Tier 1 supplier Magna says that its FreeForm seating technology will be launching on four new vehicles, one later this year and three in 2022. The company says that its distinctive seat trim technology provides a clean, sculpted and seamless styling surface and allows a number of design possibilities.
“Automotive seat design has become an even more important consideration in light of the rapidly evolving mobility landscape and the resulting shift toward interiors and in-car experience,” said John Wyskiel, president of Magna Seating Systems. FreeForm first hit the market in 2020 on the Cadillac XT5 and will now launch with other auto makers on a large SUV, a midsize crossover, a sedan and an all-electric SUV.
“We are seeing an increasing demand from both traditional customers and new entrants alike seeking to offer superior comfort and design features and create a more ‘homelike’ cabin, as well as utilize more eco-friendly materials. FreeForm technology can deliver on all fronts,” added Wyskiel.
According to Magna, FreeForm can achieve design details as sharp as a 1mm radius compared to 20-25mm for traditional cut and sew. This allows automotive stylists greater design possibilities to achieve various shapes and forms, and crisper lines.
It also offers improved back comfort thanks to more than 100mm of concavity – nearly impossible with traditional cut and sew. Coupled with bolsters, this offers enhanced support for the lower back as it reduces fatiguing micro-motions of the spine. Furthermore, FreeForm is created with a foam laminate which results in a moldable surface that is four times more breathable than comparable molded trim products – further enhancing seat comfort.
The back panel seats also contain up to 50% proprietary polyols derived from recycled polyethylene terephthalate and the seating surface contains up to 20% renewable materials from a bio-feedstock – resulting in an overall more sustainable product.
