Air Bag: Description and Operation

6963 Side Airbags

The new 911 Carrera/S (997) uses the new generation of the standard Porsche Side Impact Protection System (POSIP). It now comprises two airbags per side: A thorax airbag and a head airbag. A specially adapted thorax airbag is integrated in both the driver's and passenger's seat to provide optimum protection for the upper body in a side impact. In the event of a crash the airbag, which has a volume of approx. 8 liters, is inflated by a gas generator.

In addition to the thorax airbags, there is also a separate head airbag in each door. With a volume of approx. 8 liters, this airbag offers effective head protection. In the event of a side impact it unfolds from the upper section of the door-trim panel in the shape of a flat cushion. Like the thorax airbag, the head airbag is also inflated using a hybrid generator.

The sensors for detecting a side impact and thus for activating the side airbags are located in the airbag control unit on the center tunnel and in the area of the side sills.