Volkswagen has actively participated in the Experimental Safety Vehicle Programme, since the first conference in 1971. Volkswagen has produced a series of experimental safety vehicles:ESVW (1972); ESVW (1974); the research safety vehicle RSVW (1975). The most important work with respect to production vehicles is the Integrated Research Volkswagen, (IRVW), produced in three series in 1977, 1980 and 1984. A new test has been devised to evaluate the performance of passenger cars involved in side impacts. The new COMPOSITE Lateral Test Procedure is described.
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