Trump admin. unveils first ‘advanced female crash test dummies’ after 45 yrs., incorporating biological differences between male and female anatomy
The U.S. Department of Transportation has introduced the THOR-05F, the first advanced female crash test dummy designed to address women's higher injury rates in car accidents. This development, announced by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, aims to save an estimated 1,300 lives annually by incorporating biological differences that influence crash outcomes. The dummy features enhanced sensors and anatomical accuracy, marking a significant shift from the previous Hybrid III model used for 45 years. This initiative aligns with the Trump administration's commitment to biological accuracy and safety for women. The NHTSA plans to adopt the THOR-05F into federal safety standards soon.
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The THOR-05F dummy includes 150 sensors to measure risks more accurately, addressing higher injury rates for women in crashes, particularly in the legs and spine.
Secretary Duffy emphasized that the dummy's design reflects the administration's stance on recognizing two biological sexes, which aligns with an Executive Order signed by Trump on his first day back in office.
Chris O’Connor, CEO of Humanetics, noted that female drivers face an 80% higher risk of leg injuries compared to male drivers, highlighting the necessity of this new design.
The previous Hybrid III dummy was criticized for not accurately reflecting the anatomical differences between men and women, which has been a significant issue for decades in crash testing.
A 2019 study indicated that women are 73% more likely to suffer serious injuries in head-on collisions, reinforcing the need for the new female-specific crash test dummy.
The NHTSA will soon release five technical documents detailing the specifications of the THOR-05F, facilitating its formal adoption into federal motor vehicle safety regulations.
Duffy and National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator Jonathan Morrison acknowledged the lengthy development process, emphasizing the importance of accuracy in safety testing.