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The paper describes development and testing of a polyurethane bumper for the VW-Dasher. Requirements were established on the basis of the performance of the previous bumper design consisting of a steel profile bar and hydraulic energy absorbers. The development proved that polyurethane bumpers can be used as energy-absorbing elements for the 5 mph barrier impact.

The energy-absorbing bumper system designed for the 1974 Volkswagen in described. Theoretical requirements in bumper design are explained, with emphasis on bumper height, energy tolerance needs, energy absorption, and systems for absorbing the energy involved. The six systems studied are assessed, and the final design chosen is explained. The paper also compares bumper requirements as specified in Europe and the United States.