First Crash Test of the New Conceptual Pliers Underride Guard

The mechanical principle of a simple pliers tool was applied to design a new energy absorbing rear underride guard. The guard, consisting of a hanging steel frame held by a steel cables net, could avoid underride of a GM Vectra at 64 km/h colliding in 50% offset. Injury criteria measured at Hybrid 3 dummies showed a low crash severity (HIV = 381). The guard needs, however, further optimization to become commercially feasible.