New Lexus IS 250 Introduces World’s First Dual-Chamber Airbag
Airbags have been a leading safety feature of every Lexus model launched since the original LS400 made its debut in 1989. Technology, engineering and design have been constantly refined since then to deliver ever more efficient and effective operation, with the new Lexus IS 250 making the latest major advance in occupant protection with the world’s first dual-chamber passenger airbag.
Unlike conventional airbags, which inflate in a single unit, the new dual-chamber version has twin vertical sections, creating a central depression that effectively cradles the face while dispersing the physical impact of the inflated bag across other parts of the head, shoulders and upper body.
The airbag is based on the Lexus Omni-Support concept and presents less risk of injury to the front seat passenger, without compromising the level of protection against primary impact forces.
Not only are all versions of the new Lexus IS 250 equipped with the dual-chamber passenger airbag, they are also the first premium D segment models to feature driver and front passenger knee airbags. Further protection is provided by seat-mounted Thorax-Abdomen-Pelvis (TAP) side airbags, with greater capacity to provide wider protection across the body.
Together with curtain shield airbags which run the length of each side of the vehicle cabin to protect both front and outer rear seat occupants, the IS carries a complement of eight airbags as standard on all models.
The Lexus IS 250 goes on sale in the UK on 19 November, priced from £22,400 on the road.
ENDS
