​​New wheelchair-accessible SUV – the next-generation BraunAbility Traverse​ 

With the redesign of the Traverse for the 2024 model year, Chevrolet has given it more capability and usability without making it any less affordable to the average American who needs a cost-conscious 3-row SUV. BraunAbility has transformed the Traverse into the ultimate wheelchair-accessible SUV.  

Who Is BraunAbility 

Founded by Ralph Braun in 1972, BraunAbility has been building wheelchair-accessible vans and vehicles for companies like Chevrolet, as well as providing lifts, special vehicle seating, and various commercial products. The founder had spinal muscular atrophy and refused to be any less mobile than those in his life. From the 1960s, Braun began developing and engineering his own motorized scooters and, later, accessible vans.  

A Custom Traverse for A Hero 

It is fitting, then, that Chevrolet and BraunAbility collaborated to provide a new wheelchair-accessible Traverse LT to retired U.S. Army Sergeant Nick Koulchar. Sgt. Koulchar was a combat engineer and gunner in Alpha Company, 40th Engineers, Task Force 1/6. Sadly, he lost both of his legs in a vehicle explosion from an IED.  

Sgt. Koulchar Has Accomplished More Than Most 

Even without his legs, Nick remains very active as a hunter and weightlifter, and has competed in 40 marathons. He is also a celebrated handcyclist with a team that consists of other disabled veterans called the Achilles Freedom Team.  

A Message from Nick Koulchar 

“Everybody has the power to turn their trauma into a positive,” said Koulchar. “People see the missing legs as a disadvantage, but I see them as a superpower.” 

What Powers the Traverse 

The 2026 Chevy Traverse is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth and smart 8-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse comes standard with front-wheel drive and can be optioned with all-wheel drive. The EPA reports that owners can expect 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, respectively, with FWD, and 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with AWD.  

Plenty of Space for Everyone 

With three rows of seats, there is plenty of space for passengers and all of their luggage. Behind the third row, you will find 23 cubic feet of cargo space that increases to 58 cubic feet. when the third row is folded. With both rear rows of seats folded down, the Traverse offers a massive 98 cubic feet of space.  

Technology Is Something That Makes the Traverse So Great 

Technology is another area where the Traverse stands apart from its competition. It has a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, an 11-inch digital instrument display, USB ports throughout the cabin, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.  

Chevrolet Engineered the Traverse to Be Incredibly Safe 

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has ranked the Traverse as one of the safest vehicles on the market today and awarded it with its coveted Top Safety Pick designation, helping consumers know which vehicles are the best and safest.  

Barry’s Chevrolet Can Help You Get the Perfect Next Vehicle 

If you or someone you know needs a Chevrolet Traverse modified for wheelchair accessibility, Barry’s Chevrolet can help you find the right vehicle at the right price, which can then be modified by BraunAbility.  

Why Choose Barry’s Chevrolet  

Barry’s Chevrolet takes great pride in offering some of the best values around. Whether you are looking for a new or used car, we have hundreds of vehicles to choose from, and our wonderful sales team and finance department will work to give you the best price. When it’s time to take care of your car, truck, or SUV, our amazing service department will work hard to maintain your vehicle to the highest standards.