2007 Volvo S80 Owner's Manual - Page 21

26 01 Safety Safety in the passenger compartment Whiplash Protection System - WHIPS Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) - front seats only The WHIPS system consists of specially designed hinges and brackets on the front seat backrests designed to help absorb some of the energy generated in a collision from the rear (when the vehicle is rear-ended). In the event of a collision of this type, the hinges and brackets of the front seat backrests are designed to change position slightly to allow the backrest/head restraint to help support the occupant's head before moving slightly rearward. This movement helps absorb some of the forces that could result in whiplash. WARNING The WHIPS system is designed to supplement the other safety systems in your vehicle. For this system to function properly, the three-point seat belt must be worn. Please be aware that no system can prevent all possible injuries that may occur in an accident. The WHIPS system is designed to function in certain collisions from the rear, depending on the crash severity, angle and speed. WARNING Occupants in the front seats must never sit out of position. The occupant's back must be as upright as comfort allows and be against the seat back with the seat belt properly fastened.