Child Car Safety: Understanding the End of R44 and the Transition to R129 (i-Size)



We know that children’s safety is every parent’s top priority when travelling by car. Staying informed about the latest updates regarding child car safety is essential — especially if you have recently bought or are planning to buy a child car seat.



In this article, we’ll explain how European safety standards affect the choice of the best Child Restraint System (CRS), why the R44 regulation is coming to an end, and what this change means for families.



European Standards for Choosing a Child Restraint System (CRS)



Child Restraint Systems — also known as car seats — are regulated in Europe by two standards:

R44, valid until 1 September 2024, and R129 (i-Size), which will fully replace it thereafter.



R44 Car Seats



Classified into five groups, based only on the child’s weight:

Group 0 (up to 10 kg), 0+ (up to 13 kg), I (9–18 kg), II (15–25 kg) and III (22–36 kg).



Tested for frontal and rear collisions.



Allow the child to travel forward-facing from around 9 months of age.



R129 Car Seats (i-Size)



Introduced in 2013 to improve child safety.



Classification based on weight, height (40–150 cm) and age.



Include side-impact tests, crucial for protecting the neck and head, making them safer than R44 seats.



Require rear-facing travel for at least the first 15 months, offering better protection.



The End of the R44 Regulation



From 1 September 2024, the sale of R44-approved car seats will no longer be permitted.

Only R129-approved models will be available for purchase.



However, if you already own an R44 seat, you may continue to use it as long as it remains appropriate for your child’s size and is correctly installed and used.



This change follows the evolution of the automotive industry, which continues to develop new technologies to enhance passenger safety — particularly for children.

The R129 regulation, being newer and more stringent, ensures higher safety standards than R44.



The Impact of This Change



After 1 September 2024, when purchasing a new car seat, parents must choose one approved under R129.

Beyond improving child safety, this transition aims to simplify families’ daily routines, making the choice and installation of a car seat easier and more intuitive.



In Summary



Understanding the regulations and innovations in child car safety is key when choosing a car seat.

This way, everyone benefits: parents gain peace of mind, and children travel safer than ever.



References



Child car seats approved under R44/04 – End of sales | APSI – Associação para a Promoção da Segurança Infantil.



Information on car seat safety standards: R129 and R44? | Maxi-Cosi™ – Car Seats, Pushchairs & More.