Several car seats available today have successfully passed the rigorous Swedish Plus Test, a voluntary safety standard renowned for its focus on protecting a child's neck during a frontal collision.
Understanding the Swedish Plus Test
The Swedish Plus Test is considered one of the most demanding car seat safety tests globally. Unlike standard European ECE R44 or R129 approvals, the Plus Test specifically measures the forces on a child's neck, aiming to ensure these forces remain within life-sustaining limits. This test is exclusive to rear-facing car seats, as rear-facing is proven to be significantly safer for young children by distributing crash forces across a larger area of the child's back, head, and neck.
Key aspects that make the Plus Test unique include:
- High-Speed Impact: Simulates a severe frontal collision with greater intensity than standard tests.
- Short Braking Distance: Exacerbates impact forces to truly challenge the seat's design.
- Strict Neck Force Limits: The critical criterion ensures that crash test dummy neck force limits are not exceeded, minimizing the risk of serious neck injury.
- Rear-Facing Only: The test is exclusively performed on rear-facing car seats, reinforcing the safety benefits of this orientation for young passengers.
Swedish Plus Tested Car Seats
Many leading car seat manufacturers prioritize passing the Swedish Plus Test, offering parents peace of mind through enhanced safety. Here are some notable car seats that have achieved this high safety standard:
| Car Seat Model | Installation Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Axkid Minikid 4 | Belt-fitted | Automatic headrest adjustment, compact footprint |
| Axkid Movekid | Belt-fitted | Affordable, robust, designed for simple installation |
| Joie Baby iProdigi Nordic i-Size | ISOFIX & Belt | Ultra-long rear-facing capabilities (up to 125 cm) |
| Joie Baby i-Spin Safe i-Size | ISOFIX | 360° rotation for easy access, superior side impact protection |
| Axkid One+ 3 i-Size | ISOFIX | Lightest 125cm i-Size seat, dynamic legroom system |
| Axkid One 3 i-Size | ISOFIX | Quick and easy installation, spacious design |
| Britax Römer Max-Safe Pro R129 | Belt-fitted with ISOFIX connectors | High weight limit, extended legroom, advanced SICT protection |
Why Choose a Plus Tested Car Seat?
Opting for a car seat that has passed the Swedish Plus Test provides several distinct advantages for child safety:
- Superior Neck Protection: The most significant benefit is the drastically reduced risk of severe neck injuries in a frontal collision, which is paramount for children whose neck muscles and vertebrae are still developing.
- Proven Safety Beyond Standards: The Plus Test is a voluntary and exceptionally stringent test, meaning manufacturers go above and beyond standard regulatory requirements to achieve this certification.
- Extended Rear-Facing: Almost all Plus Tested seats are designed for extended rear-facing use, supporting children in this safest orientation for longer periods, often up to 6 years or 125 cm. This aligns with expert recommendations for optimal safety.
Important Considerations When Choosing a Plus Tested Seat
While the Plus Test is an excellent indicator of safety, it's crucial to consider additional factors to ensure the best fit and performance:
- Vehicle Compatibility: Always check if the car seat fits properly and can be securely installed in your vehicle before making a purchase. Some seats may be larger or require specific vehicle features.
- Ease of Installation: A car seat, regardless of its safety ratings, is only safe if installed correctly. Look for features that simplify installation, such as clear guides, intuitive belt paths, or ISOFIX systems.
- Child's Comfort and Size: Ensure the seat is appropriate for your child's current height and weight, offering adequate support and comfort, especially for longer journeys. Remember that the seat must fit the child and the car simultaneously.
- Longevity and Value: Many Plus Tested seats are designed for extended rear-facing use, providing long-term value as your child grows.
By prioritizing a Swedish Plus Tested car seat, parents can make a highly informed decision towards maximizing their child's safety on every journey.
