Volvo Cars achieves equal safety protection for men and women

Research conducted by the Volvo Cars Safety Centre indicates that Volvo vehicles have provided equal protection for men and women since the 1970s. The study, which analyzed data from over 50,000 real-world crashes involving more than 80,000 occupants, challenges the industry assumption that cars are inherently less safe for women due to differences in anatomy.

By comparing vehicle models from 1970–1979 with those from 2010–2019, the research found that overall driver injury risk decreased by 79 percent. For women, the reduction reached 88 percent, effectively bringing their injury risk to the same level as men.

Volvo achieved these results by utilizing real-world crash data rather than relying solely on standard laboratory testing, which historically focused on average male anatomy. This data-driven approach allowed for the design of safety systems that account for various body types, including women and children. Additionally, the research noted significant advancements in rear-seat occupant protection, with safety levels comparable to or exceeding those of front-seat occupants.