Ford introduces the automotive industry’s first-ever production inflatable seat belts, which are designed to prevent injuries in car accidents. The combination of seat belt and air bag technology is more focused on neck, head and chest injuries, specifically in older passengers and children.
According to Ford Motor Co., the new technology will introduce in the rear seats of the next-generation Ford Explorer which begins production by next year, but still they have plans to eventually offer them on car industries all over the world. Unlike any traditional car air bags which rely on a heating-generating chemical reaction. The belts inflate slower and to a lower pressure.
Ford Safety Technical Leader also said that this is very logical system and simple but it requires extensive trial and error to prove out the inflatable seat belts and ensure reliable performance in crash situation.
We all know that this isn’t the first time we’ve heard about the inflatable seat belts technology. In fact Ford may not be the first time to market with the concept. The Lexus LFA also featured a SRS seatbelt as well. So we don’t have any idea if the next-generation Ford Explorer will beat the LFA. But Ford assures that they will do whatever it takes to make the best hi-technology.
So the big question is, how much does system cost? Ford would not say how much extra the inflatable seatbelts will cost, but they intend to make the price very reasonable, very affordable for people particularly for families.