Lexus Kinetic Seat Concept set for Paris debut

Lexus will showcase a new take on the standard car seat at the upcoming Paris motor show called the Kinetic Seat Concept. The seat features a net-like construction that resembles a spider web. The firm claims the seat is designed to simulate the way that the human spine moves, using rotational movement of the cushion and backrest to keep the head stable. This should in theory should give better seat comfort and body support for longer periods.

The flexible net fits the occupant's body more closely than a traditional seat, while the spider web patterned net, which sits at the centre of the backrest at shoulder blade height, disperses pressure across the body. The seat also has a slimmer design, which would help reduce overall vehicle weight.

Rather than using petroleum-derived materials, the seat is made from a synthetic spider silk made by a company called Qmonos. The silk itself is created using microbial fermentation, which is spun and processed to make a material said to be four times stronger than steel but more flexible than nylon.

Lexus says the Kinetic Seat Concept re-evaluates the principles of car seats, and claims that by keeping the head more stable, the occupant’s field of vision will be steadier, making driving easier and more comfortable.