Grammer AG Offers Configurable Armrests

TROY, Mich., May 24, 2004 -- Grammer AG has developed adjustable, configurable automotive armrests for both front- and rear-seat positions. The innovative armrests can be adjusted to move horizontally, vertically or tilt for proper support.

A comfortable arm position contributes significantly to driver comfort, especially for relieving fatigue on long trips. Smaller drivers naturally sit closer to the steering wheel, with their arms more strongly angled and their elbows in a lower position. As a result, armrests often are too high for smaller drivers to use comfortably. For larger people, who sit further back from the wheel, a stationary armrest only might support the driver's elbow.

Through intensive testing, Grammer has determined that the optimum range of adjustment for an armrest for most drivers should be 11 inches in a horizontal direction and about six inches vertically.

Designed for a seat-integrated center console or freestanding armrests, Grammer's new, adjustable armrests can slide forward or backward and tilt to a comfortable angle. Grammer also has equipped some models with overload protection. Under a heavy load, the armrest retreats into the console. When the load is lightened, the armrest automatically returns to its original position.

Horizontal adjustment in most models is done by hand. Height can be adjusted mechanically, electrically or hydraulically.

Grammer seat-attached armrests move with the seat and come with tilt adjustment. In addition, they can be folded back completely and models can offer a small, integrated storage compartment. Adjustable armrest-console compartments also can be designed to include storage for cell phones or a CD changer.

For the BMW 5 Series, Grammer has developed an armrest covered with a polyurethane skin for an enhanced surface feel that is highly durable yet soft to the touch, providing the pleasant feel required for a luxury vehicle.

Grammer also has designed functional rear armrests for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 5 and 7 Series, Audi A8 and Volkswagen Phaeton.

Grammer AG is a world leader in the development and manufacture of innovative components and systems for automobile interiors. Wherever people use vehicles, Grammer, based in Amberg, Germany, sets the standards for security, comfort and ergonomics. Automotive is the company's largest division and supplies headrests, armrests, center consoles and integrated child booster seats to vehicle manufacturers and their tier 1 systems suppliers. The company's second division, Seating Systems, provides driver seats for heavy trucks and off-road vehicles (tractors, construction machinery, fork-lifts) as well as passenger seats for trains and buses. Grammer Seating Systems is active both as a first-time supplier and as a retrofitter.

As a global player, the Grammer Group operates with a strong customer focus that includes location of development and production facilities close to clients and relies on an international network of partners. In fiscal 2003, Grammer Group sales were $849.4 million; North American sales totaled $145 million. With over 7,000 employees, Grammer and its 20 consolidated companies operate in 13 different countries worldwide.

Additional information is available by e-mail at AutomotiveInfo.Troy@grammer.com .