First unveiled in 2002, the primary aim of the Pre-Safe® anticipatory safety system is to make the most of the invaluable seconds that so often go to waste just before an accident happens.

The sensors at the heart of the ESP® and BAS systems detect critical driving situations such as heavy oversteer or understeer, critical steering movements, panic braking and emergency stops. The Pre-Safe® electronics process this information and initiate anticipatory measures to protect occupants and reduce the likelihood of injury. For instance the front seat belts are automatically tensioned to provide better support while, with the optional Memory Package the front passenger seat is automatically repositioned to place the occupant in the optimum safety position. To further reduce the risk of injury from flying debris, the electric side windows and optional panoramic glass sunroof also close automatically.

As you would expect, the Pre-Safe® system is fitted as standard equipment in the new C-Class Estate.