Improving Crash Testing at the IIHS | MotorWeek FYI
The ongoing challenge of highway safety in the U.S. remains a pressing issue: over 39,000 people lost their lives in crashes last year, a stark reminder that despite advances in automotive safety, the roadways can still be perilous. In this episode of MotorWeek FYI, Stephanie Hart delves into the latest efforts by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to enhance crash testing protocols in hopes of curbing these alarming statistics.
The IIHS has been at the forefront of vehicle safety testing for over 30 years and is now facing a unique conundrum. While vehicles have continuously improved—with the integration of technologies like automatic emergency braking and enhanced crash avoidance features—new factors, including larger, heavier vehicles and risky driving behaviors, are contributing to an increase in fatalities. This complex landscape has prompted IIHS to set an ambitious goal: reducing highway fatalities by 30% by 2030.
In this episode, viewers will witness the rigorous crash tests of models like the Volvo EX90, where the focus is not only on vehicle performance but also on protecting vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. IIHS’s new initiatives aim to expand testing to include diverse scenarios, ensuring the latest safety technologies are effective in real-world conditions.
As the vehicle fleet ages—averaging around 12 years on the road—implementing short-term solutions alongside long-term technological advancements becomes essential. This includes smarter roadway designs and the strategic deployment of traffic safety cameras.
Join us as we explore IIHS’s commitment to tackling road safety from all angles, and discover how their work is poised to save lives through improved crash testing and ratings. Watch the full episode exclusively on MotorWeek, and stay updated on automotive safety advancements that matter to you.
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Video “Improving Crash Testing at the IIHS | MotorWeek FYI” was uploaded on 10/18/2025 to Youtube Channel MotorWeek