…Advises Motorists on Child Safety Precautions
Hyundai has concluded plans to voluntarily make its Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) door-logic system standard on most of its new vehicles by 2022.
It recently added standard ROA to the 2020 Sonata and Sonata Hybrid and will add the system to the all-new 2021 Elantra, by the end of the year.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the auto maker said it would also make its optional Ultrasonic Rear Occupant Alert, or a similar sensor-based system, available on more of its models in the future.
“It is available today in the popular Palisade and Santa Fe SUVs, vehicles most driven by families with young children,” it stated, adding, “NHTSA and Hyundai are now calling on the public via social media to help prevent children from dying in hot cars this summer.”
Four Hyundai models are available today with door-logic ROA as standard equipment: the 2020 Santa Fe, Palisade, Sonata and Sonata Hybrid. Both of the SUVs have the Ultrasonic ROA available as an option. The 2019 Santa Fe also has the Ultrasonic ROA feature available as an option.
Meanwhile Hyundai advised motorist to check their rear seats, when exiting a vehicle, a simple act that can help prevent child deaths from heatstroke in vehicles.
“It only takes a second to check the back seat and save a child’s life on a hot summer day,” said Brian Latouf, chief safety officer, Hyundai Motor North America. “We have great systems to help drivers remember to do just that, but there are lots of methods that work. All of them can save a life.”
Moreover, Hyundai counseled motorists with child on board to place a briefcase, purse, or cell phone next to the child’s car seat so as to always check the back seat before leaving the car.
“On the alternative,” it stated further, “keep a stuffed animal or another memento in your child’s car seat when it’s empty. Move it to the front seat as a visual reminder when your child is in the back seat.
“Set a rule for your child care provider; have them call you if your child doesn’t arrive as scheduled.”
