the push/pull. The push/pat action involves pushing forward on the control lever to brake and dropping the lever to accelerate. On the other hand, the push/pull action is to push to brake and pull back to accelerate. It’s important to note that the push/pat action is often prescribed by occupational therapists (OTs) due to the reduced effort required for the acceleration action. Dropping the control lever requires less strain on the shoulders than pulling it back. This makes the push/pat action a more suitable option for people with limited upper body strength. Moreover, multi-function controls can be included on the control lever to operate the lights, indicators, and horn without releasing the hand grip. This makes it easier for the driver to focus on the road and operate the vehicle safely. However, with the introduction of the knee airbag into modern vehicles, there are limitations to the applications of manual hand controls. Queensland Transport will not permit the relaxation of any safety features fitted to a vehicle. This requires an electronic hand control that will be covered in a later article. In conclusion, manual hand controls are a great way to provide independence and mobility to people with disabilities. Understanding the two actions and consulting with an OT can help determine the best option for each individual’s needs. With the right equipment, everyone can enjoy the freedom of driving. For more information, check out these products!

The freedom and independence that comes with driving is an important part of life for many people. However, for those who have lost mobility in their right foot, driving can become a daunting and challenging task. This is where the Left Foot Accelerator comes in. The Left Foot Accelerator is a modification that can be added to a vehicle to help individuals with limited mobility in their right foot to operate the accelerator pedal with their left foot. The carriage is typically floor-mounted, just in front of the pedal, and has a quick-release function for easy removal. The Left Foot Accelerator transfers the action from the left pedal across the right, allowing the driver to control the speed of the vehicle with their left foot. Additionally, a guard is placed over the right pedal to prevent inadvertent operation. It is important to note that individuals who use the Left Foot Accelerator should receive driving lessons before operating a vehicle with the modification. This will help ensure that they are comfortable and confident behind the wheel. At Auto Extras, we understand that every client’s needs are unique. Our team of experts can advise on the best options for the client and their vehicle. All Left Foot Accelerators are approved by QLD Transport and signed off by our Approved Person. In conclusion, the Left Foot Accelerator is a valuable modification that can help individuals with limited mobility in their right foot to maintain their independence and enjoy the freedom of driving. With the right training and support, individuals can confidently operate a vehicle with this modification and continue to live life to the fullest. Check out these products for more information or to get in touch with us!