This Mercedes-Benz Has Saved Countless Lives Over The Last Fifty Years

Mercedes-Benz’s admirable obsession has blessed the world with plenty of life-saving innovations. Across several generations, the automotive crystal ball known as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has ushered in technology such as ESP and radar-guided cruise control – things we now take for granted in modern mainstream vehicles.

For many years, the German automaker has been experimenting with passenger protection through a series of Experimental Safety Vehicles, the oldest of which is turning 50 this year. To celebrate this milestone and commitment to safety, the brand has shed some light on the Mercedes-Benz ESF 13.

First seen at the Transpo 72 trade fair in 1972, the ESF stunned showgoers with its futuristic safety solutions. The concept introduced the world to ABS brakes, airbags for all occupants, and even parallel wipers for the rear window. It may sound positively outdated now but, five decades ago, it was cutting-edge.

Despite the W116-inspired styling, ESF 13 was based on a W114 250 (a precursor to the E-Class) and also used parts from the V8-powered 350 SL. This mash-up of Stuttgart’s finest showcased some left-field innovations; pedestrians would benefit from the foam exterior components while occupants were treated to three-point seatbelts with force limiters on the front seats.

This specific feature demonstrates how ahead of the curve Mercedes-Benz was. Once the doors were shut, the belts would fasten automatically. Even occupants in the rear benefitted from airbags and the same modern safety belt setup. The engine was also positioned as far back as possible to allow for a substantial crumple zone.

A few years later, technology seen on the ESF 13 would make its way into the W116 S-Class (the first car in the world with electronic four-wheel ABS) while a driver’s side airbag with belt tensioners would debut on the W126 S-Class.

Mercedes-Benz continues to be a leader in the fields of tech and safety. Just recently, the W223 S-Class and the EQS were made available with Level 3 self-driving in Germany. In specific conditions, owners can hand over driving responsibilities to the big Benzes on stretches of motorway or in traffic, for example. Mercedes has said it hopes to bring this feature over to Nevada and California.

Other life-saving inventions from the Three-pointed star include Pre-Safe, an intelligent system that prepares the myriad safety systems to respond to an emergency or crash. Sensors can detect an impending accident and prepare the car by closing the windows and sunroof, as well as tightening the seat belts in anticipation. A common feature now, but unheard of in 2002. This rate of progress shows no signs of slowing down; we cannot wait to see what comes out of Stuttgart next.