Instrument panel for absorbing driver energy in event of collision comprises layer of rigid plastic extending over width of compartment and plastic absorption plate extending opposite plastic layer over part of instrument panel

摘要

The instrument panel (1) for absorbing the energy of an occupant (12) of the vehicle compartment in the event of collision comprises a layer (2) of rigid plastic material extending continuously over the width of the compartment. There is a rigid plastic absorption plate (4) extending opposite the plastic layer over only a part of the instrument panel. The absorption plate has a principal portion (4a) extending in contact with the plastic layer and a portion (4c) forming an outgrowth extending away from the plastic layer so as form in this portion opposite the steering column a space (20) for absorbing the occupant's energy by deformation of the absorption plate. An independent claim is included for a vehicle fitted with the instrument panel.