It may sound like a minor deal, but it is one of the easier ways through which automakers can lower emissions and improve cars’ efficiency. Autonews Europe recently sat down with the vice president of automotive parts suppliers Johnson Controls Inc., Andreas Eppinger, discussing the matter of weight reduction of all front seats by 5 kg or 11 lbs over the next five years.
He was asked relevant questions and gave firm and simple answers, all of which point to an apparent feasibility to the idea. It’s explained that there are many areas where weight could be cut, but that the primary target would be the metallic frame.
A realistic estimate is cast out too, with Eppinger stating that “It depends on how the seat is equipped but for the standard components I see a weight reduction of 30 percent to 50 percent over the next few years. There are significant weight reductions coming. I would say the 5kg reduction is realistic.”
One of the interviewer’s suggestions is the use of carbon fiber seats, but these are not seen as worthy of consideration due to high costs.
Hopefully, none of this will make seats and less comfortable than they are today. Check out how car seats are made in the video poster after the jump.
By Andrei Nedelea
VIDEO