The '04 Ford Freestar design team used research developed with help of pregnancy simulator suits.

Ford engineers are learning first hand what it's like to be pregnant. By using a specially designed 30-pound suit to experience the realistic effects of pregnancy, Ford engineers are able to better understand the needs of customers as it relates to everyday vehicle use.

The suit has two seven-pound belly weight inserts, a six-pound pouch
that applies pressure to the bladder, and compartments for water and ball bearings that mimic mild fetal kicking. The suit allows engineers to experience several issues women face while being pregnant such as awkwardness in body movements, postural changes, shifts in center of gravity, limitations in reach and more.

Research from the pregnancy suit was used by ergonomic engineers early in the design process of the all-new 2004 Mercury Monterey and Ford Freestar minivans.

The Krispy Kreme and pickle cravings are optional, however.

MORE INFORMATION: www.ford.com