A Spring Awakening for Chrysler and the Autism Society of America
Anxiety while traveling is a real struggle for some people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Traveling can place a person outside their comfort zone in many ways. Being away from home, going to places with different sensory experiences, trying new foods, and so much more can affect a person’s stress levels. All of these factors can be overwhelming for someone with Autism and anxiety.
Autism is one of the fastest-growing developmental disabilities in the United States. The CDC has recently released the new prevalence: 1 in 36 children will be diagnosed with Autism. Additionally, there are 5.8 million adults with autism in our country. The support needs across this spectrum are vastly different.
For most people, transportation is a daily need. We need to get to school, work, and other activities. Although a lot of Americans take traveling for granted, others find it a hardship. Many people with Autism experience difficulty being overstimulated and uncomfortable while riding in a vehicle. However, a new, dynamic team may have found a solution to ease this burden.
On April 5, 2023 at the New York International Auto Show, Chrysler announced its partnership with the Autism Society of America. The announcement coincides with April’s Autism Acceptance Month, as well as the Autism Society’s fifth annual Celebrate Differences campaign.
Chrysler designed and introduced A “Calm Cabin” package to create a safe and calm space in the Chrysler Pacifica. Available in late spring 2023 through Chrysler’s online merchandise store, the package includes:
- Seat back organizer with adjustable straps, five front pockets, interior clear pocket that holds a tablet computer, and a black mesh pocket
- Rechargeable, cordless Bluetooth meditative light and sound therapy machine that fits the center pocket of the seatback organizer with five LED color modes, four light therapy modes, breathing coach, and 15 sound therapy modes
- Comforting seat belt sleeve with soft-touch velvet feel
- Soft-touch travel pillow for comfort
- Comforting, seven-layer, 12-pound weighted sensory blanket
Items available as part of the Calm Cabin package will also be available for purchase separately.
The Autism Society will advise Chrysler on the development of new products. They will also provide inclusion training to staff and dealers throughout the company. This will build better experiences for customers with autism.
Sounds like a great partnership! Watch for more positive changes to come.
