ELECTRIC VEHICLE CONSTRUCTION METHODS FOR FRONTAL IMPACT UTILIZING DEFORMATION SHAPE CONTROL

摘要

A frame structure is adapted to absorb energy from frontal impacts and extends under a front portion of the body frame. The frame structure includes a rear sub-frame located below and in front of a pair of side frame under-members, and a reinforcement bracket attached to the pair of side frame under-members to facilitate formation and control a deformation shape an energy absorption pocket in the side frame under-member during a frontal impact for temporarily restraining the rear sub-frame providing an energy absorption path before releasing the rear sub-frame to slide past the reinforcement bracket. The energy absorption pocket is formed in the side frame under-member forward of and outboard of the reinforcement bracket during a frontal impact prior to the rear sub-frame be released from a B-point bolt connection to the side frame under-member.