It is high - like hopping into a truck. Takes a bit of getting used to for those who are mobile limited or just short. 😎

 

I Installed the factory running boards on a minivan because they didn’t drop down 2” lower like the aftermarket ones. The latter were easier to step on but could high center at the top of a sloped driveway. Something to consider especially with the long wheelbase of the Buzz.

 

When our Buzz arrives in about a month and a half (dealer estimate), it will be used at times to transport my physically impaired parents. (Future lack of storage space for the Odyssey we use now is leading to the trade-in of that and our ID.4 on the Buzz).

My solution to the problem of the van's elevated floor was to purchase a folding metal stool with a rubber walking surface. We place that in front of the open sliding door and they're able to step up onto the stool and from there into the seat. We help them buckle their seatbelt since it can be hard for them to reach behind themselves to do it.

I am able to get into the van's driver's seat without any trouble. I'm assuming/guessing that the Buzz has a similar ride height from what I've seen in photos and videos, and an upright driving position is more comfortable to me than the step-down needed for a regular car (the ID.4 is perfect for me right now, too).

Once my parents are buckled in, they're comfortable and they like the roominess.

Alas, if your relative is the driver, that isn't as viable a solution because then they can't put the stool away once they're in the seat.

 

Alas, if your relative is the driver, that isn't as viable a solution because then they can't put the stool away once they're in the seat.

They might be able to find a step stool that has a handle. They would be able to use that to pull the stool into the vehicle once seated, assuming it is not to heavy.

Amazon.com

 

I agree! So far this (and not being able to access a manual) are my biggest beefs.

 

I’m confused. If the elderly lady is going to be driving without someone, even a child, to assist her by retrieving a step stool, why does she need to drive a high floor height bus?

 

The whole household probably does not all go out together all the time? If the elderly lady does not normally do the driving but sometimes needs to get somewhere on her own? It would seem one vehicle to suit all is needed so looking for a solution. Me too. My mum has to use a stool to get in but I'd prefer some side steps which don't appear to be readily available in the UK.

 

My 90 year old walker bound mom finds it easier to get in and out of my ID4 than her Fusion sedan. She’s 4’11”. But the key word in the OP’s statement seems to be all of the cargo so maybe the portable step is best.

 

I was confronted with this issue about 12 years ago, So I ordered some running boards from online to install on my Parents Kia minivan, Lucky for me i have a Fabshop, It also helped that my specialty is doing the impossible, It wasn’t a straightforward install, takes a fair bit of fabrication and bracing to be act usable.

Guess the main point is, Most decent fab shops should be able to facilitate installation of a design of your choosing.

 

It definitely help petite size owners too!