Fleet managers advised on top safety features
With winter rapidly approaching and the roads becoming more treacherous as the harsh weather takes hold, the thoughts of many fleet managers may turn towards safety and the preventative measures that can be taken.
Luckily, a number of vehicle manufacturers have continued to innovate in this field over the years and many of these are now able to boast systems that are designed not only to make the driving experience more enjoyable, but also help avoid the possibility of an accident.
One particular model that has benefited from a number of technological upgrades recently is BMW's latest 7 Series vehicle, which offers a whole selection of options for buyers that have increased safety levels in mind.
The German manufacturer has included a Night Vision system with individual pedestrian recognition that it claims is the first of its kind and noted that another exclusive addition to the model is front-side cameras that help avoid accidental bumps and knocks.
However, one feature that BMW was keen to highlight recently is its Integral Active Steering option, which has been fitted to the fifth-generation 7 Series across its one diesel and two petrol engine-powered ranges.
"A car specified with this optional equipment allows the rear wheels to turn by up to 3 degrees. At slow speeds it is highly manoeuvrable, while at a faster pace it offers enhanced composure and driving dynamics," the company explained.
Ford has also introduced an option for its line of cars recently that is designed to allow the driver the chance to have a more tailored position with adjustable pedals that can be moved to fit the specific requirements of the individual behind the wheel.
This is a facility that was warmly welcomed in an article for US website New Car Buying Guide by Sandra Kinsler. The expert pointed out that such an idea seems like something that should have been brought to the market some time ago and is an affordable option that could prove essential for some.
She explained: "This wonderful … device both raises and moves the pedals closer to the driver. That way, when a person of smaller stature uses the device not only are they able to more comfortably reach the pedals, they also are closer to them enabling the driver to sit at a more optimal distance from the steering wheel."
Other firms keen to push the envelope when it comes to new safety technology include GM, which in addition to attempting to bring new technology to its vehicles that enables them to communicate with one another, is also pioneering options like OnStar, an exclusive system that connects the car to a control centre at all times so that, in the event of an accident or breakdown, help can be sent rapidly.
Honda motors offer protection via the Occupant Position Detection System, which "stops deployment of the front passenger side airbag when it senses that a child or small-statured adult in the front passenger seat is in the airbags' path of deployment" and its Advanced Compatibility Engineering system spreads collision forces to alleviate the amount of concentrated impact when a collision occurs.
Mercedes-Benz has made standardised safety features like the Electronic Stability Programme which allows selective braking on individual wheels, while steering control technology is also a feature on all of its new cars. Nissan has announced plans to halve fatal and serious injuries in accidents involving its motors in Japan by 2015 - when compared to figures from 1995 - and Peugeot recently praised the skills of its Young Driver of the Year as part of an initiative to get people to act in a safer manner while behind the wheel.
With companies like Renault, Toyota Lexus and Volkswagen also continuing to announce new innovations, it would seem that fleet solutions professionals have a wealth of options open to them when it comes to selecting vehicles that will offer the best possible protection for drivers. However, by visiting the Euro NCAP website, they can equip themselves with all the knowledge they need to ensure the choices they make are the safest.
