Volvo Introduces Artificial Intelligence-Powered Seatbelt Technology
Volvo Cars has announced the debut of an innovative AI-powered seat belt system in its upcoming EX60 mid-size electric SUV, set to hit the roads in 2026. This groundbreaking safety feature is expected to surpass the performance of Volvo's original seat belt design, which has saved over a million lives since its introduction in 1959.
The new system, a testament to Volvo's commitment to automotive safety, is equipped with multi-adaptive technology that customises protection based on factors such as height, weight, body shape, and seating position. This personalised approach ensures that each occupant receives optimal safety in various traffic scenarios.
The AI-powered seat belt system also boasts adaptive load limiting, a feature that significantly increases the number of load-limiting profile variations. This adaptability allows the system to manage the force applied to occupants in the event of an accident, providing a higher belt load setting for larger occupants in serious crashes to reduce the risk of head injury, while offering a lower belt load setting for smaller occupants in milder crashes to minimise the risk of broken ribs.
Real-time data from both internal and external sensors is utilised by the system to adjust settings accordingly, offering enhanced safety in diverse traffic conditions. Over-the-air software updates will also be available, allowing the system to improve and evolve over time with new features and optimisations.
This world-first technology represents a significant leap forward in automotive safety, marking a substantial upgrade to the traditional three-point safety belt. After its debut in the EX60, the technology is expected to be rolled out across Volvo's model range.
Åsa Haglund, head of the Volvo Cars Safety Center, has hailed the multi-adaptive safety belt as a milestone for automotive safety. The Volvo Cars Safety Center crash lab, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, has played a crucial role in testing and developing this groundbreaking safety feature.
The AI-powered seat belt system is not intended for distribution to other automakers, according to Volvo, and will work in conjunction with existing airbags, occupant detection, and driver assistance systems to provide a comprehensive safety solution for all occupants. This new innovation underscores Volvo's ongoing dedication to saving lives and reducing injuries on the roads.
- The AI-powered seat belt system in Volvo's EX60 mid-size electric SUV, equipped with multi-adaptive technology and adaptive load limiting, is a testament to Volvo's ongoing dedication to automotive safety and a significant leap forward in the use of artificial-intelligence in this field.
- This new AI-powered seat belt system, which customizes protection based on various factors and offers adaptability in managing force applied to occupants in accidents, is not intended for distribution to other automakers but is expected to be rolled out across Volvo's model range, reinforcing the company's commitment to saving lives and reducing injuries through technology.
