Being able to get into a minibus easily and safely is an extremely important purchase criterion, particularly for persons with reduced mobility. But being able to get in and out quickly and easily is also an advantage in the commercial sector, too. For this application, EDAG, the world's largest independent automotive engineering service provider has developed "EDpollux", an automatically retractable double step, and will in the autumn be starting its series production at the Testing and Vehicle Construction Centre at the Fulda site.
The patented product is a retrofit solution which does not interfere in the vehicle structure in any way whatsoever. With its integrated motor, the boarding device is extended or retracted automatically or by pressing a button when the sliding side door is opened or closed. The steps, which barely restrict the ground clearance of the vehicle, have a load bearing capacity of 250 kg, and so are ideal for any everyday situation.
EDAG's in-house development "EDpollux" can be ordered immediately as a retrofit solution for L2 and L3 wheelbase versions of the front-wheel drive Ford Transit models. In this context, the EDAG Group was certified by Ford as a QVM partner (Qualified Vehicle Modifier) on 18th October, 2018, and as a result is now authorised to modify motor vehicles for persons with reduced mobility.
The "EDpollux" solution was installed in a Ford Transit and presented to the public at Ford's stand at the recent IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 in Hanover.
"On account of the extremely positive reactions received from our customers in the automotive industry, we will be preparing and marketing our system for further vehicle types," explains Cosimo De Carlo, CEO of the EDAG Group. "EDpollux is a visible sign of our innovative strength and our fully integrated engineering portfolio – from the development of groundbreaking solutions to state-of-the-art low-volume production."