Side-impact protection thanks to intelligent bodyshell
Similar to the design of the front area of the new M-Class, the vehicle's intelligent bodyshell design also performs impressively in side-impact accident scenarios. The specific distribution of high rigidity and high deformability helps to ensure that the occupants benefit from favourable kinematics in the event of a side impact:
The lower part of the B-pillar, an important component in side impacts, is
highly compressible, whereas its upper part is extremely rigid. As a result,
intrusions and the speed of intrusions in the lower area are reduced, while in
the upper area high-strength steels on the exterior sides of the pillar prevent
it from buckling unfavourably in a side impact. In addition, this design
solution increases the stability of the passenger compartment in the event of a
rollover
The stiffening of the floor structure by means of a supporting element made of
an ultra-high-strength material running across the entire width of the vehicle,
and ultra-high-strength reinforcements in the driver's seat crossmember, help to
reduce deformations, primarily in the event of a pole impact. As a result, the
occupant survival space benefits from even better protection, and the thorax
load on the occupants is reduced
The geometry and body connections of the pillars and the roof frame made of
ultra-high-strength material have been optimised to provide the best possible
crash safety
See also:
View through the camera
The area behind the vehicle is displayed as a
mirror image, as in the rear-view mirror.
WARNING
The rear view camera is only an aid and may
display obstacles
• from a distorted perspe ...
Exterior
A strictly utilitarian appearance is softened somewhat by body-colored
bumpers, rub strips and rocker panels, as well as alloy wheels and a
stainless-steel spare-tire cover. At 183.5 inches long o ...
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review
With a 23-mpg diesel version now available in all 50 states, the
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a more viable option for SUV-needing families — though
the appeal of a $60,000-plus four-wheeler seems li ...
