Extreme sports safety kit to inspire Volvo technologies

SWEDISH car maker Volvo is aiming to develop new safety technologies based on processes used to make extreme sports safety gear.

The firm has announced a partnership with POC, another Swedish company, which designs lightweight, strong and high-tech safety equipment for climbers, snowboarders, mountain bikers and other extreme sports fanatics.

The initial focus will be on the relationship between cars and cyclists, with the specific aim of developing a one-way method of communicating that the driver has seen the cyclist.

“Communication with cyclists around the car is a possible extension of our groundbreaking Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology, said Jan Ivarsson, Senior Manager, Safety Strategy and Requirements at Volvo Cars.

“Providing the cyclist with confirmation that he or she is seen by the vehicle can make interaction between cars and cyclists smoother and safer in urban areas.”

Stefan Ytterborn, CEO and founder of POC added: “With POC’s mission of doing the best we can to possibly save lives and reduce the consequences of accidents for extreme sports athletes and cyclists, it's a treasure to interact on cycling safety together with Volvo Cars.

“They have the vision, competence and experience and have been leading the development within road safety for more than 80 years.”

Volvo claims that the forthcoming Concept XC Coupe, which is to be shown at the annual Detroit motor show soon, is already inspired by the design of modern extreme sports safety gear.

“Several orange details and exterior graphics combined with bold use of matte rubber mouldings, which cover the rear of the car, add to the highly functional expression of the design,” explained Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President of Design at Volvo Cars.

By Press Association reporter