This research discusses the issue of how the currently used frontal crash tests correlate to actual accidents. The following data is presented in relation to this: (1) Results of offset crash tests now being conducted, and results of vehicle-to-vehicle crash tests, especially results of crash tests in which the vehicles have different weights; (2) Why do such differences occur? (3) Differences between the results of tests with moving deformable barriers (MDB) which are being studied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and results of vehicle-to-vehicle crash tests; and (4) Results of modifications to test methods. The following aspects of the above mentioned issues are discussed: (1) Important items and information to be considered in studying crash test methods to be used in the future; and (2) Information which needs to be taken into consideration in developing cars in the future.
Abstract