Toyota develops new rear-impact airbag for iQ

Compact cars are about to get a lot safer thanks to the development of a new rear-impact airbag, which will debut in the final production of the Toyota iQ minicar. The iQ is designed to seat four people and measures less than three meters in length and should be on sale in Europe and Japan by 2009, with the U.S. expected to follow soon after.

During a recent interview with News.com.au, the iQ’s chief designers Hiroki Nakajima revealed that the car features a new rear-impact airbag. “It is for rear-seat people. But there are some issues with certification. It is still secret,†Nakajima explained.

The iQ features a unique 3+1 seating arrangement, meaning it can hold a maximum of 3 adults and 1 child. Rear seat passengers sit just 30cm from the rear window, thus the need for improved protection up back.

Nakajima says the rear-airbag system helps to ensure the iQ will have a five-star NCAP safety rating.

Source: Motor Authority