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| Booster seats are especially important for children past infancy. An integrated system, such as Grammar's is reportedly safer than externally mounted boosters. (Photo: Grammer Automotive AG) |
"The issue about adults not being able to read the instructions, which are supposed to be written at a 10th grade level is one thing, but there are a terrible number of incidents of injuries that happen to children in car accidents," he said. "We do a very good job at protecting infants... but the children who have outgrown rear facing infant seats often fall through the cracks."
Aftermarket booster seats, designed for toddlers and young children "are quite good for frontal impacts, but not as good in side collisions," Zumhagen noted.
Grammer, which is a supplier for many European designed and built cars, has created an adjustable child booster seat that is integrated into the manufacturer's rear seats. For example the Ford Galaxy, a European built van, can be equipped with a bench seat that includes one of Grammer's integrated booster seats. Closer to home, the Volkswagen Passat is sold throughout North America with this seat as an option.
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| It's easier to see the attention to detail on this Grammar infant seat without the child in place. (Photo: Grammer Automotive AG) |
The integrated seat folds into and out of the rear seats, allowing for easy conversion between carrying adults and children. The integrated child seat allows children to set it up, but through the use of a compression plate in the seat, it will not accidentally collapse while in use. The seat has an anti-submarining feature too, preventing children from slipping under the lap belt during an accident, plus special side cushions that fit over the head rest to help protect children's heads.
Grammer's integrated child booster seat was also featured in the Chevrolet SS concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show. The company has manufacturing facilities in Piedmont, S.C. and Mexico, and an office in Ann Arbor.