One of the biggest changes to automotive design that follows the changing needs of Boomers involves the shift to taller vehicles like SUVs. This is painted as a move to a more macho vehicle, but many car executives admit off-the-record that it is also heavily influenced by an aging population's increased difficultly with getting in and out of a low-slung vehicle.
This need will manifest itself quite strongly in the next couple of years, as GM and other companies bring out their "crossover" vehicles, which will feature car-like ride and comfort with much of the height of an SUV.
As well as helping to make cars more friendly for mature or disabled drivers, Paragon Project teammates have also assessed GM's office buildings and facilities so that employees and customers with special needs can move around the workplace more easily.
GM Vice President and General Manager Jay Wetzel says the company is committed to asking the right questions, and that it makes sense to rely on activities like the Paragon team to get the information GM needs to meet the needs of its employees and customers.
"It only stands to reason that we want to include all our customers and employees in our efforts. The Paragon Project helps us build customer and employee enthusiasm for our products, and that is very important to us," Wetzel says.