Volvo C70 convertible, Информация для прессы

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Volvo Car Corporation
Press Information
Volvo C70 convertible - a new safety dimension for open cars
The Volvo C70 convertible is very definitely also a car for our sixth sense -
common sense.
It sets a new safety standard for open cars, by being the first car on the
convertible market with automatic seatbelt pretensioners on all four seats,
for example.
The Volvo C70 convertible has a structure which is based on the Volvo S70 and has
basically the same safety features, with the same high level of safety in frontal, rear and
side impacts.
However, for natural reasons, roll-overs are the greatest challenge when it comes to the
safety design of an open car. One or more systems have to take over the supporting
function performed by the roof.
In the Volvo C70 convertible, the A-pillars and windscreen frame are reinforced with
special steel and, in combination with the automatic roll-over hoops at the rear, they
provide top-class protection if the car turns over.
This system is known as ROPS, Roll Over Protection System.
The roll-over hoops are concealed behind the standard head restraints. They are activated
if the car turns over. A special sensor ensures that these hoops shoot up above head
height. At the front, the strong A-pillars and windscreen frame function as a roll-over
hoop.
Four pretensioners
The ROPS system also includes four seatbelt pretensioners which are activated by the
same sensor which triggers the front airbags. This sensor is situated in the centre console
between the front seats.
All the belt pretensioners are pyrotechnical. A powder charge pulls a wire which then
tightens the belt on the reel. The pretensioner is located next to the reel.
By tightening the belt at lighting speed in an accident, the pretensioner eliminates slack
in the belt. If the car rolls over, it is naturally very important that the occupants are held
firmly in place in their seats.
ROPS is part of the Volvo C70 convertible's total protection system, which also includes
a powerful basic structure, one or two front airbags, the SIPS side impact protection
system with its associated SIPS bags, and the new Whiplash Protection System, WHIPS.