Effectiveness of load restraint system and load subjected to rear impacts: crash testing of Telstra VT Commodore service vehicle.

This paper presents results from a rear impact crash test carried out on a Telstra VT Commodore station wagon fitted with storage shelving and items typically carried for service calls. The test was undertaken to assess the possible safety risks in rear impacts for front seat occupants. Particular focus was placed on possible injury to larger occupants. A theoretical analysis and a series of static load tests were first conducted on a new model VT Commodore wagon fitted with shelving to Telstra specifications. These were followed by the crash test. The test protocol was largely based on FMVSS301, using an 1800 kg mobile test barrier impacting at 50 km/h into the rear of the Commodore with two 95 percent Hybrid III ATDs in the front seats. The barrier face was modified to allow override of the rear floor structure of the Commodore wagon, as could arise from a truck or 4WD impact. The test results clearly identified the increased injury risks to front seat occupants (such as severe whiplash injuries) that can arise in rear impacts due to items carried in the rear storage space of vehicles. The impact loading of rigid objects in the rear cargo area can result in significant deformation of the cargo barrier and consequent loading of the front seat. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E202275.