US car manufacturer Ford has invented a car seat that can detect when a person is having a heart attack and take appropriate safety measures.

Six electronic sensors have been embedded in the car seat and operate alongside an in-car camera to detect when a driver is suffering a cardiac arrest.

The electrocardiograph sensors can detect when the heart's electrical impulses become irregular, while the camera is able to tell if the driver is slumped at an unusual angle.

Upon detecting a heart attack, the  vehicle's self-driving module is activated, bringing it to a stop in a safe location and avoiding an imminent collision.

Dr Achim Lindner, of the Ford Research Center, said the system could also be used to detect the symptoms of other conditions such as high blood pressure or electrolyte imbalances.

"This not only benefits the driver; but also could make the roads safer for all users," he added.