Pedestrian protection system

In the event of a frontal collision with a pedestrian, your car is equipped with a system that can mitigate the effects of the impact.

The car's pedestrian protection system is designed to minimise the impact of a collision with a pedestrian. This can help to protect both the pedestrian and the people inside the car. If the system is triggered during a collision, the car responds in three specific ways, in addition to the normal collision behaviour:

  • The bonnet raises upwards and moves back towards the windscreen. The purpose of this response is to cushion the impact of the pedestrian while, at the same time, shielding the windscreen.
  • An automatic alarm is sent via an emergency call centre.
  • A symbol appears in the driver display to indicate the system has been triggered.
PPS symbol
Pedestrian protection system

If the system has been triggered, follow the recommendations given.

 Note

The pedestrian protection system relies on sensors to detect certain types of collisions. The sensors are active at a speed of approx. 25-50 km/h (15-30 mph) but there are many conditions and factors that determine whether or not the pedestrian protection system will trigger. There may be objects in the car's surrounding environment that the sensors detect in a similar way to a pedestrian. It is possible that the system will activate in the event of a collision with such an object.

 Important

Driver responsibility

The pedestrian protection system is a supplement to safe driving practices. It does not reduce or replace the need for the driver to stay attentive and focused on driving safely. Drive the car with the same attention to safety as required by a car without the ability to mitigate collisions.

 Warning

Damaged front

Contact an authorised Volvo workshop if the front of the car has been damaged in any way. This is to ensure the damage hasn't affected any of the car's safety systems, including the pedestrian protection system.

Car modifications

Do not make modifications or additions to the front of the car. Modifications to the car risk adversely affecting the safety systems and could lead to serious injury and damage to the car. Carefully read the section about car modifications and contact Volvo if you are considering modifying your car.