Volvo C70 convertible, Press Information

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Protective horseshoe and new side airbags
The SIPS system functions in the same way as it does in other models, but its appearance
differs. As the roof is included in the SIPS system in other Volvo cars, different design
solutions have to be used to do the corresponding work in the convertible. As a result, the
structure round the passenger compartment is shaped like a horseshoe and absorbs and
dissipates the collision energy very effectively.
The Volvo C70 convertible is equipped with the new second-generation side airbag, the
SIPS bag. This is larger than the previous bag and protects both the chest and head.
The SIPS bag is fitted in the outer edge of the front-seat backrest and has long been
standard on all Volvo models. Since it is integrated in the seat, the side airbag is always
beside the occupant regardless of how the seat is adjusted, thus ensuring optimum
protection.
The original purpose of the side airbag was to reduce the risk of chest and abdominal
injuries by providing a cushion between the occupant and the intruding car side.
The new airbag, which offers extended protection, is really two in one. A lower section
still protects the chest and abdomen while a new upper section protects the head in most
types of side impacts.
Thanks to the electronic sensors, the system provides an precise activating of the SIPS
bag in different types of side impacts. The lower section is inflated after a hundredth of a
second and the upper section after just over two hundredths of a second.
New whiplash protection system
Volvo has developed a new car seat which is designed to reduce the injuries from year-
end collisions at low and moderate speeds. The WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System)
seats were introduced in the Volvo S80 last year and they are now a standard feature in
both front seats in all Volvo models, including the C70 convertible.
The WHIPS seat is activated when the occupant is forced back against the backrest and
head restraint in rear impact.
The entire upper body and head is cushioned in a balanced, gentle manner as the backrest
and head restraint move backwards in a parallel movement in this way, the distance
between the head and head restraint is kept as short as possible. This is highly important,
as the risk of a whiplash injury is reduced if the head movement is minimised.
When the initial cushioning process is complete, the backrest is tipped backwards while
absorbing energy to enable the body to continue being cushioned in a balanced manner.
This also reduces the forward rebound which takes place in the end of the collision.