Mercedes minimises injuries

Mercedes-Benz unveiled a lifesaving concept at Frankfurt motor show designed to further reduce injuries in the event of an accident. Pre-Safe is designed to recognise a potential collision in advance and activate protection systems, including seatbelt tensioners and adjusting seats, before the impact. Mercedes-Benz accident researchers found that in around two-thirds of accidents there was a relatively long time between recognition and impact. Dr Rudolf Schoeneburg, head of safety development at Mercedes-Benz, said: “Our present protection systems such as airbags, window bags or belt tensioners must ensure safety in a matter of milliseconds, even through accident recognition can be measured in seconds. “Making use of this interval opens up new dimensions in occupant protection.” A DaimlerChrysler spokeswoman said the system was unlikely to go into production for another couple of years.