D3O Unveils Worlds First Motorcycle Helmet Featuring Smart Non-Newtonian Liner

The company D3O is set to launch a motorcycle helmet featuring a lining made from non-Newtonian material. This will be the world’s first helmet capable of changing its properties upon impact.

D3O plans to utilize a material that adapts its characteristics based on the magnitude of force applied. While it remains soft under normal conditions, it hardens instantly during an impact to provide protection.

In 2022, D3O unveiled the conceptual design of the Amp helmet. This technology is designed to absorb low-intensity impacts, such as those caused by branches while off-roading. The internal layer made of soft non-Newtonian material is complemented by additional padding. D3O already incorporates similar materials in military gear, sports protection, and industrial safety. Now, the company aims to apply this technology to helmets as well.

The new product is expected to hit the market in 2027. In the meantime, the traditional expanded polystyrene (EPS) remains the cost-effective and simpler option for helmet manufacturing. Although D3O’s non-Newtonian materials exhibit significant potential, their actual performance in helmets has yet to be evaluated.