Continental Coach Design
Page 32
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WITHOUT taking into consideration any question as to the dimensions of passenger vehicles built on the Continent, many present interesting features, some of which, however, would not -meet our constructional requirements. This applies particularly to the seating arrangements in many passenger vehicles. In the majority there is an intrusion of one or several seats into the entrance .or exit gangways.
To overcome this problem there are many types of seat, or pairs of seats, arranged to hinge and sometimes fold. This may involve even partially lifting and pushing back a pair and, necessarily, some form of locking device must be released, and must be capable of being operated from both inside and outside the vehicle. Admittedly, this may not be difficult, but might well prove awkward in an emergency, and does not conform with our ideas of safety.
It is quite common also to slide seats into the centre gangway when travelling, to provide more room and comfort to passengers. To give greater accommodation even flap seats are often provided, which fill the gangway when in position.
On the other hand, great attention is usually given to comfort, almost all seats having adjustable backs and, in certain cases, the seats themselves also slide forward to afford a reclining position.
The comfort of the driver obviously receives great attention, and many and varied are the designs of seat for him. Some must be hinged over to facilitate access, and most have separate controls for turning, adjusting to height, and sliding to adjust for pedal reach. In several types the seat is mounted on a tubular base carried in a stout socket and provided with one or more nipples for lubrication.
In general, however, Continental bodywork is most attractive and soundly constructed.