Ford To Pioneer Industry-First Inflatable Rear Seat Belts

Ford Motor Company has announced that it will introduce the motor industry’s first inflatable seat belts in 2010, designed to enhance overall vehicle safety and provide better protection for back-seat passengers.

Ford’s inflatable rear seat belts – which will make their debut on the US best-selling Ford Explorer – spread the force of a crash over an area five times bigger than conventional seat belts. This helps to reduce head, neck and chest injuries by easing pressure and reducing movement in the event of an impact.

Combining the attributes of traditional seat belts and air bags, the new inflatable belts are designed to deploy over the wearer’s torso and shoulder within 40 milliseconds of a crash. They are safe and compatible with infant and children safety car and booster seats.

In research carried out by Ford, 90% of respondents also said the inflatable seat belts were more comfortable than traditional belts – a factor that could help to increase rear seat belt usage. The company plans to extend inflatable seat belt technology to its vehicles around the world.

“Ford’s rear inflatable seat belt technology will enhance safety for rear seat passengers of all ages, especially for young children who are more vulnerable in crashes,” said Sue Cischke, Ford group vice president of Sustainability, Environmental and Safety Engineering. “This is another unique family technology that builds on our safety leadership, including the most top safety ratings of any automaker.”

“We hope that the new technology will not only enhance improve overall car safety but will also encourage more passengers – especially those travelling in the back seat – to buckle up,” she added.