The Next Generation of Crash Test Dummies Has Arrived [VIDEO]

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General Motors is taking the world of crash-test dummies to the next level. The automaker is working on a new generation of the devices designed specifically for use in the back seat of vehicles.

The latest generation of the dummies comes from a group of engineers at Chalmers University in Gothenburg, Sweden. The dummies have 24 simulated vertebrae –- just like humans -– so they can accurately replicate what might happen to the human body in a crash.

Called BioRID, the dummies need to deliver repeatable, reproducible test results before they can be accepted for use, which is where GM comes in.

One test engineer, Barbara Bunn, developed and conducted a series of tests with the BioRID to determine its ability to produce consistent measurements.

"The test matrix Barb developed will be helpful to the industry for determining BioRID's future, and demonstrates GM's commitment to advancing crash-test dummy technology and procedures for evaluating vehicle safety," says Gay Kent, GM's general director of Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness.

Bunn collaborated on the project with engineers from Chrysler, Ford and Humanetics Innovative Systems, which manufactures the BioRID.

"The execution of the BioRID test matrix couldn't have been done without a strong spirit of collaboration," Bunn said. "Ultimately, every automaker wants to improve the crash dummies that we use to design safety into our vehicles. That way, all of our customers will benefit in the long run."