Side airbag (SIPS). Side airbag (SIPS) - child seat/booster cushion. Head/shoulder airbag (IC). General information about WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System)

The side airbags and the WHIPS system in the Volvo S80 (2nd generation, 2013–2016) complement the protection concept in side and rear impacts. This section provides details on function, protection zones and the correct seating position for optimal effect.

Side airbag (SIPS)

In a side impact, much of the impact force is transferred by SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) to the beams, pillars, floor, roof and other parts of the vehicle body. The driver and front passenger side airbags protect the chest and hip and are an important component of SIPS.

The SIPS airbag system consists of two main parts: side airbags and sensors. The side airbag is installed in the backrest frame of the front seat.

In a sufficiently strong impact, the sensors respond and the side airbag inflates. The airbag inflates between the occupant and the door trim, so that the impact is cushioned for the occupant at the moment of the collision. When the airbag is compressed during the impact, the air escapes. The side airbag normally inflates only on the side of impact.

Driver's seat, left-hand drive.

Front passenger seat, left-hand drive.

• We recommend having repairs carried out only by an authorized Volvo workshop. Improper work on the SIPS airbag system may cause malfunctions resulting in serious injury.
• Do not place objects in the area between the outer edge of the seat and the door trim, as the side airbag may act on this area.
• We recommend using only seat covers approved by Volvo. Other seat covers may impair the function of the side airbags.
• The side airbag is a supplement to the seat belt. The seat belt must always be worn.

Related information

• Driver airbag
• Front passenger airbag
• Side airbag (SIPS) - child seat/booster cushion
• Head/shoulder airbag (IC)

Side airbag (SIPS) - child seat/booster cushion

The side airbag has no negative effect on the protective properties of the child seat or booster cushion.

A child seat/booster cushion may be installed on the front seat if the vehicle is not equipped with an active front passenger airbag.

Related information

• Front passenger airbag
• General information about child safety

Head/shoulder airbag (IC)

The head/shoulder airbag prevents the head of the driver or front passenger from striking the inside of the vehicle in the event of a collision.

The head/shoulder airbag (inflatable curtain) is part of the SIPS system and the airbag system. It is mounted on both outer sides of the headliner and helps protect the driver and front passenger, as well as passengers in the outer rear seats. In a sufficiently strong impact, the sensors respond and the head/shoulder airbag inflates.

Do not hang or attach heavy objects to the grab handles on the roof.

The hook is intended only for hanging light jackets (not heavy objects such as umbrellas).

Do not screw or mount any objects to the roof lining, pillar trim or side trim of the vehicle. Otherwise, the intended protective effect may be lost. Volvo recommends mounting only genuine Volvo parts approved for installation in these areas.

Do not load the vehicle higher than 50 mm below the upper edge of the door windows. Otherwise, the protective effect of the head/shoulder airbag, which is located behind the vehicle roof lining, may be lost.

The head/shoulder airbag supplements the seat belt. Always wear your seat belt.

Related information

- General information about seat belts

General information about WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System)

WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) protects against injuries known as whiplash. The system consists of energy-absorbing seatbacks and head restraints specially developed for the system on the front seats.

The WHIPS system is activated in a rear impact. The impact angle, speed and characteristics of the striking vehicle are decisive.

WHIPS supplements the seat belt.

Always wear your seat belt.

Seat characteristics

When WHIPS is activated, the front seatbacks fold back to change the seating position of the driver and front passenger. This reduces the risk of whiplash.

Never make changes or repairs to the seat or WHIPS yourself.

Volvo recommends that you contact a Volvo dealer.

Related information

• WHIPS - Child seat
• WHIPS - Seating position
• General information on seat belts

The Volvo S80 (2nd generation, model years 2013–2016) offers a comprehensive safety network for side and rear collisions with SIPS, head/shoulder airbag and WHIPS. These systems work unobtrusively in the background to minimize the risk of injury in an accident.

The combination of a robust structure and intelligent protection technology makes the S80 one of the safest sedans in its class. Driver and passengers benefit from this well-considered design on every journey.

FAQ

How does the head/shoulder airbag protect?
In a side impact, it prevents the head from striking the vehicle interior, helping to protect against serious injury.

What is special about WHIPS?
WHIPS helps protect against whiplash in rear collisions through special head restraints and seat construction.