Biplab Das 
Autoliv, Inc. and the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF) announced the renewal of their collaboration to enhance motorcycle safety globally. This initiative supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.6, which aims to reduce road traffic fatalities and injuries by 2030, and aligns with Autoliv’s objective of saving 100,000 lives annually.
The collaboration will focus on motorcycle safety, building on the partnership established in 2022. According to the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023, the number of motorbikes and scooters has nearly tripled since 2011, and these vehicles are involved in 21% of global road traffic deaths.
Mikael Bratt, CEO of Autoliv, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “Our partnership with UNRSF allows us to gain insights from the global road safety community and share our expertise as a leader in automotive safety,” he said. “Partnerships and collaborations are essential for reducing the global burden of road traffic deaths and severe injuries. We are confident that safety for motorcyclists and other vulnerable road user groups can be significantly improved. By working closely with the UN Road Safety Fund and its global network of partners, we can make the roads safer.”
Empowering global road safety initiatives
This partnership aims to empower the global road safety community, including UN agencies, NGOs, and technology providers, by sharing insights, knowledge, and data. Nneka Henry, Head of the UN Road Safety Fund, highlighted the urgent need for a collective approach to motorcycle safety. “The rising number of motorcycle fatalities demands a global, multi-stakeholder approach. We welcome Autoliv’s renewed commitment and leadership in addressing this critical challenge. By combining our resources and expertise, we can develop and implement effective solutions to make motorcycling safer for everyone.”
Upcoming road safety milestones
Autoliv’s renewed commitment comes as an important step towards the Road to Morocco High-Level Pledging Forum, set to take place during the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in February 2025. This forum will be an opportunity for stakeholders to pledge their support and resources towards reducing road traffic fatalities and injuries.
Why the focus on motorcycle safety?
The emphasis on motorcycle safety is driven by alarming statistics and the need for targeted interventions. The tripling number of motorbikes and scooters on the roads since 2011 has significantly increased the risk of accidents and fatalities. The 21% involvement of these vehicles in global road traffic deaths highlights the critical need for safety measures specifically aimed at motorcyclists.
Motorcycles are inherently more vulnerable than cars due to their lack of protective structures, making riders susceptible to severe injuries or fatalities in accidents. Enhancing motorcycle safety requires a multifaceted approach, including better safety gear, improved road infrastructure, and awareness campaigns.
Global collaboration for local impact
By renewing their collaboration, Autoliv and UNRSF aim to leverage their global influence to make a local impact in various countries. The partnership’s approach to sharing data and best practices is intended to help countries develop and implement policies and technologies that improve motorcycle safety.
The renewal of the collaboration between Autoliv and the UN Road Safety Fund underscores the importance of global partnerships in addressing critical safety issues. As motorcycle usage continues to rise, targeted efforts to enhance safety for motorcyclists are essential to reducing road traffic fatalities and injuries worldwide. This partnership aims to drive meaningful change and save lives, aligning with global goals for road safety and sustainability.
