The compatibility of passenger cars is mainly attributable to the parameters of mass, the shape of the contact surfaces and the rigidity of the vehicle's front end. Due to its low density, aluminium offers excellent conditions for compatible behaviour in road traffic. Using the Audi A8 as an example, a presentation is made of the design measures which have a positive impact on the distribution of kinetic energy on both the vehicles involved in a crash. Great importance is placed on structural and passenger simulations using FE and MBS programs during the concept phase of vehicle development. In the meantime the compatible design of the vehicle's front end has been confirmed by test series performed by independent test centers. Findings show that the aluminium body is subject to highly regular deformation in an offset crash both with a vehicle of identical mass and with vehicles of lower mass. The aluminium body is also capable of absorbing a high proportion of the total energy produced by the two vehicles. Finally, furthre test results are forming the basis for discussing how well the 40% offset crash at 40 mph (IIHS crash test) against a deformable barrier can simulate a real crash.
Abstract