Airbags
System designed to maximise the safety of the occupants (with the exception of the rear centre passenger) in the event of violent collisions. It supplements the action of the force-limiting seat belts (with the exception of the rear centre passenger).
If a collision occurs, the electronic detectors record and analyse the front and side impacts sustained in the impact detection zones:
- in the case of a serious impact, the airbags are deployed instantly and protect
the occupants of the vehicle (with the exception of the rear centre passenger);
immediately after the impact, the airbags deflate rapidly so that they do not hinder
visibility or the exit of the occupants,
- in the case of a minor or rear impact or in certain roll-over conditions, the
airbags will not be deployed; the seat belt alone is sufficient to provide optimum
protection in these situations.
The airbags do not operate when the ignition is switched off.
This equipment will only deploy once. If a second impact occurs (during the same or a subsequent accident), the airbag will not be deployed again.
Impact detection zones
A. Front impact zone.
B. Side impact zone.
Deployment of the airbag(s) is accompanied by a slight emission of harmless smoke and a noise, due to the activation of the pyrotechnic cartridge incorporated in the system.
This smoke is not harmful, but sensitive individuals may experience slight irritation.
The noise of the detonation may result in a slight loss of hearing for a short time.
See also:
Braking assistance systems
Group of supplementary systems which help you to obtain optimum braking in complete
safety in emergency situations:
- anti-lock braking system (ABS),
- electronic brake force distribution (EBFD) ...
Instrument panels
On switching on, the dial needles go to the extent of their travel then return
to 0.
A. With the ignition on, the needle should indicate the fuel remaining.
B. With the engine running, the assoc ...