Why BMW is the world's safest car |
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BMW Safety Timeline |
Here are some major milestone events for BMW's Safety Program (continued):
| 1990 |
Automatic Front Seat Belt Tensioners
This system automatically tightens the front belts in a collision, further improving occupant restraint. The
tensioners are integrated into the belt latches, mounted to the inboard side of each front seat. On impact, the system pulls the latch downward to tighten both the shoulder and
lap belt portions directly.
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| 1989 |
Seat Integrated Belt System (SBS)
By anchoring the entire belt system to the seat itself, SBS provides an optimum, consistent belt run. The
shoulder belt, being anchored in a locking/clamping reel just behind the shoulder, is significantly shorter than one anchored to the lower body or B-pillar, so there's less belt
stretch when the belt is restraining the occupant eliminating the need for a belt tensioner.
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| 1986 |
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
BMW was the first manufacturer in the U.S. to offer ABS across the model line in 1986. The system minimizes
wheel lock-up, which can occur in bad weather (like rain, ice or snow), but can also occur on a dry road. No matter how hard the driver brakes, the wheels do not lock up and skid.
So, whether driving on a curve or on a straight, rough or smooth road, slick or dry, the driver can safely steer the car under braking, potentially avoiding an accident.
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| 1985 |
Driver's Side Front Airbag
Introduced the driver's airbag, which in a severe frontal impact inflates in less than 40 milliseconds and
helps prevent the driver from being thrown against the steering wheel and dashboard. The airbag is a supplement to the use of the safety belt, the primary restraint system in the
vehicle.
Impact Sensor
In the event of a collision, the impact sensor automatically unlocks the doors and turns on the four-way
flashers and interior lights to facilitate rescue of the occupants.
Adjustable Seat Belt Anchoring Points
Front seat belt anchoring points are adjustable for height, either manually or automatically, so the ideal
belt positioning can be established regardless of the size of the occupant.
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