Volvo Concept Adds Flexibility to Child Safety Seats

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Ltd.'s Volvo Cars unit says its swiveling child car seat improves ease of use, comfort and functionality over current safety seats.

The concept system is mounted on a raised, sliding platform on the front passenger side of the vehicle. Volvo says such alternative seating layouts could be used in future autonomous vehicles.

The design allows a parent to swivel the seat toward the door to make it easier to place a child into it. Once the child is properly harnessed and secured, the seat can be rotated and locked in a standard rearward facing position. The raised height makes it easier for seated children to look at the driver and rear seat occupants, Volvo says.

There also is a special reclining function that makes it easier for small children to lean back and sleep, according to the carmaker. A heated cup holder can be used to warm up a baby bottle.

The concept also has storage compartments to the side and underneath the seat for diapers, blankets, toys and extra clothes.

Volvo, which developed the industry's first rear-facing prototype child seat 50 years ago, recommends small children travel in a rearward facing position as long as possible (at least to the age of 3 or 4) to maximize safety. The position provides greater protection for children, whose head size and weak neck muscles make them more prone to whiplash and other serious injuries if they are facing forward during an accident.