Japanese Automakers Look at Air Bag Improvements

12/10/96

Kyodo reports that Japanese automakers are trying to improve the safety of automobile air bags in the interest of reducing the risk of injury from collisions. Toyota and Nissan will develop air bags that adjust the speed of deployment according to the passenger's weight and will try to increase customers' awareness about air bags in general.

The carmakers said their announcements were prompted by reports of recent deaths and injuries sustained by U.S. children who were not strapped into their seats when air bags deployed. The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association says that the rate of passenger car air bag use rose from 6% in 1994 to 34% in 1995, and is expected to reach about 60% this year. Manufacturers fear that greater airbag use in Japan will lead to accidents like those reported in the U.S.

Industry sources say that all Nissan cars and sports utility vehicles now come with air bags for drivers and that Toyota will complete equipping its cars by next March.

The automakers say they will also urge consumers to put child safety seats seats in the rear and to ensure that passengers are strapped before driving.

Paul Dever -- The Auto Channel