Michigan remains a viable part of America’s economic engine. The sights of automobiles rolling off assembly lines and Motown music filling the airwaves still conjure up fanciful images of The Motor City — Detroit’s handle since Henry Ford built his first assembly line more than a century ago.
Innovation, creation, and determination still drive those who have committed themselves to the region. There is a palpable grit and thriving motivation to maintain the area’s reputation as the epicenter for putting the country on wheels, whether powered by gasoline or electricity. 
Not only is the state home of the “Big Three” automakers, but it’s the global landing point for those interested in research and development for all things surrounding the future car. The scores of suppliers located along a stretch of Interstate 75 north of Detroit proves that our society still needs its cars, trucks, and SUVs — with future versions to also include hybrid, electric, and autonomous vehicles. Engineers, designers, creative-types, exhibitors, and others have the opportunity to shape and be part of the next hottest vehicle on the road.
Behind the most successful nameplates are smaller yet agile companies that the OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) rely on to build their brands and boost sales. With new occupant protective equipment becoming standard, and customers growing more aware of numerous distractions from cell phones and careless drivers, safety technology has become sexy again. This has been evident at the massive Detroit Auto Show, as well as other shows throughout the country, during the past five years.
Swedish automotive safety systems supplier Autoliv is a company that fits this future vision, with plenty of innovative and forward-thinking technology while serving today’s driver. Their airbags, seatbelts, and steering wheels are made in 27 countries and are aimed at preventing injury – or worse – in a vehicle.
According to United Nations data, an estimated 1.35 million people are killed every year in road crashes and up to 50 million more are injured. This costs the global economy $1.85 trillion. In the United States, nearly 39,000 people were killed last year and 4.4 million more were injured, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Influenced and inspired by the Swedish “Vision Zero” approach to strive towards zero accidents and zero deaths, Autoliv also joined Together for Safer Roads (TSR), a coalition of leading private sector companies dedicated to preventing traffic crashes, injuries, and deaths on roadways around the world.
Among other things, TSR addresses strategic road safety challenges in select locations by working with local governments, while also advancing innovative solutions to accelerate the growth and social impact of road safety tech.
“We can encourage each other to influence better driving habits in order to create a safer society in a positive and sustainable way with the goal of saving more lives,” said Dr. Cecilia Sunnevång, Autoliv Vice President of Research.
Next time you look at the map of the U.S. and see the state of Michigan, perhaps that mitten-shaped hand will be a reminder to reach up and grab a seat belt, one likely made by Autoliv. That simple decision could save a life, perhaps even your own.
