Ford’s Inflatable Bumper Fixes The Big Problem With Trucks And SUVs

This is not the first such idea that Ford has come up with. Just two months ago, CarBuzz discovered a similar patent for a shapeshifting bumper that also aims to reduce pedestrian injury without compromising off-road ability. Both ideas will add significant complexity and cost to vehicles, but that was the case with the lifesaving airbags found in the cabin, too.

The most obvious solution is simply to improve the basic design and shape of the pickup/SUV, but the modern consumer always wants their new truck to be bigger than their old one, making ever-larger wall-faced fascias impossible to escape.

This obsession with more size and space is having a big impact on motorists and pedestrians alike, but without changes at the legislative level, cars of all shapes will only grow, so Ford must find a way to remain competitive with its rivals while still upholding its commitment to safety. Got a better idea? Let’s hear it.