e glass shards in accidents. The introduction of the steel belted tires reduced the amount of tire blowouts, which can lead to rollovers.In the 1980's the public started to listen and jump onto Nader's bandwagon. The public was demanding automobiles equipped with life saving safety features. GM introduced the rear lap/shoulder belt in 1986 as standard equipment. Also in 1986 Volvo introduced a detachable seat for children up to the age of four. In the late 1980's antilock brakes became optional equipment offered by most car companies. In the 1990's airbags and antilock brakes became standard equipment on most automobiles. Crumple zones became a priority and were implemented to give added safety during an accident. The front and rear of the automobile crumple, accordion style, while keeping the cabin intact. Better day-time visibility was an issue, so daytime running lamps became a standard option for many manufacturers. In the mid-nineties OnStar, a roadside assistance program, was developed for GM to be installed on Cadillacs.In the 1990's, mergers became more important in the automotive industry, but for different reasons than in the decades before. In the 1940's and 1950's auto manufactures bought other automotive makers to eliminate competition and increase in size. This strategy worked in the formative years of the automotive industry because foreign competition was non-existent. People only had American companies to purchase from, so the automaker felt this was the best use of their money. In the 1970's foreign competition became stronger, but American companies still felt confident in their sales ability. Big American automotive mergers were limited in the 1970's and 1980's. Mergers are now taking place to gain entry into a different market segment. Companies now want to merge with automotive leaders in their respective market segments. Ford Motor Company wanted into the luxury car market, so instead of designi...
