Abstract: An impact sensing apparatus for a motor vehicle includes a control module having an accelerometer and a contact switch mounted in a bumper of the motor vehicle. The contact switch is in an open position and is in communication with the control module. The control module deploys an airbag when the accelerometer detects a change in velocity of the motor vehicle exceeding a threshold lowered when the contact switch is urged by the bumper to a closed position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a retractable seat assembly for a motor vehicle which is fully retractable below the level of the vehicle's floor. Typically, the invention involves a bench-type seat which is located behind the driver and passenger seats of a minivan or other vehicle. In an operative position, the seat has generally upright seatback which cooperates with a lower horizontal member to provide the seating portion. In the non-operative or stored position, the entire seat assembly is positioned below the level of the vehicle's floor. In one application, the forward edge and rearward edge of the seat are interconnected to the body of the vehicle for pivotal movement about translatable and fixed axes, respectively.