Mercedes-Benz has confirmed it will offer inflatable seatbelt technology in 2013, likely in the new S-Class, potentially making it the first prestige manufacturer do so.
The inflatable rear seat belts, dubbed Beltbags, are activated when crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact. When this occurs, the belts inflate to nearly three times their normal width, providing a larger surface area that is better able to distribute the forces acting on the rear passengers. This greatly reduces the risk of injury because less strain is placed on the ribcage.
Mercedes worked intensely with virtual human models when developing the Beltbag, as crash dummy measurement technology was not capable of quantifying the benefits of having a wider belt strap surface area. Computer-generated models, however, made it possible to obtain detailed data on the biomechanical strain on occupants during a collision.
The system will launch in new markets first, likely starting with China, where the brand’s customers prefer to travel in the back row – where the system will initially be fitted.
Ford was the first manufacturer to introduce inflatable rear seatbelts. The seatbelt airbags are available in the 2011 Ford Explorer in North America and will be included as an option in the next-generation Ford Mondeo, due to reach showrooms in Europe next year. The Ford Mondeo will make Ford the first manufacturer to offer seatbelt airbags in a mainstream car in Europe.
