It's Curtains For Convertibles

Safety-conscious Volvo has turned airbag technology on its head. Curtain bags, which protect occupants in the event of a rollover crash, are fast becoming commonplace, but convertibles have always missed out because of their lack of a roof.

Auto Express Car Reviews

08th January 2004

But not any more, as the Swedish firm is set to introduce a new inflatable curtain for its next generation of drop-tops. Instead of fitting the bag into the roof lining, it has turned the inflatable device upside down and slotted it inside the door panel.

In an impact, the bag will inflate and push upwards, cushioning the passenger's head before it hits the window or B-pillar. The technology will debut in the firm's S60-based convertible, due at the end of this year. Volvo isn't resting on its laurels until then, though, as its Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is going into production, too. This uses digital camera technology to constantly monitor a driver's blind spot.

A warning light illuminates whenever another vehicle is approaching from behind and enters the monitored zone. BLIS works in daylight and the dark, and does not react to parked cars or lamp posts.

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