More than a dozen new products or advances in existing mobility technologies were introduced. The most notable was VMI's launch of the Honda Odyssey Accessible Mini-Van. Doug Eaton, President & CEO of VMI presided over the unveiling of the proto-type (see video) and their partnership with the Japanese auto-maker at the Aquarium of The Pacific, in a well attended, elegantly catered affair just outside the Honda Theatre. Terri Mullen, VMI Product manager responsible for the design, called for the unveiling, and Eaton had this to say, "This is the culmination of 16 months of research about our physically challenged consumers needs in relation to transportation solutions, and our new partnership will provide new and unique opportunities for those with special mobility requirements".
Ford, GM, DaimlerChrysler, and Toyota were all prominently present at the conference, actively supporting and participating in the educational curriculum, and playing a major role in the development of new product designs and safety guidelines - a major aspect of the conference which brings together the top engineers and designers to discuss the future of mobility options for consumers. Ford's Director of Specialty Vehicle Sales, Ken Farr emphasized the importance of the conference as a forum for ideas to advance mobi lity, and said "NMEDA is a venue where Ford can connect with other manufacturers and dealers to discuss the rapidly changing mobility environment in order to better serve our customers needs".
The latest in wheelchair locking systems was also on display as Permobil, Q'straint, and EZ-LOCK showcased improved performance locking systems designed to offer customers the chance to be a passenger or take control of the wheel!
The 2006 NMEDA Conference brought together a variety of unique and innovative companies dedicated to providing more mobility and transportation options for the special needs community. The organization itself is doing its part to elevate standards through its QAP Program, its ongoing review of safety standards and measures, and it continued commitment to educating the industry. The manufacturers and dealers that are offering mobility products and services are thriving in this environment, and as such are able to offer better solutions to the community, and more closely fit their needs. NMEDA's growing influence in the mobility industry can largely be attributed to the efforts of the groups Executive Director, Dana Roeling, who has for the past 4 years aggressively promoted the organization, overseeing sweeping enhanceme nts to the QAP Program (Quality Assurance Program) and developing relationships with countless other organizations with the same goals and objectives. For more information on NMEDA and their dealers, please visit their web-site at www.nmeda.org