Dual-stage airbags reach 2000 model cars
High tech air bags now adjust inflation to crash severity on Ford Taurus and Honda Accord. Sensors gauge crash force and belt use to deploy softer inflation in minor crashes and full power when needed. Automakers from Ford to Honda push the tech as safer, with luxury brands and others adopting the system for broader use.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Ashington
Stephen Kozak
Ford
Ricardo Martinez
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Ford Motor Co
Honda Motor Co
Honda
Brian O'Neill
The
Insurance Institute For Highway Safety
Toyota
United States
General Motors
DaimlerChrysler
AGM
Terry Rhadigan
Kozak
Change cabin air filters to curb in-car pollution
Millions of allergy sufferers can upgrade car air quality by cabin air filters now common on newer models since 1995. Filters block up to 90 percent of contaminants, including pollen and exhaust, with some models using activated charcoal. European makers lead adoption. U S cars lag at about 14 percent in 1999. Regular replacement, typically yearly or every 15 000 miles, keeps filtration effective.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
California
South Coastal Air Quality Management District
Car Manufactur
Mercedes Benz
BMW
Audi
Volvo
Volkswagen
Europe
U.S
Stephen Christie
Automotive