The 2026 update of the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) requires advanced seat belt reminders in vehicles as part of its rating. To fully ensure safety, vehicles must be equipped with the function to instantly detect seat belt misuses such as dummy buckles or lap-only usage with the diagonal belt behind the back of the driver or passenger. To align with the update, FENC’s industrial fiber production team joined forces with the R&D Center and international seat belt manufacturer Autoliv. The partnership gave birth to a high-tenacity seat belt fiber with the near-infrared (NIR) optical identification capability, which is an innovative solution to the demand for active safety in the next-generation vehicles.

An NIR-absorbing material with high performance and stability is added during the spinning process, giving the yarn built-in optical properties. Once woven into specific patterns as part of the seat belt webbing with regular yarns, the NIR identification system is able to determine with precision whether the seat belt is placed correctly across the wearer’s chest. While allowing instant misuse identification, this design also enhances active safety during the drive when integrated with the built-in warning system inside the vehicle.

This innovation boasts not merely NIR optical identification, but all the critical physical properties required for a safety seat belt, meeting current safety requirements after passing rigorous testing for tensile strength and resistance to heat, moisture, light and abrasion. In the past, the detection of proper seat belt placement was limited to weight sensors or buckle switches. The incorporation of NIR optical identification yarn protects the safety of drivers and passengers by ensuring proper seat belt placement.

Patent applications have been filed in Taiwan and mainland China for this innovation, which is considered a key in helping automakers boost their Euro NCAP safety ratings. By introducing advanced materials technologies into automotive safety, FENC is safeguarding the road users, and through its innovative R&D, the Company is aligning with regulatory trends and protecting public safety.