A Chinese automotive supplier has redesigned the traditional airbag to create what it calls the world’s first helmet-style airbag built directly into vehicle seats, aiming to improve passenger protection in crashes.

 

 

 

A Chinese automotive supplier has redesigned the traditional airbag to create what it calls the world’s first helmet-style airbag built directly into vehicle seats, aiming to improve passenger protection in crashes.

The system inflates around the head, neck, shoulders, and spine, deploying alongside side airbags to envelop occupants rather than protecting a single impact point.

Integrated sensors linked to driver-assistance systems can detect whether a seat is reclined during a crash and automatically return it to an upright position within milliseconds.

Reports say the system may debut in the Luxeed V9, a joint project involving Huawei and Chery.