19:55 23-01-2026

Volvo EX60 introduces adaptive seatbelt technology

Volvo is changing the game again with its new EX60, which debuts a multi-adaptive seatbelt that adjusts to the passenger and situation even before a collision occurs. This marks the first major evolution of seatbelt technology since the invention of the three-point belt in 1959.

Why Standard Seatbelts Are Outdated

Traditional safety systems were designed around an "average passenger." In reality, people vary in height, weight, and seating position, while accidents differ in speed and impact direction. A standard seatbelt doesn't account for these variations, applying the same force to everyone, which limits its protective effectiveness.

In the EX60, the seatbelt becomes a personalized component, tailored to the specific individual and specific accident.

How the Seatbelt Analyzes Body and Accident

The new system uses data from external and internal sensors in the EX60. In fractions of a second, the seatbelt receives information about the direction and force of impact, the vehicle's speed, and the passenger's size and posture.

Based on this, it selects one of 11 load-limiting modes. This allows it to apply precisely the right amount of force: less for fragile passengers, more for protection in high-speed collisions.

The system operates fully automatically, without any manual input from humans.

Technology Built on Real-World Accidents

Volvo drew on a database of over 80,000 documented accidents and 50 years of research practice. The new seatbelt underwent virtual and physical testing at the company's crash center, where engineers replicate real-world collision scenarios, not just standardized ones.

This database enabled the creation of a system that can adapt to rare and complex impact types not covered by standard regulations.

A Seatbelt That Gets Smarter Over Time

Like other electronic systems in the EX60, the seatbelt supports wireless updates. It can improve its protection strategy based on new data and algorithms, effectively making it the first seatbelt system that evolves after the car is purchased.

The technology integrates with airbags, passenger detection systems, and driver assistance features, creating a unified protective environment.

Volvo once again reinforces its status as a leader in automotive safety. The multi-adaptive seatbelt in the EX60 represents a shift from universal protection to individualized safety that accounts for each passenger's unique characteristics. In Volvo's history, there was already a seatbelt that saved millions of lives. This new step could prove equally significant.