Ford has decided to stop using air bag inflators made by Takata Corp in future vehicles as the auto industry continues to move away from the potentially dangerous products. Takata inflators can explode with too much force, sending shrapnel into drivers and passengers. At least eight people have been killed worldwide and hundreds injured. Company spokeswoman Kelli Felker says Ford will stop using Takata inflators in any car, truck or SUV now under development.
Ford is the fourth automaker to make the move. The company will continue to buy other products from the Japanese maker of auto safety equipment. Honda, Toyota and Nissan already have announced plans to stop using Takata inflators in future vehicles. Twelve automakers have recalled 19.2 million vehicles in the US to replace defective inflators.
