Air bags – Lee Iacocca (continued)

Iacocca writes to CARS Foundation about air bags

On March 5, 1986, CARS Founder Shahan invited Chrysler Chairman Iacocca to meet with people saved by air bags in severe crashes. Shahan reminded Iaocca that he had written in his autobiography, "I sometimes have the feeling that when I die–and assuming that I go to heaven–St. Peter is going to meet me at the gate to talk to me about air bags." Shahan hand-delivered the letter of invitation to Iacocca when he launched new Chrysler models at a reception in Washington, DC.

Iacocca responded:

"Thank you for your letter concerning air bags. I appreciated your bringing your views to my attention.

It was thoughtful of you to take the time to address this issue, and I will be sure to keep your comments in mind. Best wishes.

Sincerely,

Lee Iacocca"

Lee Iacocca, letter, May 5, 1986

 

"Critics dig up Tape of Iacocca, Nixon scuttling air bags"

"'He's so popular and he's being talked about for the presidency. But most people don't know about Lee Iacocca's position on auto safety," said Rosemary Shahan, president of the (CARS Foundation.)' Richard M. Nixon's now infamous sound-activated system began to roll as Lee Iacocca, now America's favorite corporate executive, told the president some of the government's safety requirements for cars were 'complete wastes of money.' "

– The Cleveland Plain Dealer, April 22, 1986