Ford innovates safety like no other automaker in the world today. Even safety features that seem to be at the top of their game, like safety belts, can be improved in the eyes of Ford. When looking at the standard three-point model that has been in use since 1959, they saw something that could be, once again, innovated, and innovate they did. More specifically, they created a new optional safety package for the Ford Explorer which allows the rear seatbelts to inflate in order to provide greater support in car crashes.

We here at Anderson Ford think this is an incredible idea, and one that other automakers are sure to adopt in the near future. In fact, the new idea is so incredible that Ford was actually recognized for it at this year's Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Awards.

Other devices that were recognized at the event include a 25,000-hour light bulb, solar panels that use up to 70 percent less silicone than others, and a smog-eating roof tile. Of course, these breakthroughs weren't in direct competition with each other, as Popular Mechanics  honors people and inventions that stand out in their respective industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medicine, and so forth.

How does the new seatbelt work? Specifically, the seatbelt releases compressed gas into a concealed airbag upon impact. This breaks through the fabric of the seatbelt, causing it to inflate. Once inflated, these new seatbelts actively provide up to five times the typical support seen in today's seat belts.

Accepting the award was Srini Sundararajan, Safety Technical Leader, Ford Research and Innovation. When accepting the award, he graciously said, "[Our] goal is to develop safety technologies that give our customers peace of mind?I thank Popular Mechanics for recognizing the contributions of a number of dedicated engineers at Ford."¹

Interested in more Ford news? Make sure to check back often, as we're doing everything in our power to keep you informed. If you'd like to learn more about the new Ford models that we carry, then be sure to load up the online inventory and showroom pages today.

Through these pages, you'll gain a better understanding of each of the new and used Ford models that we carry, so that you can rest easy, knowing that you're making a truly informed decision about your next vehicle. But, if you're really just wanting to get behind the wheel of your next new or used car, then make sure to arrange a test drive with us at 1001 State Route 10 West Clinton, IL 61727. Whether you're considering the Ford Fiesta, Ford Escape, or Ford Taurus, test drives can be arranged by either dialing (888) 715-6476 or by submitting a contact form online.

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