Volkswagen Passive Occupant Protection System Progress Report - 1979

This paper describes the most recent test results and field experience of the VW Passive Restraint System (VWRA). Laboratory test results indicate that the addition of a lap belt to the VWRA does not improve the system's performance in respect to anthrophomorphic test data. Furthermore, there was no detectable difference in side impact when the VWRA was compared with the active lap shoulder belt system. Finally, an update of accidents involving the VWRA are presented, demonstrating the system's effectiveness in actual use.