(Detroit, MI) -- Ford Motor Company is trying out a new concept in safety - inflatable seat belts.

The company says the restraints combine the qualities of traditional seat belts and air bags. 
  
Ford says it also provides additional safety for back seat occupants.

The inflatable rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts.

This helps reduce pressure on the chest and helps control head and neck motion for rear seat passengers

The inflatable rear seat belts will debut on the next-generation Ford Explorer.