Ford Focus to feature new airbag technologies

In order to enhance protection for front seat occupants in the most common frontal and side crashes, Ford will be featuring on its all-new 2012 Focus exclusive airbag technologies.

The innovations include a new generation driver-front airbag with enhanced chest protection technology. With a reconfigured curve-shaped tether system, the new airbag pulls in the lower section to create a “pocket” that reduces the impact of the airbag on the driver’s chest and ribs in frontal crashes.

The side airbags come with unique shoulder vents that stay open and reduce pressure for smaller occupants who typically benefit from reduced forces. In the case of taller occupants they could benefit from the higher pressures as their shoulders block the vent.

Ford also has in stake for the new Focus the implementation for the first time of front passenger airbags with adaptive venting. This technology redirects some of the gas from the airbag inflators through vents outside of the airbags.

“This is our most advanced airbag system ever in a Ford car, and is designed to enhance protection for front occupants in the most common types of crashes,” said Sue Cischke, Ford group vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. “Each of these airbags uses innovative technologies to help customize airbag protection to the occupant.”

Starting on the all-new 2012 Ford Focus, which goes on sale early next year in North America, the new airbag technologies will be also featuring in other Ford vehicles throughout the next years.