In keeping with their reputation for safety and innovation, Volvo has produced a world-first car that will automatically brake to avoid pedestrians. The new vehicle, which was just recently unveiled in Sydney, has the capacity to sense pedestrians, warn the driver with alarms, and pending no response, will apply the brakes – all in a split second.

The S60 sedan employs an onboard system of cameras and a clever computer, which constantly observes the road (up to 35km/hr), searching for (and trying to avoid) pedestrians. The innovative technology is another step forward for the brand already associated with impeccable safety, as it significantly minimizes serious injury to pedestrians.

According to Volvo boss, Alan Desselss, “This technology has not been designed to take control away from the driver but merely acts as a back-up system which, unlike a human, can never be distracted.”

The advanced system extends on current Volvo technology employed to help avoid crashing into the backs of other vehicles. The brand hopes that by 2020, no individual will be killed or seriously injured in or by, a Volvo.

According to various pedestrian safety experts, in many vehicle-pedestrian collisions, the driver has failed to brake or not had time to brake. Travel speed plays a huge part in the seriousness of such collisions. However, the incorporation of in-vehicle technologies such as Volvo’s new system can activate braking earlier and shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance, subsequently reducing injury risk and lowering the impact.

Official pricing has not been announced, however it has been reported that the asking price will sit around $50,000. The innovative S60 will be on show at next month’s AIMS in Sydney, and will be available for sale here in December.