Cyclist-Safe Forester

Subaru’s Innovative Forester Airbag for Cyclists

Car safety has come a long way, hasn’t it? Remember when seat belts were optional? These days, car manufacturers are all about pushing the envelope with safety innovations. Subaru recently made a significant leap with its latest Forester model by introducing an external airbag designed to protect cyclists during a collision. It’s only available in Japan for now, but it sure is something to talk about.

Innovative Safety

This isn’t Subaru’s first foray into pioneering safety features. Back in 2016, they introduced pedestrian airbags on models like the Impreza and WRX. These airbags would inflate near the top of the hood to cushion the impact for a pedestrian’s head. However, cyclists, being higher off the ground, didn’t benefit as much from this feature.

Subaru’s solution? They’ve redesigned the airbag to extend up the sides of the windshield. This new design aims to protect cyclists from one of the car’s toughest parts—the A-pillar. By securing the airbag’s upper and lower panels differently, it stays firmly in place, offering protection to both pedestrians and cyclists alike.

A Unique Design

Subaru claims this is the world’s first airbag specifically addressing the safety of cyclists, and there’s no reason to doubt it. However, the concept of airbags for cyclists isn’t entirely novel. In the past, safety advocates have developed wearable airbags, such as the Helite B’Safe vest, which expands upon impact. But those typically come with a hefty price tag of a few hundred dollars. The charm of Subaru’s solution lies in its vehicle integration, making safety less about individual purchases and more about universal advancements in automotive design.

Driving Experience

So, what’s the Subaru Forester like to drive? Well, if past models are any indication, it combines everyday practicality with exceptional ease. Known for its reliable all-wheel drive and balanced handling, it provides a comfortable ride that suits both city streets and country roads. Imagine a blend of stability and comfort, like your reliable old recliner but with the security of a seatbelt.

Compared to other models in its class, like the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4, the Forester might not win the trophy for raw speed or extravagance. But it excels with resilience and reliability, offering peace of mind that’s enhanced by this pioneering cyclist airbag.

Future Prospects

Right now, this advanced airbag system is something you’d have to go to Japan to experience firsthand. The potential for stateside arrival remains unclear. Requests to Subaru’s U.S. division for more details have yet to be answered. Nonetheless, this initiative demonstrates a promising direction for global vehicular safety—a nod to the future, where cars not only safeguard the drivers and passengers but everyone on the road.

In the end, Subaru’s new Forester reminds us that innovation isn’t just about making things faster or shinier; it’s about making our world safer for all. The day when such safety features are universal can’t come soon enough.