The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, redesigned for the 2010 model year, has undergone rigorous testing to ensure occupant safety. This report focuses on the side impact crash test results for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, specifically models built after April 2010, which incorporated design enhancements to the front and rear door trim for improved protection in such collisions. These modifications are crucial for understanding the vehicle’s safety performance and ensuring passenger well-being. The information presented here is based on standardized crash testing procedures to provide objective insights into the vehicle’s structural integrity and occupant protection measures.
Excellent Side Impact Protection for Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2011
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class achieved the highest rating of “Good” in the side impact evaluation. This rating reflects the vehicle’s robust structure and effective safety features in protecting occupants during a side collision. The structural evaluation specifically highlights the integrity of the safety cage, which maintained its form well under the stress of the side impact. This structural strength is fundamental in minimizing occupant compartment intrusion and reducing the risk of injury.
This “Good” overall rating confirms that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2011 is engineered with a strong emphasis on side impact safety, providing a secure environment for both the driver and passengers.
Driver and Rear Passenger Safety Measures in the 2011 E-Class
Both driver and rear passenger injury measures were rated as “Good” across all critical body regions – head/neck, torso, and pelvis/leg. This consistent “Good” performance across all categories demonstrates the comprehensive approach Mercedes-Benz took in designing the E-Class for side impact protection. The effectiveness of the standard front and rear head curtain airbags and front seat-mounted torso airbags played a significant role in achieving these high ratings. These airbags are designed to deploy rapidly in a side impact, creating a protective cushion that minimizes contact with the vehicle’s interior structures.
Specifically, driver head protection was also rated “Good,” indicating that the side airbag system effectively prevented the driver’s head from hitting hard structures during the impact. The same “Good” rating for rear passenger head protection further underscores the vehicle’s commitment to safeguarding all occupants, not just those in the front seats.
Key Technical Measurements from the Side Impact Test
The technical measurements from the side impact test provide quantifiable data supporting the “Good” ratings. For instance, the occupant compartment intrusion on the driver’s side was measured at -24.0 cm (B-pillar to the longitudinal centerline of the driver’s seat). The negative value indicates that the crush stopped short of the seat centerline, demonstrating minimal intrusion into the driver’s space.
Driver injury measures further detail the protection levels:
- Head HIC-15: 177 (Lower is better, indicating less head injury risk)
- Neck Tension: 1.0 kN, Neck Compression: 0.4 kN (Low forces on the neck)
- Torso Maximum Deflection: 38 mm, Average Deflection: 32 mm (Controlled torso compression)
Similarly, rear passenger injury measures also show strong protection:
- Head HIC-15: 82 (Significantly low, indicating excellent head protection)
- Torso Maximum Deflection: 28 mm, Average Deflection: 20 mm (Minimal torso compression)
These measurements, along with other detailed data points, collectively illustrate the Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2011’s ability to effectively manage side impact forces and minimize injury risks for both front and rear occupants.
Conclusion: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – A Safe Choice for Side Impact Protection
The side impact crash test results for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class models built after April 2010 clearly demonstrate a high level of safety performance. The “Good” overall rating and consistently positive injury measures for both driver and rear passenger affirm the vehicle’s robust design and effective safety systems. For those prioritizing safety, particularly in side impact scenarios, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2011 stands out as a reliable and well-protected vehicle option. This detailed analysis underscores the commitment of Mercedes-Benz to occupant safety, making the E-Class a strong contender in its class for safety-conscious buyers.
