Mercedes-Benz Pre-Safe: a safety step
Passenger safety is a top priority for car manufacturers, who are always looking to improve it. An example of this is Mercedes’ Pre-Safe system. But what is the “Pre-Safe” system and how does it ensure your safety on the road?
Discover the advanced technology behind the revolutionary safety device and learn how it can give you peace of mind behind the wheel.
Which Mercedes models are equipped with the Pre-Safe system?
The Pre-Safe system is available as standard or as an option on a range of luxury Mercedes vehicles, including sedans, roadsters and SUVs.
The following models offer the Pre-Safe system: Class A, Class C, Class E, Class S, CLA, CLS, GLA, GLC, GLE, GLS, SLC and Class SL.
Check with the car dealer to see if the Mercedes you are considering buying is equipped with the Pre-Safe system. You can also ask about the “Automatic valet system”. If you are interested, you can read our article on Bosch-Mercedes automatic valet system for more information.
Now, let’s dive into the details of Pre-Safe’s features.
Understanding the functionality of Mercedes Pre-Safe
Pre-Safe is a feature that uses a network of sensors to detect potential crash situations. When it detects irregularities such as swerves or skids, it immediately responds with a series of measures aimed at strengthening passenger protection. These automatic reactions work together to reduce and prevent further damage from an accident. So, let’s learn more about Pre-Safe.
If you’re curious, there are other safety technologies for automated vehicles.
Preventive braking
The Pre-Safe Brake function uses radar sensors to detect stopping or slowing vehicles ahead and will automatically apply up to 40% braking power if an impending collision is detected.
The driver is alerted and the Pre-Safe system is activated. If the driver brakes, maximum brake pressure is applied. If the driver does not react, the system can fully brake on its own to reduce the intensity of the collision.
This system is also known as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).
Pre-Safe Plus
The Pre-Safe Plus function helps prevent or reduce the severity of rear-end collisions. The car’s rear radar detects potential collisions. If a collision is imminent, the system will flash the rear hazard warning lights. It warns the driver behind to slow down or stop. The system also activates the reversible belt tensioners. It keeps the occupants in place.
The system also places the seatbacks in an upright position. It protects the occupants in the event of a collision. If the vehicle is stationary, the system increases the braking force. Thus, the car is held as tightly as possible to avoid or minimize a secondary collision with the vehicle in front.
Pre-Safe Impulse Side
Pre-Safe Impulse Side is a collision avoidance system that uses radar to detect an impending impact. It works by enlarging an air chamber in the seat, pushing the front passenger towards the center of the vehicle and increasing the distance between them and the door. This reduces the force of the impact and the severity of the injuries.
The system uses radar data from the front and sides of the vehicle to detect a potential collision and act quickly and efficiently, providing an additional layer of protection for occupants.
Sound Pre-Safe
Pre-Safe Sound protects vehicle occupants against hearing damage in the event of a collision. When the system detects that a collision is imminent, it activates the vehicle’s sound system and plays an 80-decibel “pink noise”.
This noise triggers the stapedius reflex, which causes the stapedius muscle to contract, breaking the connection between the eardrum and the inner ear for a fraction of a second. This helps reduce the damage that loud noises from an accident can cause to your hearing.
Pink noise is usually a viable option for those who want to try it. However, recognized by Dr. Michelle Drerup of the Cleveland Clinic that people with hearing loss or sound sensitivity may find pink noise irritating.
If you want to get a hands-on understanding of pink noise, watch the video below.
Drive safely and responsibly
Mercedes Pre-Safe is a revolutionary safety system that detects potential accident situations and automatically responds by taking action to improve passenger protection. Each of the safety features – Pre-Safe Brake, Pre-Safe Plus, Pre-Safe Impulse Side and Pre-Safe Sound – reduces the risk of injury or death in the event of a collision.
Overall, the Pre-Safe system provides an additional layer of protection for occupants and provides peace of mind behind the wheel. However, it is important to remember that the ultimate responsibility for road safety rests with the driver. Driving in a safe and responsible manner is always important.
