BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 15th Mar 2002


FORMING the basis of Astra's safety system is a passenger safety cell with front, rear and side deformation zones. The front structure absorbs forces generated in an accident via three load paths. In the event of a head-on collision, the front frame serves as the main load path. In the upper area, the wheel arch reinforcements distribute crash energy toward the rear through the A-pillars and door reinforcements. The suspension subframe forms the lower load path. An additional system cross-member between the A-pillars acts as a stable anchor for the energy-absorbing steering column, decoupling it from the windshield cross-member and front bulkhead to reduce penetration into the cabin. All Astras are fitted with dual, full-size front airbags and all seating positions have lap-sash seatbelts. The front seatbelts have an adjustable upper mounting point and pyrotechnic pretensioners that take up seatbelt slack in high-speed impacts. The front seatbelts also incorporate a force limiter to minimise injury risk. All seats have "anti-submarining" design to prevent passengers sliding underneath the belt in a collision, while the B-pillar design enables side impact forces to be dissipated through the floor panel and seat mounting cross-members. Strengthened foam-filled doors and alloy side-impact beams provide extra protection.
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