Volvo Cars continues to set the benchmark for automotive safety with its world-first multi-adaptive safety belt, which has been recognised as one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025. The accolade highlights 300 innovations worldwide that are transforming lives, and marks the second consecutive year Volvo Cars has been honoured for its groundbreaking safety technology.
The multi-adaptive safety belt, set to debut in the fully electric Volvo EX60 SUV, takes occupant protection to a new level by adapting in real time to both traffic conditions and the unique characteristics of the driver and passengers.
“WE are proud to be recognised by TIME as a leader in automotive safety,” says Åsa Haglund, head of Volvo Cars Safety Centre. “With the multi-adaptive safety belt in the upcoming EX60, we’re leveraging real-time data to adapt to the situation and the person wearing it – providing smarter, personalised protection that can help reduce injury.”
Using data from the car’s advanced interior and exterior sensors, the system customises protection based on each occupant’s height, weight, body shape, and seating position. In a severe collision, a larger occupant may receive a higher belt load to reduce the risk of head injury, while a smaller occupant in a milder impact will receive a lower belt load to minimise rib fractures.
The technology is designed to evolve through over-the-air software updates, allowing Volvo Cars to refine its understanding of occupants and optimise responses to emerging driving scenarios.
This innovation reinforces Volvo Cars’ commitment to leading the industry in safety, combining real-world data insights with cutting-edge technology to better protect drivers and passengers. Last year, Volvo’s Driver Understanding System – featured in the EX90 and ES90 – was also named one of TIME’s Best Inventions. The system uses real-time sensing technology to detect when a driver is tired, distracted, or impaired, enabling the car to intervene when necessary.
The multi-adaptive safety belt will make its global debut on 21 January 2026, when Volvo Cars reveals the fully electric EX60 SUV in a livestreamed event from Stockholm, Sweden.
About TIME’s Best Inventions
TIME’s annual Best Inventions list recognises innovations that demonstrate originality, ambition, efficacy, and societal impact. Submissions are sourced from TIME editors, correspondents, and an online application process, with a focus on emerging fields such as healthcare, AI, and green energy.
For the full list of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025, visit TIME.com.
