Since the invention of the first car, safety features incorporated in cars have continually evolved. Several adjustments and modifications have been made to offer protection both to passengers and drivers. The shift from the horse’s age to that of motor vehicles has proved to be very perilous. As early as 1908, newspapers were recording the occurrence of motor vehicle accidents. Present, governments worldwide have continually regulated the motor vehicle industry. These regulations tend to ensure that vehicle manufactures make vehicles that will guarantee its occupants’ safety. Driving a car has an accompanying associated risk, but today, driving is much less hazardous than in the early years. Ensuring that your vehicle is roadworthy is one way to ensure safety while travelling in your car. Ensure that you always source your car parts from reliable shops. Online reviews such as car parts 4 less reviews will help to identify the reputable shops. Those who opt for rental cars car companies reviews will help you choose a reputable company. This article seeks to discuss the evolution of car safety technology.
Understanding vehicle safety technology
Vehicle safety technology refers to a unique technology whose main aim is to achieve the security and safety of vehicles, occupants, and adjacent roadways. The term may look new, but vehicle safety technology dates back to the 18th century. As vehicle use increased, manufacturers and legislators started thinking of ways to curb the number of road fatalities and accidents.
The evolution of car safety with time
1900-1940
The initial motor vehicles were solid, heavy, and hard to control, making them prone to quick crashes. This occasioned the introduction of various safety measures in the 20th century’s first forty years, helping reduce the probability of vehicles getting involved in accidents.
1903: Mary Anderson developed and patented wiper blades in 1903. This wipe blades entailed a simple level that was in the car. It was linked to a rubber blade that was in the cars outside and was hand-operated.
1911: For the first time, rear mirrors were used.
1914: The initial rotating indicators were invented by a Hollywood actress Florence Lawrence. It was referred to as an auto signalling arm and was lowered or raised by electric push buttons.
1921: Benjamin Katz invented the headrest to decrease the harm instigated by whiplash in rear-end accidents. Also for the first time road cars used hydraulic brakes.
1927: To help prevent the shattering of windshields on impact, safety glass was utilised.
1934: General motors conducted the first-ever crash test
1947:The tucker Sedan became the initial car to have padded dashboards, whose main aim was to ensure they reduce chest and face damage when involved in a head-on collision.
The 1950s
1951: Walter Linderer made an airbag which was released on contact to the car bumper.
1952: The crumple zone concept whose main aim was to absorb a crash’s impact was designed by Bela Barenyi a Mercedes Benz engineers.
1953:The Caliper-Type disc brakes which were more reliable were developed by Dunlop and Jaguar
1959: Volvo introduced the three-point seatbelt, it involved strapping the shoulder and the lap to offer extra protection. This invention remains one of the best car safety features and the most efficient to be ever created.
The 1960s
The ’60s were majorly characterised by an increase in car safety rules that made it mandatory for cars to have certain features such as head restraints and seat belts.
1963: Excelsior Motor Company introduced the inertia-reel seatbelt that made it possible for the seatbelt to re-adjust as per the passenger’s preference. This period also saw the introduction of intermittent wipers.
1966: All cars made in Europe were required to have front seat belts. It was also mandatory for the vehicles to have padded dashboards.
The 1970s and 80s
Car safety technology started to rely much on electronics.
1974: Optional airbags for the passenger and driver’s seat were provided by companies such as general motors.
1981: Mercedes-Benz produced the first car with a supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbag for the driver’s seat.
The 1990s
1993: Vehicles safety was classified based on their result from crash tests.
1995: Bosch and Mercedes-Benz introduced electronic stability control.
The 2000s
The 2000s were characterised by introducing the initial five-star rated car in Europe, more development in the computer technology used in vehicles and other protective measures to protect pedestrians.
2000: The lane Departure Warning system was developed for trucks in Europe by Iteris and utilised audible, vibrations and visual warnings to alert the driver if they got out of their lane.
2008: Volvo introduced the autonomous braking system on its XC60.
2010: Volvo develops the pedestrian detection system.
In conclusion, by looking at how vehicle safety technology has evolved with time, one can appreciate how long we have come to reach to the modern, sophisticated vehicle safety systems.