Bodyshell

Bodyshell

Further developments in steel processing techniques have allowed the use of extremely thin-walled steels, which have very high rigidity values in order to comply with all relevant safety regulations. The weight enhancements are not restricted to the crash-relevant structures of the bodyshell. The use of aluminum for the hood and tailgate and new structures in the door also contribute to a significant reduction in the body weight.

The use of high-strength materials and hot-formed steels also makes a decisive contribution to reducing the overall vehicle weight. Lightweight construction measures on the body contributed to reducing the weight of the vehicle by 245 lbs (111 kg) compared with previous models. The doors, hood and tailgate account for a reduction of 86 lbs (39 kg) alone. In spite of the increased level of safety, it was possible to improve the driving dynamics as well as the fuel consumption values.