General Motors Corporation (GM) has contracted for some innovative technology from German electronics supplier, Continental AG that is intended to help motorists avoid crashes, and protect occupants when crashes can’t be avoided.

The system, which operates from sensors installed below the grille of an auto, detects when the vehicle is about to come in contact with another object.  It automatically applies sufficient braking power to help the driver avoid an accident after split-second calculations are made to account for speed of travel and distance to the object.

When crashes can’t be avoided, the system automates functions designed to protect the driver and passengers, keeping them positioned and intact inside the passenger compartment.  For example, the seat moves to an upright position to keep a passenger from sliding out from under the seatbelt, and the sunroof closes to prevent passenger ejection.

GM Puts Implementation of New Technology on the Fast Track

What’s specifically unique about this deal, according to the Detroit free Press, is the speed with which GM is implementing the technology.  Ten years ago it might have taken three to five years to push a new product or design past the purchasing executives. Today, the process can take less than one year from the initial presentation, through the testing and modifying phases, to the signing of a contract.

The faster speed with which GM is able to change its product should help to keep the company innovative and competitive despite an unstable economy.  GM is said to be looking seriously at additional product innovations that will increase fuel efficiency and enhance the safety and comfort of its cars.

Two such products GM is rumored to be considering with great interest are cameras for side view mirrors that monitor blind spots making it easier for drivers to change traffic lanes, and booster seats that pop out of the ordinary seat bench to protect children too large for baby seats and too small to be properly secured with shoulder strap seatbelts.

content & design 2002-2008 David Williams and SafeCollisionRepairs.com

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For more than ten years, David Williams of Wheelersburg, Ohio's Safe Collision Repairs has worked with consumers and attorneys in the tri-states of Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia to expose unsafe auto repairs and maximize recovery on auto insurance claims. Some of the company's services include Post-Repair Inspections, Prepurchase Inspections, Auto Damage Assessments, Lemon Law Investigations, Expert Court Testimony and Diminished Value Calculations using an advanced version of Network Information Communication's WreckCheck program.

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The content expressed on this website and in the article above represents the opinions of David A. Williams. Williams is neither an attorney nor public insurance adjuster, but is an expert, consultant, and writer specializing in the field of automotive collision repair and valuations. The information provided herein is not intended to be a substitute for legal or insurance advice. Because collision repair is a continually evolving science, any text, materials or links found herein are provided without claim or guarantee to their accuracy or completeness.