Abstract The introduction of highly automated vehicles (HAVs) will allow vehicle occupants to take advantage of new seating configurations, such as sitting rearward in the first row. One critical aspect of assessing occupant safety during high-speed impacts is the lack of a dedicated safety framework for rearward-facing passengers in the first row. This paper introduces a method to develop new assessment criteria for these novel seat configurations. Thus, this research presents some preliminary results of rearward-facing occupant injury biomechanics analyses carried out employing a variety of anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) and the VIVA+ 50M human body model (HBM), restrained with different belt configurations and considering different seat typologies. It reviews the suitability of 50th percentile male ATDs to capture a biofidelic engagement with the seat structure and belt system and evaluates the reaction loads on the occupant, along with the energy management resulting from seat back rotational stiffness and energy-absorbing foams layered behind the seat cushion. Based on the results, the THOR-AV-50M is a suitable candidate for further biofidelity analysis. Torso occupant loads can be effectively reduced utilizing seat back rotation but pelvis load management requires further studies.