Ford prototype seat measures your heart rate

Ford continues its foray into health and wellness with a car that can monitor the driver's heart activity.

Research engineers in Germany have developed a prototype seat with six sensors that can monitor the heart's electric impulses through clothes and give an early warning as to whether a driver should seek medical attention because of irregularities.

Drivers who have cardiovascular disease are 23 percent more likely to be involved in a car accident. This technology could cut down on such accidents. Researchers say the MyFord Touch system could use the driver's cell phone to alert medical centers, or Sync could engage its emergency assistance function.

This continues a trend for Ford. The carmaker said last week that it is looking to make the car a mobile wellness hub with the ability to monitor glucose and allergen levels.

One challenge, though, is having the heart monitor tell the difference between impending tachycardia and the rush you get when taking a nice, twisty section of road.

By Julie Alvin