crumple zone

plural crumple zones

1. A structural feature of a vehicle designed to compress during an accident and absorb impact energy.

   1 more example

   When Uff investigated Southall, the concept of crumple zones in rolling stock was slowly becoming established. He wrote: "A particular design feature which has proved controversial is the introduction of 'crumple zones', as energy-absorbing measures at the end of coaches. This was opposed by some who considered that it represented a new hazard in view of the possibility of passengers being located within these zones." British Rail designed and built its HSTs before crumple zones became common.

   2020 October 7, Philip Haigh, “From Southall to Carmont... how to keep passengers safe”, in Rail, page 46