Modern airbag technology can deploy at variable speeds based on what factors?

Modern airbag technology is designed to enhance passenger safety by deploying at variable speeds in response to specific factors related to a crash situation. The correct choice emphasizes the significance of both the severity of the impact and the physical characteristics of the passengers, such as size and weight.

When a collision occurs, sensors in the vehicle assess the intensity of the impact. If the impact is severe, the airbag may deploy more rapidly or with greater force to provide the necessary protection. Conversely, in less severe collisions, the deployment may occur at a slower speed to reduce the risk of injury from the airbag itself.

Additionally, the size and weight of the passenger affect the timing and deployment force of the airbag. For instance, smaller individuals may require a different airbag deployment strategy than larger individuals to ensure their safety without excessive force that could cause injury. This tailored approach allows for a more effective response to varying crash scenarios, ultimately enhancing passenger safety.

The other options do not capture the primary factors that modern airbags consider during deployment. Weather conditions and road surface can affect driving safety, but they are not direct factors in airbag deployment. While driver response time and vehicle speed can influence the context of a crash, they don't directly determine how airbags deploy. The type