2012 Ford Focus Already Crashed More Than 12,000 Times!

When the new generation Ford Focus comes out next year it’ll be one of the best engineered cars in this segment with many useful features and technologies. We’ve told you about some of its great convenience features, but now Ford has released some details about its safety. The most interesting fact about the 2012 Focus is that they’ve crashed it more than 12,000 times in real and virtual worlds to make sure every bit is as safe as possible. It’s also resulted in new and innovative technologies like advanced restraint systems with innovative next-generation airbags and specialized B-pillar reinforcement. Crashed by Ford to take the heat The thousands of computer aided engineering (CAE) crashes and simulations allowed engineers to test hundreds of designs. The physical crash tests, conducted after a battery of virtual simulations, verify and validate the computer simulations to ensure every internal and external requirement is met. “We are using more computer simulations than ever to optimize the designs of all the components that make up a vehicle to help enhance safety,” Niesluchowski said. “The complexity of crash tests, with hundreds of parts and systems interacting, still requires physical testing to validate those simulation results.” Improved interior safety features The Focus offers a suite of new safety innovations, which includes Ford’s next-generation driver-front airbag with enhanced chest protection technology. The new airbag uses a reconfigured curve-shaped tether system that pulls in the lower section to create a “pocket” to help lessen the impact of the airbag on the driver’s chest and ribs in frontal crashes. Ford’s innovative side airbags feature unique shoulder vents that stay open and reduce pressure for smaller occupants who typically benefit from reduced forces. Taller occupants whose shoulders block the vent could benefit from the higher pressures. Focus also will be Ford’s first car ever to feature front passenger airbags with adaptive venting technology that diverts some of the gas from the air bag inflators through vents outside of the airbags. The restraints control module – the control center of Ford’s advanced safety systems – adjusts the level of venting based on seat position. The new passenger airbag is designed to enhance head and neck protection by better matching deployment force with occupant size. This innovative system uses a small pyrotechnic device to force open the vent and can provide less pressure in the airbag when it’s sufficient to help protect the occupant. Innovative “tailor-rolling” process In addition to the new airbags, the new Focus’ vehicle structure provides enhanced crash protection with a B-pillar reinforcement, a key structural part made from ultra-high-strength steel produced using an innovative “tailor rolling” process. The process allows the thickness of the steel sheet to be varied along its length so the component has increased strength in the areas that are subjected to the greatest loads. High-strength steels comprise 55 percent of the Focus’ body shell, and ultra-high-strength and boron steels make up more than 31 percent of its skeletal structure. These advanced materials help the structure meet crash regulations across world markets while minimizing the vehicle’s weight to help maximize fuel economy. Comprehensive suite of active safety technologies The Ford Focus also features a comprehensive suite of advanced active safety technologies, including: * AdvanceTrac® with Electronic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control * LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) System * Three-point, height-adjustable seat belts for each passenger; height-adjustable, Belt-Minder™ system and pretensioners in the front outboard seating positions