Why did the BRAT have seats in the bed?
The BRAT, a compact pickup truck produced by Subaru in the 1970s and 80s, had a distinctive feature that set it apart from other vehicles of its time – seats in the bed of the truck. This unconventional design choice was not just a quirky styling decision, but rather a strategic response to a specific market need.
The Origins of the BRAT's Unique Seating
The BRAT, short for "Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter," was Subaru's attempt to capitalize on the growing popularity of compact pickup trucks in the United States. However, the BRAT faced a unique challenge – it was classified as a passenger vehicle rather than a commercial truck, which meant it was subject to stricter safety regulations and import tariffs.
To circumvent these regulations, Subaru's engineers came up with a clever solution: they added a pair of rear-facing seats in the bed of the BRAT. This allowed the vehicle to be classified as a passenger car, while still providing the utility of a pickup truck. The seats in the bed were a strategic move to avoid the higher tariffs and safety requirements that would have applied to a traditional pickup truck.
The Practical Benefits of the BRAT's Seating Design
Beyond the regulatory loophole, the BRAT's unique seating arrangement also offered some practical benefits to owners. The rear-facing seats in the bed provided additional passenger capacity, allowing the BRAT to transport up to four people. This made it a versatile choice for both work and leisure activities.
Additionally, the BRAT's bed-mounted seats were equipped with seatbelts, providing a safer alternative to the traditional open-air seating found in the back of many pickup trucks at the time. This innovative design helped the BRAT stand out in a crowded market and appealed to buyers who valued both utility and safety.
The Legacy of the BRAT's Unique Design
While the BRAT's bed-mounted seats were a clever solution to regulatory challenges, the design was not without its critics. Some argued that the rear-facing seats were uncomfortable and potentially unsafe, particularly in the event of a rear-end collision.
Despite these criticisms, the BRAT's unique seating arrangement has become an iconic part of the vehicle's legacy. The BRAT's distinctive design has been celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors, and the bed-mounted seats have become a defining feature of this quirky and innovative compact pickup.
In the end, the BRAT's unconventional seating design was a testament to Subaru's engineering ingenuity and their willingness to think outside the box to meet the needs of their customers. The BRAT's unique features may have been born out of regulatory constraints, but they ultimately contributed to the vehicle's enduring appeal and legacy.
