Corus to supply tubular blanks

is to supply its Hyfo Tubular Blank to

to make the first hydroformed crash can to go into production in Europe. Corus has not yet released the value of the deal.

Unlike more traditional crash cans, which are typically constructed using up to eight components, the proposed design consists of a single hydroformed Tubular Blank which is then cut in half to produce a vehicle pair. This approach reduces both assembly complexity and the weight of the component itself.

The crash can performs a critical role in car safety and is designed to manage the deceleration pulse on impact, limiting damage at low speed and managing energy absorption so that passenger safety is maximised in a more severe impact.

Corus will supply The Hyfo Tubular Blank directly to Metalbages, part of the Gestamp Group, plant in Pamplona in northern Spain where the crash can will be made, before being shipped to the vehicle manufacturer. Volume production of the crash can will commence in early 2006.