South Korean automaker Hyundai has developed the world’s first multi-collision airbag system. The new safety tech will revolutionize car airbags and enhance their performance in multi-collision accidents.
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In a multi-collision accident, the primary impact is followed by a secondary one with a surrounding object– usually a tree, pole or street sign. This, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), occurs in roughly three out of 10 accidents.
Currently, airbags don’t offer secondary protection if the initial impact isn’t enough to cause them to deploy. Hyundai’s latest technology detects the occupants’ position after the initial impact, then re-calibrates the necessary collision intensity for deployment.
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According to Hyundai, this allows the airbags to activate more quickly during the secondary impact. The company says that it has analyzed multi-collision scenarios in multilateral ways to improve airbag performance and precision in secondary collisions.
Hyundai’s Chassis Technology Center head Taesoo Chi said:
“By improving airbag performance in multi-collision scenarios, we expect to significantly improve the safety of our drivers and passengers. We will continue our research on more diverse crash situations as part of our commitment to producing even safer vehicles that protect occupants and prevent injuries.”
The multi-collision airbag system will be introduced in future Hyundai and Kia vehicles.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
