Westfield firm survived Consumer Reports test

IMMI, a Westfield company that makes buckles, harnesses and other components for child car seats, said none of the seats using its parts failed a recent test by Consumer Reports.

The not-for-profit watchdog group said this week that it could recommend only two of 12 infant seats it tested. Infant seats face to the rear and are designed for children up to 20 pounds.

IMMI President Steve Wallen is waiting to see if Consumer Reports tests toddler seats, which are rated for children 20 to 60 pounds.

In September 2005, IMMI introduced a $449 model built from aircraft aluminum and other materials designed to absorb a large impact.

Wallen said its SafeGuard seat has been tested at speeds up to 40 mph—faster than the 35 mph front crash and 38 mph side impact used in the Consumer Reports tests.

“Our seat would fare very well,” he said.