Some still have a difficult time accepting automatic transmissions, anti-lock brakes and cruise control.

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But those risks have collapsed with the advent of airbags, anti-lock brakes and other technological breakthroughs.

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Ultimately, the invisible, under-the-hood electronic architecture of the plug-in hybrid will become as commonplace as automatic transmissions and anti-lock brakes.

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The Brazilian government says its new laws mandating frontal air bags and anti-lock brakes will dramatically improve safety, as will new impact standards.

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Mr Vogel points to car companies, which may charge extra for features such as anti-lock brakes and passenger-side airbags, instead of offering them as standard features.

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Some studies have suggested that anti-lock brakes may actually cause collisions, because motorists become overconfident and either drive faster or brake later in cars equipped with the technology.

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When you bring in a clunker that has no airbags, anti-lock brakes or other modern safety features and get a new car that does, you are protecting your family.

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