Subaru has announced that it will be introducing next-generation external airbags on its Forester SUV model in its upcoming update, with a focus on enhancing safety for cyclists – a vulnerable group in automotive collision scenarios.
This development builds upon Subaru’s earlier introduction of external airbag technology in 2016. Over the past decade, the system has primarily been designed to protect pedestrians and has been featured on several models, including the Impreza, WRX, Legacy, Crosstrek, and Levorg.
Subaru’s first-generation external airbags deploy near the top of the hood upon impact detection, creating a softer contact area to minimize head injuries for pedestrians. However, this design falls short when it comes to protecting cyclists, who are seated higher and often collide with areas like the windshield or A-pillar.
To address this limitation, Subaru has completely redesigned the external airbag system. The new airbags will extend to both sides, covering a significant portion of the windshield edges, especially the A-pillar, which is considered one of the hardest and most dangerous parts of a vehicle in a collision.
Additionally, Subaru has optimized the upper and lower fixation points of the airbags to ensure the highest level of protection for both cyclists and pedestrians in complex traffic situations.
While there have been personal airbag vests for cyclists, such as the Helite B’Safe vest, their high cost (ranging in the hundreds of dollars) and requirement for active wearing have hindered their widespread adoption. The vest’s bulkiness and inconvenience in daily use have also been significant barriers for consumers.
Subaru’s proactive effort to integrate protection directly into the vehicle has been well-received by experts. This move not only showcases a forward-thinking design approach centered on community safety but also paves the way for new developments in passive safety technologies within the automotive industry.
Despite being hailed as a breakthrough, Subaru has not yet confirmed whether the cyclist-focused external airbag system will be featured on Forester models sold outside of Japan, including the US and European markets. The Japanese automaker has not provided an official response regarding the expansion plans for this technology.
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