DOT finalizes THOR‑5F specs, signals use in NHTSA 5‑star ratings
The Transportation Department has finalized specifications for the THOR‑5F, a more realistic female crash‑test dummy, and said it will consider using the model in NHTSA’s five‑star crash‑test ratings once a final rule is adopted. The decision drew bipartisan support from Sens. Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth, though industry experts have warned the new dummy may not change injury‑risk profiles or how seat belts and airbags are evaluated.
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📌 Key Facts
- The Department of Transportation endorsed the THOR‑5F crash test dummy and said it will consider using the THOR‑5F in the NHTSA five‑star crash‑test ratings once a final rule is adopted.
- The THOR‑5F is a new crash test dummy developed to more closely resemble women.
- Senators Deb Fischer (R) and Tammy Duckworth (D) welcomed the announcement; Fischer promoted her She Drives Act, which would require advanced testing devices including a female dummy.
- Associated Press reporting cited by NPR notes industry skepticism that the THOR‑5F will meaningfully change injury‑risk profiles or alter evaluations of seat belts and airbags.
📰 Sources (2)
Transportation Department endorses crash test dummy that more closely resembles women
New information:
- DOT said it will consider using the THOR‑5F in the government’s NHTSA five‑star crash test ratings once a final rule is adopted.
- Bipartisan support: Sens. Deb Fischer and Tammy Duckworth welcomed the announcement; Fischer promoted her She Drives Act to require advanced devices including a female dummy.
- AP context notes industry skepticism that the new model could change injury‑risk profiles and affect evaluations of seat belts/airbags.