Next-Generation Ford Explorer to Employ Rear Inflatable Seat Belts

[daddy]

• Ford introduces the auto industry’s first-ever production inflatable seat belts, which are designed to provide additional protection for rear-seat occupants, often children and older passengers who can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries

• Ford’s inflatable rear seat belts will debut on the next-generation Ford Explorer sport utility vehicle, which goes into production next year; Ford eventually plans to offer inflatable seat belt technology in vehicles globally

• Ford’s inflatable rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts; this helps reduce pressure on the chest and helps control head and neck motion for rear seat passengers

• More than 90 percent of Ford research participants indicated that Ford’s inflatable seat belts are similar to or more comfortable than traditional belts, which could help increase the lower rate of rear belt usage

Mini-site: http://media.ford.com/mini_sites/10031/InflatableBelt/

Press Release: http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=31360

 

[Dankle 666]

That is a pretty good idea.

 

[Bigredmariner]

Wow, what's next? Inflatable cocoon for the occupants.

 

[Vmax2007]

Wow, what's next? Inflatable cocoon for the occupants.

I am thinking they should just stuff all of the interior panels full of compressed packing peanuts and when in an accident, they get released and fill the cabin.

 

[DarrenWS6]

Pretty smart idea. Wonder if that will make them heavier and a little more uncomfortable. Love how Ford's about the safety

 

[Bigredmariner]

Wow, what's next? Inflatable cocoon for the occupants.

I am thinking they should just stuff all of the interior panels full of compressed packing peanuts and when in an accident, they get released and fill the cabin.

Good idea, maybe we should apply for a patent.

 

[Dankle 666]

Pretty smart idea. Wonder if that will make them heavier and a little more uncomfortable. Love how Ford's about the safety

From above article:

More than 90 percent of Ford research participants indicated that Ford’s inflatable seat belts are similar to or more comfortable than traditional belts, which could help increase the lower rate of rear belt usage

 

[Z71_Silvy]

Sure beats being a good driver.

 

[Nick The Great]

Those are . . . "tight"

 

[Zembonez]

Makes me even more glad to own a Jeep. Man I hate the over complication of vehicles these days... We'd be a LOT safer if we just taught the people driving HOW TO F**KING DRIVE.