As car interiors shift to lounge-like setups, proper leg positioning is essential. With seats pushed back, the risk of injury during collisions increases:
- Crash dynamics: An impact transfers energy to body parts in contact with the vehicle.
- Knee airbag efficiency: The Active Heel Airbag complements knee airbags to prevent awkward twisting of the knees.
- Protection mechanics: By redirecting crash energy, the vehicle absorbs the force rather than the femur, lowering the risk of severe injuries.
A report from the UK’s Department of Transport in 2020 highlighted the significant prevalence of leg injuries in car accidents, including:
- Nearly 2,684 individuals affected
- 5% of total injuries involved leg or ankle trauma
- Wasted resources: Hospital bills, sick pay, and lost productivity add up significantly.
- Preventable injuries: A heel airbag could drastically reduce these statistics.
Note: This technology is most effective if passengers keep their feet in the footwell—so, lounge enthusiasts, take heed!
ZF plans to roll out this technology by 2028, signaling a promising advancement in vehicle safety.
ZF's Active Heel Airbag aims to enhance safety in future self-driving cars by minimizing leg injuries during collisions. By redirecting crash forces and improving airbag efficiency, this innovation could significantly reduce the socio-economic burden of leg trauma on society. The technology is set to debut in 2028—representing a step forward in automotive safety.
