Even if they succeed, it’ll never make it to the states because of the liability concerns. I think it was VW who announced a new lane change system for the Passat in Europe but they said it will not bee seen in the U.S. for this reason.

Back on topic, I don’t see how they can do truly succeed at this. One of the biggest injury sources in vehicle crashes is when you stop but your internal organs don’t and smash and tear around causing what is usually fatal damage. I’m baffled how they’ll mitigate that one, especially brain injuries sustained this way. Doesn’t mean they shouldn’t try though. Let’s see what they come up with.

Interesting about VW.  Volvo has its BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) as an optional feature on its 2008 models.  Also offered is a Collision Avoidance Package including Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with auto-brake, Distance Alert, Driver Alert, and Lane Departure Warning.

*phew*

So do you think people will start blaming accidents on the fact that their car didn’t prevent them enough?

I just saw your comment about City Safety system. In February/March next year we launch XC60 and City Safety will be standard fitted to all those vehicles.  At speeds up to 9 mph, the vehicle will completely stop, between 10-18 mph there is a great reduction in speed to lessen impact. Of course depending on how wet/icy the road is, this well effect stopping distances.

The issue of internal organ damage,  if we can stop the vehicle from impact another, we can reduce or eliminate this that kind of injury. Slow speed reduction is much better than sudden impact. But what you might consider is that most cars have energy absorbing properties, so at normal speeds, say 50 mph (your speed) and you impact someone going 20, your speed is about 30. With energy absorption of both vehicles, you will not have the same issues as if impacting a brick wall at 50.  In fact with front and rear absorption systems of both vehicles, the impacting force is much slower (has a longer pulse than brick wall scenario).  Today as it was 10-15 years ago the issue was side impact protection. There is no room for energy absorption.  When we introduced the 850 series in ‘92 we reduced injuries, like internal organ damage, by about 20% by using energy force distribution mechanics in the side body structure. In ‘95 we introduced world’s first side impact air bag. This added another 20% reduction in expected injuries.  Still, side impacts are dangerous.

I hope you get a chance to test City Safety at one of our retailers next year. We would love to hear back from you after you give it a try. 

Kind regards,
dan johnston
volvo