I've seen similar side steps on other vans (below the side passenger door). I understand it's an upfitter mod; are those generally welded to the frame or bolted on?
Believe they originated on Senior Mobility Vans, they fold down from the top to create a double step.
I came across a Shop that incorporated this concept into a very cool custom side step (Unfortunately he wasn't interested in making any additional units). Here is a Pic of his efforts: