A massaging seat is a luxury comfort feature that uses built-in inflatable bladders under the seat covers to simulate common massage techniques, such as kneading, pressing, rolling, and more. Automakers often install bladders in the backrest and the seat cushion to provide a more effective massage.
Usually, activating the system requires only the touch of a button, but as vehicles have gotten more sophisticated, so have the massaging capabilities of the seats. You can typically find the buttons to begin the massage on the seat base or the door panel. Many manufacturers have shifted the controls to the vehicle’s infotainment touchscreen.
The user often controls the speed, intensity, and type of massage. They can also select what area of their back they want massaged and choose specific massage styles, such as Shiatsu or Swedish. Some manufacturers design massages to increase alertness and improve focus. Others reduce driver and muscle fatigue on long trips.
Massaging seats began showing up in luxury vehicles in the late 1990s, with Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, and Cadillac among the first brands to offer them. More and more mainstream vehicles can be equipped with the seats, while some brands offer them in the rear seats.
Sixteen brands make massaging seats available in 50 vehicles, including the Ford F-150, Hyundai Palisade, and Volkswagen ID.4.
See also: What Is Cruise Control? What Is Self-Driving?
