Grand Plan for Europcar and Automobility

SYDNEY – July 6, 2012: Europcar Australia and Automobility Pty Ltd have announced an Australian first partnership by placing Kia Grand Carnival wheelchair accessible vehicles in Europcar’s rental fleet.

The project was conceived by Europcar’s Operations Director Matt Barker and Automobility’s Director Jeff Watters, who saw the need for high quality wheelchair accessible rental vehicles.

“Presently it is difficult for wheelchair bound people when they travel interstate,” said Europcar’s Operations Director Matt Barker.

“Until now they have been totally reliant on public transport or wheelchair accessible taxis to get around at their destination which can limit their independence and impact on the travel experience for them and their family.”

The new agreement is the result of customer feedback but also meets one of Europcar’s key promises, of providing a range of mobility solutions for all people during every stage of their life.

The project will commence in this month with the trial placement of a Kia Grand Carnival wheelchair accessible vehicle in the Europcar Melbourne Airport rental fleet.

The popularity of this vehicle will determine the extent of a national roll out of wheelchair accessible vehicles.

Automobility has a long standing relationship with Kia, with Kia Carnivals and Grand Carnivals representing a majority of their wheelchair accessible vehicle conversions.

“The Carnival range offers very good value for money with the list of safety and comfort features proving a real winner for our customers,” said Automobility Director Jeff Watters.

“We have been applying our patented independent rear suspension technology to Kia Carnivals for over 10 years.”

The Kia Carnival is Australia’s most popular people mover with a 33 per cent share of the market.