Ford has filed a patent for a new safety system that places airbags beneath the seat to protect passengers’ legs. The filing was registered on September 16, 2024, and published on October 21, 2025, under number 12447921.

According to the document, the system is designed for future Ford models, including autonomous cars where occupants may sit facing each other. In a collision, the airbag deploys upward from below, shielding passengers’ legs regardless of their position in the cabin. By locating the restraint under the seat, the concept directly addresses the risks that come with flexible seating layouts.

The company emphasized that a patent does not mean immediate rollout, but it does reflect a push to advance safety innovations. The new design could appear in 2026 vehicles, strengthening Ford’s footing in the realm of smart, safety-focused cars.