On September 11, BusCon showed the new ride in town, the Vehicle Production Group's MV-1, at the Chicago Expo. BusCon takes place in Chicago at the Navy Pier and has been the most extensive gathering in the bus industry for over 17 years. This year at the convention, VPG Autos showed, in full display, the MV-1. Vendors and the expo spectators watched as a curtain was pulled and Erika Bogan, former Ms Wheelchair America, rolled down the ramp to the anxious on-lookers. Bruce Springteen's "Born in the U.S.A." played over the sound system, which was perfect for the American-made vehicle's unveiling.
Also in attendance, VPG invited the legends of Chicago to mix with the participants of BusCon. Invited were former Chicago Bears players, Keith Van Horne, Allan Ellis, & Calvin Thomas (all three pictured above), as well as two Chicago Bulls Cheerleaders, and Baseball Hall of Famer Ernie Banks from the Chicago Cubs.
Mark Buoniconti was also an honored guest. He spoke about the MV-1 and his association with VPG Autos, as well as his organization, the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. VPG CEO John Walsh spoke to the crowd about this universally accessible and "green" vehicle. Many of the attendees who had not seen the MV-1 where impressed with the retractable ramp and the interior space. After the unveiling, Walsh drew raffle tickets and gave away a total of $1,200.00 to three lucky winners!
It was a very successful show for VPG! Want to learn more about the MV-1? Visit the website at www.vpgautos.com.