By James Gent
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has released the first official findings from a brand-new form of crash testing, one that could significantly reduce the number of whiplash injuries recorded annually in the United States. Those among you that own a Toyota RAV4 can heave a sigh of relief, but those of you with a Ford Bronco Sport or Hyundai Tucson on the driveway may want to read on.
New “Severe” Test Simulates Rear-End Collisions At Multiple Speeds
Like the head restraint evaluation it replaces, the IIHS’ new test determines the impact a rear-end collision can have on occupants in the driver’s seat. To test this, a midsize male dummy, with an articulating rather than rigid spine, is belted into a car seat loaned by the manufacturer being evaluated. The seat itself is then bolted to a sled on rails, and a rear-impact collision is simulated at 20 mph.
As was previously the case, the test measures head contact time – i.e. how long it takes for the head restraint to reach the back of the dummy’s skull – and the forces/speeds exerted on the upper spine, specifically the T1 vertebrae. The old test, however, was actually discontinued in 2022 when it was discovered that almost every seat being evaluated was receiving a ‘Good’ rating. Despite this, the number of whiplash cases being reported at accident sites were actually on the rise in North America.
The IIHS has since introduced a more rigid test, conducted with “greater severity,” to measure more metrics. While this new test will not eliminate false whiplash claims by defendants hoping for a quick pay-day, it is hoped the results will encourage automakers to continue developing their car seats to further improve cabin safety.
Alongside head contact time, for example, the new test more thoroughly evaluates head and spine support, and how much energy the seat absorbs under impact. Two different speeds are now being used as standard – 20 mph and 30 mph – given the significant differences 10-plus mph can make on the human body. The IIHS even measures how far the pelvis will move when impacted at 30 mph.
Moreover, the US organization also recommends that drivers, just as you would adjust your seatbelt before setting off, should ensure the headrest helps hold your neck in a natural upright position. Also, don’t put your feet on the dashboard. It may not be illegal, but it’s monumentally stupid.
Four Vehicles Get “Poor” Rating
IIHS used 36 late-model vehicles to fine-tune the new test, though the specific models weren't revealed. With a baseline established, 18 small SUVs were chosen for the first official round of testing, all being 2025 models save for the 2024 Honda CR-V.
Interestingly, just four models – the Audi Q3, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Subaru Forester, and the Toyota RAV4 – passed the test with a top-tier ‘Good’ rating. Nine models received a mild slap on the wrist but were nevertheless ‘Acceptable.’ Two further vehicles – the BMW X1 and the Nissan Rogue – got a stern telling off, as their results were deemed ‘Marginal.’
Source: IIHS
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This article originally appeared on CarBuzz and is republished here with permission.
