This document includes a shortened version of the 1996 Westminster lecture by S Nilsson and a speech by J Bowis, Minister for Transport in London and for Road Safety. Nilsson discusses how the automotive industry can reduce road accidents and casualties, especially through better vehicle design. Volvo takes a holistic view on road safety and on environmental issues. In 1959, it was the world's first manufacturer to install the three-point safety belt, which is still considered the most effective occupant restraint yet developed. Today's traffic environment is very complicated, with mixed modes and types of road user. Volvo aims to develop cars with the same level of protection for all occupants of its cars, which have many basic safety features. Its Traffic Accident Research Team has investigated more than 25,000 accidents. An outline is given of Volvo's work on: (1) a vehicle crash recorder; (2) computer techniques; (3) safety ratings; (4) the vehicle weight factor in accidents; (5) dynamic safety; (6) safety in lorries and buses. A plea is made for international co-operation and harmonising legislation. Bowis outlines some approaches to vehicle safety and accident reduction by the UK Department of Transport (DOT) and the UK Government, including some initiatives in collaboration with the European Union (EU).
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