When we showed you the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the Detroit Auto Show, we mentioned that it had an amazing 11 airbags. What we missed in the press release was that one of those bags was a pelvic airbag. Kicking Tires caught that little nugget and dug up the backstory. The Mercedes pelvic airbag seems to be an industry first, and as such, one that deserves its own mention. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says they don't know of any other pelvic bags in use, but they do point out that some regular side airbags appear to be large enough to cover the pelvic area.
As you may know, traditional side airbags have been around for some time. Most are seat-mounted and generally only cover the upper torso. These new pelvic airbags are also mounted in the front seats, but at hip level to protect the pelvis and reduce impact forces on the abdomen, according to Mercedes spokesman Rob Moran. Right now you can find them in the 2009 C-Class and 2010 E-Class, but they will likely pop up in other models soon.
[Source: Kicking Tires]
As you may know, traditional side airbags have been around for some time. Most are seat-mounted and generally only cover the upper torso. These new pelvic airbags are also mounted in the front seats, but at hip level to protect the pelvis and reduce impact forces on the abdomen, according to Mercedes spokesman Rob Moran. Right now you can find them in the 2009 C-Class and 2010 E-Class, but they will likely pop up in other models soon.
[Source: Kicking Tires]
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