Cars House

Volvo's seats have been awarded a top score in independent safety tests, according to TopGear. The 2006 Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, also known as the Thatcham tests, carries out the testing and found that every Volvo model scored top marks for reducing whiplash. Meanwhile, Saab also received a top rating in the rear-end collision tests by Thatcham. In the event of a rear-end shunt, the occupant's body will naturally be pushed back into the lower part of the seat. Saab's SAHR uses mechanical linkage that responds to this by pushing the upper part (including the head restraint) forwards. The occupant's head is therefore restrained before it can start moving too quickly, greatly reducing the chances of whiplash. Volvo also uses a similar system (shown right). "These companies have shown a continuing commitment to safety," said Matthew Avery, crash laboratory manager at Thatcham. "This is supported by real world data which confirms these seats produce a significant reduction in whiplash injuries."