Volvo S60

This is the first car in the world to slam on the brakes if someone steps into the road in front of it. Volvo’s new S60, previewed at the Detroit Motor Show, has technology called Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection.

Also to be offered on the XC60 SUV, this claims to cut collision force by 75 per cent, boosting the victim’s survival chances. But at speeds below 12mph, the impact can be avoided completely.

The technology combines radar and a camera to monitor the road ahead. It warns the driver if it thinks a collision is imminent – but if they fail to respond, the brakes areapplied. The system should help keep the car’s dramatic coupé-like body intact – there’s a bold grille, thick shoulder lines and striking tail-lights.

The S60 will be available with a range of green engines, including the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol powerplant in the show car. This produces 180bhp, but stop-start technology means it emits only 119g/km of CO2.

While there’s no word on prices, we’d expect the range to start from around £20,000.