Volvo has long been credited with being the number one automaker when it comes to vehicle safety, and with good reason. As the inventor of “crumple zones” and “roll cages” to protect passengers, Volvo set the standard for building cars around the world for generations to come. Indeed, the automotive industry owes much to Volvo’s many safety contributions. Not to be lost in all of this is the work that Mercedes-Benz has been doing to improve passenger safety as well. Taking the Volvo concept a step further, Mercedes now incorporates various technological advancements with its vehicles to deliver the safest driving experience available. Let’s take a look at the Mercedes PRE-SAFE system and how it can protect you and your passengers.
I must admit that when I first heard about Mercedes’ new security system I thought it was something that was still years away from being available. How wrong I was! The PRE-SAFE system, as it is called, is a great way to improve passenger safety and should be adopted by other car manufacturers. Yes, I’m sure it’s not a cheap system, but as it is with so many technological advances, the price is bound to come down and the system or something similar will be widely available across the board.
Introduced with select Mercedes models in 2003, the PRE-SAFE system automatically activates moments before a collision. All it takes is a panic stop or skid and the system kicks into gear; Here’s what occupants can expect moments before a crash occurs:
comfortable in place. Passenger seat belts automatically tighten to prepare occupants for a crash.
Snug in your place, part two. Along with the seat belts, the air cushions on the sides of the seats inflate to keep people in position.
Seat movements. Head restraints and seats automatically move to predetermined positions that provide optimal occupant protection.
close it. The windows close automatically to provide the best support for the side curtain airbags, and cars equipped with a sunroof will find that it has closed in the event of a rollover.
Since its introduction, PRE-SAFE has been extended to other Mercedes models and the original technology is constantly being modified and improved.
New technology being developed by Mercedes includes the development of a radar sensor to track vehicles that run a red light and crash into your car. Once this technology is ready, it will take the PRE-SAFE system one step further and offer occupants one more way to avoid serious injury.
So is Volvo behind in developing crash-prep technology? Unlucky. Volvo launched its Whiplash Protection Seating System in 2000 that prepares passengers for a rear impact by adjusting seat position to minimize the impact. In addition, the company is working on a radar system that can detect when a driver leaves his lane. This feature will also use an electronic eye to check for blind spots not seen through the side mirrors.
Ultimately, a defensive driver is the best driver, but there are times when situations are completely out of his control. The Mercedes PRE-SAFE system is sure to go a long way and is likely to reduce serious injuries and even prevent some fatalities. Technology at its finest!
