Mechanical Properties

· Materials are not always used in their elastic range.
· In Automotive design, controlled Plastic Deformation is an essential safety feature. The small A-class Mercedes is required to meet the same crash safety standards as larger vehicles.

· Controlled deformation of the front section without deformation of the passenger compartment is essential to meet these standards.

· Start the video to see a VW Beetle experience a crash test!

From: Daimler Benz, "High Tech Report," #4 (1994)