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Automotive glossary

Passenger Safety Cell

The safety cell is the strong central part of a car body around the occupants, designed to keep its shape in a crash.

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What is Passenger Safety Cell?

It uses high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels or other strong materials. Crumple zones in front and behind absorb energy so the cell does not have to. Pillars, sills and roof rails form its frame. Modern designs use different strength steels in different areas to balance stiffness and energy absorption.

How it works

Rigid structures spread crash loads around the cabin instead of letting them push into the occupant space.

Why it matters for your car

Repairs to the safety cell must follow the maker’s method; wrong welding can weaken it. A car with a damaged safety cell may be written off.

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