Honda, Autoliv Ready Next-Gen Airbag

Honda Motor Co. and Autoliv Inc. have developed a new airbag that promises to protect front-seat passengers better during offset front-impact accidents.

The next-generation airbag features three inflated compartments—a center chamber flanked by two side units—rather than a single compartment used in current airbags.

The design creates a wider base across the dashboard. A new “sail panel” that stretches between the side chambers helps catch an occupant’s head, then pulls the side panels in to cradle the head.

Honda says the system better manages lateral forces and helps prevent a person’s head from rotating or sliding off the airbag. This is particularly beneficial in off-axis collisions in which the seat occupant isn’t thrown straight into the airbag, the carmaker notes.

Honda will introduce the system in unspecified models next year. Under an exclusivity agreement, Autoliv will initially supply the next-generation airbags only to Honda.

A video about the new airbag can be viewed HERE.