Big companies and startups alike have been working and developing on future technology to make an autonomous vehicle as relaxing and reliable as it can be. They have been researching on aerodynamic designs that feature the most comfort for its occupants while not compromising safety. There is one thing, however, that could be the major deal breaker of these cars when it comes to comfort, that would be the seats.
The Unsung Hero Of Car Comfort
Up to this date, car companies and tech developers have been talking about how good their autonomous hardware and software is. But of course, those things, no matter how good they are, would be a waste if the driver and occupants to not reach their optimum comfort position in their seats. That is the very reason that Adient, manufacturer of car seats, exist.
Formerly Part Of Johnson Control
Adient was formerly a part of Johnson Control's Automotive Experience Division. The company just unveiled their concept of what futuristic seats would look like, feel like, and how it would function as part of an autonomous vehicle. None other than the vice president of Adient, Richard Chung, did the demonstration at the North American International Auto Show on Monday.
The A117 Car Seat Goes Way Beyond Luxury And Technology
The A117, is a luxury seat designed for autonomous vehicles and aims to give its occupants the comfort and ride quality that autonomous vehicles deserve. The front seats swivel whenever the doors open and closes, making entry and exit of the vehicle much easier than conventional car seats. The seats can also switch to what the company calls "zero gravity" position once the vehicle fully engages in autonomous driving. The seat can go to a deep recline to provide the optimum position without causing unnecessary stress to the person seating,
The Adient A117 luxury car seats also feature controls that are embedded and rise up from the armrests. The rear seats also have features that can make it go to deeper reclines than the front seats. Chung said that the seats would be ready for production and for a commercial debut by the year 2020. Manufacturers are targeting 2021 for fully functional autonomous vehicles, which means that they still have a chance to install the Adient seats in their cars before hitting public roads and highways.
One Of The Largest Seat Manufacturer Globally
Unknown to many, Adient is one of the world's largest automotive seating suppliers. Adient manufactures precisely crafted materials to help car manufacturers reach unique but cost-efficient interiors and seats for their luxury cars. The company also features what they call 3D CNC sewing that creates a surface with a handcrafted appearance in limitless designs and style. They also use full grain leather that defines craftsmanship, quality and durability.
Adient's Hidden Pull Down Technology allows for concave shapes without expensive forming material and technology. The A117 also feature a manual four-way headrest that features ideal positioned handles. The headrest also adds to improved safety, style and comfort.
