Problems concerning compatibility between commercial vehicles
and cars, and aggressiveness of commercial vehicles were taken up
extensively throughout the ESV development.
Setting our targets on the solution of this problem, improvement
of occupant protection and reduction of the damage to goods, we
carried out the MSCT (Mitsubishi Safety Concept Truck) research
based on our original policy. We fitted up 5 km/h E.A. (energy
absorbing) bumper and the E.A. frame in front, and installed the 5
km/h E.A. rear underride guard. For reduction of the damage to
goods at collision, we have developed our original E.A. system.
Crash tests were conducted with the GVW 7 ton truck and we obtained
the following results.
1. Occupant Protection at 30 km/h frontal barrier collision
As compared to the standard medium duty truck, the MSCT achieved
75% reduction of cab deformation and 40% reduction of frame
deceleration so that it has sufficient survival space.
2. Aggressiveness Reduction
35% reduction of maximum barrier load was accomplished at 30
km/h frontal barrier collision. We could reduce 80% of passenger
car underride length into truck rear end at 50 km/h crash, using
the MSCT safety guard.
3. Goods Damage Reduction
We could lower deceleration of goods to 65%.
The MSCT is reusable by E.A. device replacement up to the 25
km/h collision.