Volvo is giving drivers helping hand

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

Safety pioneer Volvo, responsible for the three-point lap-sash seatbelt more than 40 years ago, has come up with a four-point restraint integrated into the seat frame.

It has also built a see-through windscreen pillar and an inward-curving door pillar to help improve driver vision.

The bonded plexiglass and metal windscreen pillar is said to be as strong as steel and is meant to help eliminate the blind spot inherent in cars.

The door pillar follows the shape of the seat frame to open up the side and rear views for driver and front passenger.

Volvo says drivers receive more than 90 per cent of the most critical information from outside the vehicle. It reasons that if it can improve the quality of this visual information, it can give drivers a better chance of avoiding a collision.

The new seatbelt is not dissimilar in appearance to the shoulder harness in racing cars. It is a conventional three-point belt with an extended diagonal chest belt from the shoulder to the hip. A centre buckle ties it all together.

The SCC also showcases technology designed to ease the strain of driving and to help put drivers in the best position to improve visibility.

A sensor determines the driver's eye level. It then adjusts the seat, pedals, steering wheel and centre console, including the gear lever, to suit.

Volvo is also working on a smart-card security system, where the car can only be opened when the drivers fingerprints are identified.

Meantime, BMW is using on-board radar to avoid blind-spot problems and enhance safety. The radar detects a potential collision.

Mercedes-Benz is also working to make cars stronger. It has developed new adhesives for passenger car bodyshells.

The superglues are stronger than conventional welds and will make vehicles more rigid.