Auto Safety Innovations by 2029: A Look Ahead at Advancements in Vehicle Security
In the automotive industry, safety is a top priority, and regulations are being put in place to ensure vehicles are equipped with the latest safety features. One such regulation comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which mandates that all new light vehicles, by September 1, 2029, must be fitted with technologies to detect other vehicles, objects, and pedestrians, as outlined in FMVSS No. 127.
While progress has been made in this area, little advancement has been seen in the rulemaking covering technologies for drunk driver detection. Approaches to this problem include passive breathalyzers, infrared spectroscopy touch-to-start buttons, eye tracking, and measurements of steering wheel movements. However, it appears that final rulemaking on drunk driver detection is not expected in the near future.
One automaker leading the way in crash safety is Volvo. Their latest innovation is the Multiadaptive Safety Belts, which are designed to better tailor seat belt restraint for various human forms, shapes, and sizes. These belts utilize AI, sensors, and onboard computational power to adapt to occupant size, weight, and body type.
The Volvo Multiadaptive Safety Belts also retract and meter belt webbing to provide maximum protection with minimal harm in the event of a crash. In addition, they are equipped with sensors to gather information about the forces acting on the vehicle and from what direction(s).
In a proactive move, Volvo is developing the Multiadaptive Safety Belts for their electric vehicle, the Volvo EX60. The company also plans to update the algorithms for these belts over-the-air as they continue to study crashes.
However, there is a question about what cars should do with the information regarding drunk driver detection. Safely pulling to the side of the road may create an unsafe obstacle for other drivers. This is a complex issue that the industry is working to address.
The NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program will begin testing safety features, including those tested in the interim years, and base star ratings in part on the results. This aims to improve "today's lackluster performance, especially after dark." New testing that will impact star ratings includes lane keeping assist programs, blind-spot warning systems, intervention to prevent lane changes into occupied lanes, and rear seat belt reminders, which will be required in all new passenger vehicles beginning in September 2027.
As we move towards a safer future on the roads, innovations like Volvo's Multiadaptive Safety Belts and ongoing efforts to combat drunk driving are promising steps forward. Despite the challenges, the automotive industry continues to push the boundaries of safety technology to protect drivers and passengers alike.
