Volvo had already made history once in 1959. Perhaps Volvo's biggest, and most lasting influences on the modern auto industry was the invention of the 3-point safety belt, also called the lap and shoulder belt.
This was a huge improvement of safety and driver comfort, and we still use the exact same design today.
1976 was another windfall year for Volvo.
First, Volvo introduced the world to the child booster cushion. Three-point safety belts are designed for adults, leaving too-small children poorly secured. The booster cushion raises the child's sitting height, correctly positioning them to be protected.
Next, Volvo brought the world the Lambdasonde, also known as the oxygen sensing probe. This little device had the power to reduce exhaust emissions by up to 90%. Picture the long-haired environmentalists shouting for joy!
If you think city smog is bad today, imagine what it would have been without this little innovation by Volvo.
Finally, the United States Government, impassioned about making cars safer, used the Volvo 240 as their benchmark for safety in all new cars. After 1976, the government insisted vehicles sold in the US had to be at least as safe as a Volvo, leaving American manufacturers scrambling to up the ante on their safety.
Looking for a car company that is serious about safety and the environment? Volvo is determined to live up to its history, and continue pioneering safe and responsible technology. Come down to Byers Volvo and see for yourself.
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