Driving Innovation: Mercedes-Benz's Commitment to Safety

2024-07-09

Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its commitment to automotive safety, a reputation built on decades of research and groundbreaking innovations. Our core philosophy of ‘real-life safety’ ensures that every Mercedes-Benz vehicle is designed to protect occupants in real-world accidents. Since 1969, our accident research department has been meticulously analysing real-world crashes, incorporating these insights into our vehicle designs.

At Tynan Motors Mercedes-Benz Miranda, we take pride in being part of this legacy of safety. Extensive crash testing at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Centre for Vehicle Safety in Sindelfingen, which includes up to 900 tests per year with a diverse array of crash test dummies, further informs safety innovations for the brand. In 2023, Mercedes-Benz became the first car manufacturer to conduct a public crash test with two all-electric vehicles and to X-ray a car during a crash test, revealing previously unseen elements of internal deformation.

This rigorous testing and research enable Mercedes-Benz to continuously develop new safety technologies and enhance existing systems. The latest models, including the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan, showcase these advancements, offering top-tier safety features to protect drivers, passengers, and other road users. Let’s explore some landmark safety innovations Mercedes-Benz has introduced over the years. Visit Tynan Mercedes-Benz Miranda to experience these innovations firsthand and see how we prioritise your safety on every journey.

Milestones in Safety Innovation

1959 – Safety Bodyshell with Crumple Zones

Mercedes-Benz revolutionised automotive safety with the introduction of the safety bodyshell, designed by engineer Béla Barényi. Debuting in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W 111 Saloons, these were the first production vehicles to feature crumple zones at the front and rear, with a rigid passenger cell in between, absorbing crash impacts to reduce harm to occupants.

1978 – Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

The ABS, developed in collaboration with Bosch and first introduced in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W 116, was a groundbreaking innovation. By preventing wheel lock during emergency braking and stabilizing the car when cornering, ABS enhances driver control and vehicle stability.

1981 – Airbags

Mercedes-Benz introduced the first driver’s airbag in the S-Class Saloons (model series 126) with a seatbelt tensioner. This innovation, which took 15 years of development, set a new standard in automotive safety. By 1992, driver and front passenger airbags became standard in the S-Class, SL, and 400 E and 500 E models.

1995 – Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Developed with Bosch, ESP was launched in the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Coupé (model series 140). This system uses extensive sensor technology to maintain vehicle stability by detecting wheel spin and skidding, applying corrective braking, and adjusting engine torque to help the driver maintain control.

2002 – PRE-SAFE Passenger Protection System

Introduced in the S-Class W 220, PRE-SAFE uses sensors to detect impending collisions and prepares the car for impact by closing windows, adjusting seats, and tightening seatbelts. PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side and PRE-SAFE® PLUS, introduced in 2013, further enhance protection by reacting to side-on and rear-end collisions.

2005 – Brake Assist

First featured in the S-Class W 221, Brake Assist helps minimize the risk of collisions by warning the driver of potential crashes, priming the braking system, and initiating autonomous braking if the driver fails to respond. This system is now a standard feature in 10 million Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Advanced Safety Features in the New E-Class Sedan

The latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan incorporates these historic innovations alongside new safety features:

Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC: Adapts speed to match slower-moving vehicles in stop-start traffic.
Active Emergency Stop Assist: Detects extended driver inactivity and safely brings the car to a halt.
Active Lane Keeping Assist: Corrects unintentional lane departures.
Evasive Steering Assist: Helps with evasive maneuvers to avoid pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety continues to drive the automotive industry forward, ensuring the protection of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and all road users.

Visit Tynan Motors Mercedes-Benz

For more information or to experience these innovations firsthand, visit Tynan Motors Mercedes-Benz at Miranda. Discover how Mercedes-Benz continues to set the standard for automotive safety.

Address: The Boulevarde & Kiora Rd, Miranda NSW 2228
Phone: (02) 8545 8300