One of the most difficult of the crash tests to pass that the IIHS puts new cars through in the US is the small overlap crash test. This is a test used to simulate an offset front-end collision in the real world. Honda invited a group of people to the IIHS testing facility to watch the 2016 Pilot perform this test. The harshness of the impact the car is subjected to is incredible.
In the test, the 2016 Pilot earned top marks for protecting the occupants in that type of collision. Honda also took the opportunity to show off what it called “the scrapbook.” The scrapbook is a collection of photos and letters sent to Honda from Honda and Acura owners who survived accidents in Honda vehicles that didn’t look survivable thanks to the safety features built in.
Understanding the Small Overlap Crash Test
The small overlap crash test is particularly challenging because it replicates a scenario where only a small portion of the vehicle’s front end collides with another object, such as a tree or a pole. This type of collision is especially dangerous because it bypasses much of the vehicle’s primary crumple zones, which are designed to absorb and dissipate energy during a crash. Instead, the impact is concentrated on a smaller area, making it more difficult for the vehicle to manage the forces involved.
The 2016 Honda Pilot’s performance in this test is a testament to the vehicle’s robust engineering and advanced safety features. The SUV’s structure is designed to distribute crash forces more evenly, reducing the risk of injury to occupants. The use of high-strength steel and other advanced materials helps to maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment, even in severe collisions.
The Importance of Real-World Testing
Honda’s decision to invite people to witness the crash test in person underscores the company’s commitment to transparency and safety. By allowing observers to see the test firsthand, Honda demonstrates the rigorous testing procedures that its vehicles undergo to ensure the highest levels of safety for drivers and passengers.
The video of the Pilot being destroyed in the small overlap test might be hard to watch for car enthusiasts, but it is also incredibly informative. It’s impressive how well the vehicle holds up to hitting a 200,000-pound barrier at 40mph. A crash test dummy is behind the wheel to simulate the effects of the accident on an average adult male. The dummy is equipped with sensors that measure various forces and impacts, providing valuable data that engineers use to improve vehicle safety.
Honda’s “scrapbook” is another powerful reminder of the real-world impact of these safety features. The collection of photos and letters from survivors highlights the life-saving potential of advanced safety technologies. These personal stories add a human element to the technical data, emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation in automotive safety.
In addition to the small overlap crash test, the 2016 Honda Pilot has undergone a series of other rigorous tests, including frontal crash tests, side impact tests, and rollover tests. Each of these tests evaluates different aspects of the vehicle’s safety performance, ensuring that it provides comprehensive protection in a variety of scenarios.
The Pilot’s top safety ratings are not just a result of its structural integrity but also its suite of advanced safety features. These include Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assist technologies that help prevent accidents before they occur. Features like Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) work together to enhance driver awareness and control, further reducing the risk of accidents.
If you like cars, the video of the Pilot being destroyed in the small overlap test might be hard to watch. It’s impressive how well the vehicle holds up to hitting a 200,000-pound barrier at 40mph. A crash test dummy is behind the wheel to simulate the effects of the accident on an average adult male.
via Forbes
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