The fabulous history of Peugeot hyper-technological seats

KUALA LUMPUR: In the highly competitive automotive market, potential customers carefully compare all the available choices before making the purchase. Among the comparison parameters, the vehicle interior is considered to be an important one. In this context, the French automaker, Peugeot, holds a vibrant history of making the car's cabin amazingly hi-tech and comfy.

With the widespread use of the Peugeot i-Cockpit on almost its entire range, the automaker has revolutionized the vehicles' interior with particular attention to the seats, which are becoming increasingly complex and technological. Let's have a look at the important technological milestones of Peugeot's seats.

Back in 1955, the first seat adjustments appeared on mass-produced cars that included backrest incline, seat height, etc. At that time, Peugeot also brought the sleeper seats for the 403, the flagship model of that time. After two years, the rear-seat access feature was launched for commercial vehicles.

Later on, the automaker brought the division of the 2/3 1/3 bench seats with Peugeot 306 and the third row of retractable seats with Peugeot 5008.

In 2007, Peugeot reserved the new EMP2 platform's rights for developing crosswise reinforcement for the front seats, which can be found on the first iteration of the Peugeot 308 launched in 2014. The modular frame made the seats lighter while improving comfort and safety. 

The automaker beliefs that the notion of seat comfort differs according to the geographical areas. In Europe, customers demand comfort at the front with precision in posture, and lateral support, while foldability is required for the rear seats. In China, the demand is for comfort in the first row and a soft approach for the rear seats. In South America, the customers need optimum vibration absorption and comfort in the first and rear seats.

In this scenario, the Peugeot is focussed on bringing more dynamic seats as per the customers' requirements. 

All along with designing, the Peugeot designers are also concerned about the wellbeing of its passengers. The recent innovations in this spectrum include the integration of airbags in the foam to adapt car seats to the occupants' morphology and a back massage system that promotes relaxation while activating the back muscles.

For the seats of tomorrow, the Peugeot will be more influenced by clothing fashion and more focussed on occupants' wellbeing.

Also read: Buy a new Peugeot from the comfort of your home