| It is probably due to the implementation of Dynamic Airbag Safety System (DASS) where crash testing is done with out of position ATD's and 5%tile female ATD's. This part of US occupant safety regs has a staggered implementation date related to volume of vehicles manufactured. It is probable that Ford elected not to comply with this when vehicle first built. The additional testing adds enormous cost to vehicle development. US 49CFR 571.208, if you want some serious reading, can explain it all.
Trevor |