The Amazing Exploding Pinto By: Dave Carter

Background Ford's answer to the demand for smaller compact cars Began production in 1970 Priced under $2,000

Ethical Problems Gas tank installed between the rear bumper and the rear differential with minimal impact cushioning from rear bumper and insufficient rear bracing making it vulnerable to puncturing or breakage in the event of a rear-end collision as slow as 20mph resulting in a high possibility of a gas-fueled fire In some occasions the doors have become jammed trapping passengers

Ethical Problems Ford knew of this defect during the crash-test phase of design Vehicle passed all federal requirements to be approved for road use so ford proceeded with production

Ethical Considerations Cost of Potential Lawsuits 180 burn deaths x $200, serious burn injuries x $67,000 2,100 burned vehicles X $700 $49.15 million Cost to remedy the problem $11 per vehicle x 12.5 million cars (projected) $137 million

My Position Strongly disagree with Fords handling of the situation Attaching a dollar amount to a persons life is generally looked down on $11 was a more costly solution, a simple bladder inside the tank would have cost $6 per vehicle Adding the additional cost to the price wouldnt raise the price above the target $2000