Child-in-car detection: ADAC test shows limits

Child Presence Detection systems are intended to prevent children or animals from being overlooked in parked cars. An ADAC test shows, however, that the technology does not yet work reliably in every situation. All vehicles tested did detect the dummy of a one-year-old child. But a newborn dummy in a rear-facing infant carrier was much more difficult: none of the direct systems detected it reliably.

ADAC distinguishes between indirect and direct CPD systems. Indirect solutions evaluate factors including belt-buckle status, seat occupancy and door openings. Direct systems use radar to detect movements such as breathing. In the test, detection worked better when the infant carrier was secured with the vehicle seat belt rather than by Isofix. The study therefore shows that different occupant, seat and installation configurations remain a technical challenge.

CPD systems can provide an additional level of safety, but they do not replace the responsibility of parents and caregivers. In warm temperatures, babies, children and animals should not be left alone in a car, not even for short errands. Heat can quickly cause health damage in a closed vehicle, and in the worst case can be fatal.

Thule launches connected child seats

In parallel with the ADAC test, Thule has announced Connected Car Seats that are set to be available from 1 September. According to the manufacturer, the sensor-based system is not tied to a specific vehicle model and monitors critical installation steps, including correct belt tightening. Guidance, step-by-step instructions and warnings appear on the smartphone and on the vehicle’s infotainment display. The background is that, according to insurers, almost 50 percent of all child seats are installed incorrectly. Loose harnesses reportedly affect 30 percent of babies and 40 percent of toddlers. In Switzerland, the Connected Car Seats by Thule are offered from 309.95 francs.