BMW launched a Plump My Ride initiative, geared towards making their vehicles driveable by 95% of the population, no matter what their weight.
With the goal of ergonomic improvmentsBMW evaluated the impact of obesity on mobility behind the wheel and looked to better understand the needs of the heavy with their Plump My Ride program.
A total of 800 volunteers took part in a study ordered by BMW. From seat size to pedal placement to door openings, nothing was overlooked.
In the last 50 years, our cars have become over a foot wider and their weight has doubled. The expansion is limited by the width of our roads, however, as we lack the space to make them any bigger.
So some automakers have come up with creative solutions:
Mercedes-Benz plans on strengthening the grab handles on its doors to help heavier passengers support themselves when climbing in or out. Porsche has equipped some models with a steering column that rises when the engine is turned off so big bellies can pass without trouble. And Honda has widened its seats by two inches to accommodate obese drivers.
With the goal of ergonomic improvmentsBMW evaluated the impact of obesity on mobility behind the wheel and looked to better understand the needs of the heavy with their Plump My Ride program.
A total of 800 volunteers took part in a study ordered by BMW. From seat size to pedal placement to door openings, nothing was overlooked.
In the last 50 years, our cars have become over a foot wider and their weight has doubled. The expansion is limited by the width of our roads, however, as we lack the space to make them any bigger.
So some automakers have come up with creative solutions:
Mercedes-Benz plans on strengthening the grab handles on its doors to help heavier passengers support themselves when climbing in or out. Porsche has equipped some models with a steering column that rises when the engine is turned off so big bellies can pass without trouble. And Honda has widened its seats by two inches to accommodate obese drivers.