Nio and Autoliv are working together to develop a new airbag concept that provides comprehensive protection for different seating positions.

(Image credit: CnEVPost)

Nio (NYSE: NIO) has entered into a partnership agreement with Autoliv Inc, the world's largest manufacturer of airbags and seat belts, as the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker continues to expand its partnerships.

Autoliv China, a subsidiary of Autoliv, signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with Nio that includes several new safety technologies for EVs, according to a press release from the Swedish company.

Nio and Autoliv will develop safety products for EVs and sustainable technologies, which will include a passenger airbag that deploys from the headliner using an environmentally friendly inflator.

The two are also co-developing a new airbag concept that provides full protection for different seating positions, according to the press release.

This could provide better protection and offer more freedom in the design of vehicle interiors, Autoliv said, adding that it also includes biology-based materials for both airbag cushions and seatbelt webbing.

"We have a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, and we expect the cooperation will be extended to more areas, as we strive to enhance the driving experience and provide pleasant journeys for all global users", said Yu Pan, vice president of supply chain development at Nio.

This is the latest collaboration between Nio and auto parts suppliers.

On May 2, Dutch-headquartered computer chip maker NXP Semiconductors announced that Nio will use its 4D imaging radar solution, which offers benefits far beyond those of conventional radar.

4D imaging radar will significantly improve the performance of front-facing radar in today's vehicles, and NXP's imaging radar technology extends the functionality of radar from measuring range and speed to include direction, angle of arrival and altitude measurements, the chipmaker said.

Nio delivered 6,658 vehicles in April, up 31.22 percent from 5,074 a year ago, but down 35.85 percent from 10,378 in March, as its product switch continues.

The EV maker is now marketing the new ES6 with unprecedented intensity, with the model set to be officially launched on May 24 and deliveries to begin on May 25.

NIO pins high hopes on new ES6 with unprecedented delivery efficiency and marketing campaign