Over the past century, car seats have transformed from mere viewing platforms for children to essential safety devices. In the early 1930s, Bunny Bear Company introduced a booster seat, primarily so parents could keep an eye on their kids. By the 1940s, canvas seats on metal frames were developed to help kids see out the front window.
In 1962, safety took center stage when Jean Ames created the first rear-facing car seat with a safety harness, while in America, Martin Bray designed his own metal-framed version. By 1968, automotive companies entered the market, with Ford’s Tot-Guard and GM’s Love Seat focusing on crash protection.
The 1970s saw the rise of the Bobby Mac convertible seat, which could switch between rear- and forward-facing. The first federal safety standards emerged in 1971, mandating a three-point harness. The 1980s introduced crash testing, leading to stronger and more secure car seats.
By 1997, ISofix, a precursor to the current LATCH system, was developed to anchor car seats safely. The LATCH system became law in 2002, alongside booster seat regulations in states like Washington and California. In the 2000s, innovations like infant car seats and 3-in-1 systems became commonplace in the U.S. Today, all car seats must adhere to safety standards, with some models offering luxury features, such as Kim Kardashian’s Orbit Baby G2 priced at $1200.
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Summary
The history of car seats spans a century, evolving from basic seating to advanced safety systems. Today, safety standards are paramount, while innovations continue to improve child safety in vehicles.