KIRCHHOFF Automotive GmbH

Especially with e-vehicles, the engine block is missing and the front is often shortened. Thus, the consequences of a front collision are often dramatic. The central load application often leads to strong intrusions and poses an extreme risk to the passengers. A crash management system from KIRCHHOFF Automotive protects against this, in which the load paths and components have been adapted to this load case. The newly developed CMS enables continuous energy absorption over long intrusion paths without complete failure, thus protecting the passengers and the battery. In addition, the innovative concept offers increased corrosion protection through the use of pre-galvanized steels.

Further key features:
- Use of a MAG welding process optimized for galvanized materials: for process-reliable and low-porosity welding of galvanized steels and to ensure sufficient paint adhesion, especially in the area of the joining zone
- Realization of a completely laser welded concept with optimized design
Further reading

Economical lightweight construction taken to the next level: With our new instrument panel beam in hybrid design, KIRCHHOFF Automotive is making one of its core products fit for future vehicle concepts, relying on an optimum mix of the materials steel and aluminum with simultaneous integration of large-area infotainment systems.

Development focus of this instrument panel beam:
• Economical lightweight construction through intelligent use of aluminum and steel
• Use of steel in the driver’s side area due to high stiffness requirements with limited installation space conditions
• Use of aluminum in the middle and passenger side area with more favourable installation space conditions
• Connection between the aluminum and steel components without additional mechanical joining elements
• Connection options for large-scale infotainment systems that ensure vibration-free mounting and a high level of security
Further reading