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| Volvo’s Don Johnston |
Volvo’s Product Communication Manager, Dan Johnston, spoke about their safety concept car and the way they incorporate technology into vehicles without it being a distraction to drivers. Johnston said there’s a “migration towards prevention and driver awareness” in their vehicles. He said there’s “not 1 technology that will get us there” and rather, there’s a need for collective technology such as Volvo’s technology package, pedestrian detection, blind spot option, and stability control which are designed to work together.
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| Volvo S80, just one of many of the vehicles Volvo offers with a Tech Package. |
Besides the technology, cars are made to withstand the impact of a collision thanks to high strength steel that is designed to absorb impact sustained during an accident rather than transferring the force to the passengers. Volvo’s XC90 uses ultra high strength steel in some parts of the car to provide protection to the passengers sitting in the third row. Mazda’s CX5 hatchback has a hatch made of reinforced steel.
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| The Volvo XC90 has crumple zones engineered in the back to keep passengers safe if rear ended. |
Like the Volvo XC90, Mazda’s use of reinforced steel in key areas makes it safer for consumers to provide protection around passengers but the ability for the vehicle to crumple when rear ended.
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| Mazda’s SUV with SkyActiv Technology |
Mazda also spoke about the roll stability in SUV lines like the CS7 and CS9. The dynamic stability control senses driver needs to provide safety. Electronic sensors monitor speed while anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and dynamic stability controls make for a responsive and productive vehicle.
The entire time I was on the course I felt safe. I never felt that the Jeep was going to roll on any of the inclines during the traction or stability tests. The Jeep traversed the log course with ease when putting the ground clearance to the test. I had been warned that the suspension test over a series of logs could be bumpy and while it was, I felt secure in the vehicle which is a testament to the technology that auto manufacturers are using in current models.
I look forward to sharing additional information with you about the latest technology in vehicles designed to make driving safer and photos of some amazing concept cars from the auto show floor.
Auto Alliance and Hynes Communications paid for my travel and accommodations to attend the New York Auto Show. I was not compensated in any other manner for my time. My opinions posted here are my own. Logo courtesy of Auto Alliance.
Original post by Tech Savvy Mama
©2012
I'm a DC Metro area dwelling mom of 2 and former teacher with an background in classroom technology integration & school administration. I am a family internet safety & security expert, social media consultant, columnist for Parents.com and Scholastic Parents, dog owner, car enthusiast, and an avid gardener. I also work for Clever Girls Collective. {
