AUBURN, Calif. — Electronic control systems manufacturer InterMotive Vehicle Controls has developed Safe-T-Seat, a Seat Information Tracking (SIT) system exclusively for Freedman Seating Co.

The SIT system displays and tracks the occupancy and belt status of passenger seats and provides audible and visual warnings for the driver, according to a news release from the manufacturer.

“With this exclusive product, Freedman can present a long-desired solution to the seat belt challenge,” said Greg Schafer, president of InterMotive. “Drivers need a way to ensure passengers are really wearing their seat belts.”

The system is designed to trigger an alert if an occupant sits but does not buckle their seat belt or buckles it before sitting. The system can also record and store data in case of an accident.

Each seat sensing module communicates wirelessly for up to three seating positions. It allows for an expandable system with up to 90 seats for larger vehicles, according to the manufacturer. An alternate battery power option enables the system to be retrofitted on older vehicles.

Plug-and-play connections help simplify installation, according to InterMotive, and a downloadable app lets the user configure the seating layout on the tablet.

The manufacturer created the system on the heels of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s proposed rulemaking proceedings to require belt use warning systems in buses, according to the manufacturer.

“Safety is our number-one priority," said Craig Freedman, the CEO of Freedman Seating Co. “We’re excited to be able to offer our complete occupant protection system with our partner, InterMotive.”

Safe-T-Seat will be available for purchase through Freedman Seating Co. in the first quarter of 2020. For more details, contact the seating supplier at info@freedmanseating.com or (800) 443-4540.