Bodyshell

Bodyshell

The Panamera body shell is a hybrid structure, which is made up of several grades of advanced high-strength steels, stainless steel, aluminum and magnesium.


Advantages:
- Low vehicle weight
- Vehicle mass: approx. 3858 lbs (1750 kg)
- Bodyshell mass: approx. 772 lbs (350 kg)

- Low fuel consumption
- Optimum weight distribution
- Excellent occupant protection

This fully galvanized body makes for an extremely robust passenger cell and provides excellent impact protection for the occupants. A longitudinal and cross member structure at the front, patented by Porsche, absorbs deformation energy through two load paths that lie directly above one another. This structure then distributes the forces, minimizing deformation of the passenger compartment. As a second load path beside the longitudinal member structure, the aluminum subframe of the front axle increases passive safety by means of a defined deformation.

In the event of minor collisions, impact elements mounted to the front structure protect the bodyshell. These are easy to replace which helps keep repair costs reasonable. In the case of a more severe collision, a rigid bulkhead cross member prevents deformation of the footwell area and improves protection for occupants' lower extremities.

The reinforced doors also help to stiffen the overall structure. In the event of a frontal crash, the collision energy is transferred via an upper load path around the passenger cell, through the doors and to the rear of the vehicle. Manufacturing the front hood, fenders, doors and rear lid in aluminum also helped to reduce weight and consequently fuel consumption.