The 1972 General Motors ESV (Experimental Safety Vehicle) was a safety concept car. The ESV had a 124-inch wheelbase, 219-inch overall length, and 56-inch height. The vehicle was built to specifications supplied by the U.S. Department of Transportation as a public service for the contract price of one dollar.
Safety features included a beefed-up front bumper and substantial door beams for side-impact collisions. Other enhancements consisted of large B-pillars that provided rollover protection and allowed for an A-pillarless windshield that increased outward visibility. Inside, huge padded structures for front- and rear-seat passengers safeguarded unbelted occupants at speeds up to 30 mph. Airbags offered additional protection at speeds above 30 mph.
Source: www.chicagoautoshow.com; www.caranddriver.com
Images: GM; www.chicagoautoshow.com
