The paper will describe the features and characteristics of the project SIM (Safety In Motion). SIM Project is aimed at carrying out R&D activities addressing in-depth studies of a suitable and comprehensive safety strategy for powered two-wheel (PTW) vehicles, in order to avoid road accidents and/or mitigate their consequences. Main objectives of SIM are:​

• to identify a suitable safety strategy for PTWs;​
• to enhance preventive and active safety acting on electronic vehicle management and improving Human-Machine-Interaction (HMI);​
• to focus on integral passive safety devices;​

An integrated approach to the complex concept of motorcycle safety shall establish a matrix relationship between the three main factors or pillars for safety (PTW, rider and infrastructure) and the different aspects related to accident dynamics, from before-precipitating event to crash event (dealing with preventive, active and passive safety). The research will be based on the analysis of motorcycle accident databases from MAIDS, GIDAS and DEKRA. According to that, SIM project focuses on the vehicle safety aspects, including the human-machine-interaction.

Main results expected are:​

• development of electronic active devices (e.g. enhanced anti-lock braking system, traction control and brake-by-wire) for powered twowheelers;​
• development of a passive safety algorithm to activate passive safety devices;​
• adaptation of protective inflatable devices located on the rider (garment) and on the vehicle (for lower limbs protection);​
• implementation of innovative HMI

On-road and laboratory tests, based on the most relevant accident scenarios, will be conducted in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the safety system devices (e.g. mitigation of injuries via inflatable devices, probability of avoiding accident, etc…) fitted on an integrated concept vehicle. Innovation aspects are mainly an integrated approach to the issue and the introduction of new safety technologies in PTW field.