Page 5 - MFi Vol.152 ATZ Extra Issue 2019

Small overlap test

Small overlap frontal crash tests are conducted by the Institute
for Highway Safety (IIHS). In the test, 25% of a vehicle’s front
end on the driver’s side strikes a rigid barrier at 40mph (64kph).
The overlap percentage is much lower than in a conventional
40% off-set crash, which means the strength required for the
cabin becomes greater.

BMW i3

The body of this electric vehicle has a
two-unit configuration. The upper unit (the
passenger cell) is made of CFRP
(Carbon-fiber- reinforced polymer), whereas
the upper unit (the drive module) and the
space frame are made of aluminum extruded
shapes. The door panels also have extruded Motor Fan illustrated
Passenger cell aluminum built-in frames.
(CFRP) ALUMINUM AUTOMOBILE TECHNOLOGY

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Lithium-ion battery Drive module
(Aluminum alloy chassis)

Suspension arms Shock absorbers Subframes
As safety critical components, suspension parts Aluminum shock absorbers are widely used A subframe is a structural component that is
need to be highly reliable. on 2-wheeled vehicles. Each shock absorber a separate structure within a larger
In order to enhance riding comfort and driving installed between the car body and the tyre monocoque. It carries certain components,
stability, use of high-strength forged aluminum consists of a spring which determines the such as the engine drivetrain or suspension.
alloy is expanding for axle parts such as posture and cushioning buffer action and a Subframes need to have high rigidity and
suspension arms and hub carriers, and other parts. damper which suppresses vibration. shock-absorbing capabilities.