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2011 Automotive News PACE Awards finalists

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Here are profiles of finalists and winners for the annual Automotive News PACE Awards, which honor important new products and processes that have found customers. The awards were handed out Monday, April 11.

WINNER: Soft belt protects rear passengers

Key Safety Systems Inc.
What: Inflatabelt seat belt for rear passengers
Innovation: The belt combines airbag and seat belt technology. The belt inflates, spreading the load over a wider and more cushioning surface than a standard, two-inch seat belt.
First customer: 2011 Ford Explorer, fall 2010
From the judges’ citation: Key Safety Systems combines the lifesaving features of airbags and seatbelts into a single integrated system for rear seat passengers. Launched on the 2011 Ford Explorer. The gas filled tubular cushion applies restraint forces to a larger area of the occupant’s body to more gently restrain the occupant.

New package for EVs' high temps
New package for EVs' high temps
Small and powerful engine
Small and powerful engine
WINNER: Hidden panels add value
WINNER: Hidden panels add value
WINNER: A smoother hybrid
WINNER: A smoother hybrid
Optimizing exhaust and intake strokes
Optimizing exhaust and intake strokes
Changing culture with new processes
Changing culture with new processes
Design improves air conditioner
Design improves air conditioner
Modular seats are highly recyclable
Modular seats are highly recyclable
Piston sealing saves time, cost
Piston sealing saves time, cost
WINNER: Faster, tighter turbo waste gate
WINNER: Faster, tighter turbo waste gate
Electric wipers cut weight, boost style
Electric wipers cut weight, boost style
Cool air during stops
Cool air during stops
Global charger for electric vehicles
Global charger for electric vehicles
WINNER: Simpler, faster sound damping
WINNER: Simpler, faster sound damping
Seats for global customers
Seats for global customers
Brushless fuel pumps extend life
Brushless fuel pumps extend life
Rear seat safety for big and small passengers
Rear seat safety for big and small passengers
WINNER: Precise -- and quiet -- fuel injection
WINNER: Precise -- and quiet -- fuel injection
Vibrating pedal warns driver of crash danger
Vibrating pedal warns driver of crash danger
Polymer-coated bearings last longer
Polymer-coated bearings last longer
WINNER: Airbags for stylish steering wheels
WINNER: Airbags for stylish steering wheels
WINNER: LED lens shine
WINNER: LED lens shine
Multipurpose coat protects parts
Multipurpose coat protects parts
Cool air without cold drafts
Cool air without cold drafts
24/7 shopping for Ford parts
24/7 shopping for Ford parts
WINNER: Saving oil, with less friction
WINNER: Saving oil, with less friction
New seal works like rubber and plastic
New seal works like rubber and plastic
Advanced wipers cut mass
Advanced wipers cut mass
WINNER: Piston coating boosts fuel economy
WINNER: Piston coating boosts fuel economy
WINNER: Compact turbocharger delivers more
WINNER: Compact turbocharger delivers more
WINNER: Soft belt protects rear passengers
WINNER: Soft belt protects rear passengers
WINNER: Lighter balance shaft saves fuel
WINNER: Lighter balance shaft saves fuel
Special Report
Dealer O.C. Welch's big-truck turnaround

Dealer O.C. Welch's big-truck turnaround

After Mercury's demise, South Carolina Ford-Lincoln dealer O.C. Welch had to find a way to replace lost revenue. He decided to load up on Super Duty pickups – and sell them online. Mon., June 17
» Watch the Video
     
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