VOLVO SEATS GET TOP SCORES IN 2008 THATCHAM WHIPLASH TESTS
VOLVO SEATS GET TOP SCORES IN 2008 THATCHAM WHIPLASH TESTS
Volvo continues to be on top in whiplash safety after achieving 'all good' scores for the entire model range in the latest whiplash ratings by the UK's Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, Thatcham¹
In fact, Volvo was one of only three manufacturers to achieve top 'Good' scores for every model tested² thanks to its supportive seats which have a fixed head restraint position to ensure they are always in the correct position to offer the best support and WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System).
All models in the Volvo range feature WHIPS as standard. WHIPS reduces acceleration forces on the neck during a rear-end accident by about a half. In the event of an accident, the entire backrest moves rearwards to reduce the strain on the occupant's back and neck. Then, when their back has been safely restrained by the backrest, it inclines backwards in order to reduce the force that would otherwise throw their head forwards.
Volvo's traffic accident research team compared real-life whiplash injuries from Volvos with and without WHIPS, and the results point to a clear conclusion: WHIPS reduced short-term and long-term (of more than a year) injuries by 33 per cent and 54 per cent respectively, while whiplash injuries in women were reduced by as much as 50 per cent and 75 per cent, respectively.
Thatcham tests seats from new cars and gives them score ratings. Ratings range from a top score of 'G' (for 'good' protection), to 'A' (acceptable), 'M' (marginal), to 'P' (poor) and 'R' (manufacturer refused to submit seats). According to the Thatcham tests, all Volvo seats were awarded the top 'G' score.
Matthew Avery, Crash Laboratory Manager at Thatcham said: "Volvo has shown a continuing commitment to safety, and their seats once again performed very well in our tests. This is supported by real world injury data which confirms that these seats do produce a significant reduction in whiplash injuries - Volvo continue to be the trend setter in this area."
Ends
Notes to Editors:
- Full details of the 2008 results of the Thatcham Whiplash Testing are available at: www.thatcham.org/ncwr
- The Volvo C30, S40, S60, S80, V50, XC90 and all-new V70 all received the top 'Good' rating in the 2008 model year results of the Thatcham Whiplash Testing.