PVC 'automotive PPE' could be attractive to drivers

by Sven Gustafson

Just about the entire world is wrestling, while under quarantine, with questions about how to re-start their lives and livelihoods while safeguarding themselves from being infected with the novel coronavirus. In New Zealand, one company has come up with a solution that could be useful for those who make their living driving with others in tow.

Auckland-based RVE, an automotive leather upholsterer and exterior customizer, has created what it calls “automotive PPE” designed for business, fleet and emergency service vehicles.

One product is a simple vinyl slip-on seat cover, while the most novel is a “driver bubble” — a transparent, easy-to-clean PVC enclosure to surround the driver without having to construct a separate compartment. Jim Stanners, the company’s business development director, told Kiwi site Driven the project started out of concern about RVE’s own employees but quickly spread to a realization that it was an untapped market.

“Driver and passenger are protected, but they don’t have to wear masks and they can still talk and see each other through the screen,” Stanners said.

RVE’s driver bubble attaches to the seat head-restraint so as to not interfere with airbag functions. It also features a quick release fastener to allow the driver to exit the car quickly in an emergency. The company created prototype versions using a Ford Ranger and Hyundai iLoad van, but it says it has several versions for SUVs and vans and can design custom-size versions.