Body structure

Abstract

A vehicle body structure that suppresses damage to a hood during a minor collision. The vehicle body structure (A) includes a rear crush box (53c) that compresses and deforms when a first predetermined load acts, and a front crush box (53d) that compresses and deforms when a second predetermined load smaller than the first predetermined load acts. The front portion of the hood (BF) is located further rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush box (53c).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle body structure provided on a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a pair of left and right front side frames extending in the vehicle front-to-rear direction are provided at the front portion of the vehicle body. In Patent Document 1, a subframe is connected to the lower side of the front side frames. The subframe comprises closed-loop structures, each having a substantially parallelogram shape, on the left and right sides. Specifically, the closed-loop structure on the left side comprises a front member extending in the vehicle width direction, inner and outer members inclined inward in the vehicle width direction from both ends of the front member toward the rear of the vehicle, and a rear member extending from the rear of the inner member to the rear of the outer member. Similarly, the closed-loop structure on the right side comprises a front member, inner and outer members, and a rear member.

[0003] In addition, a hood is provided on the front side of the automobile so as to be openable and closable. The front portion of the hood is often located above or near the front bumper.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-106808 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0008] Here, let's assume a situation where a car collides with an obstacle, for example. Depending on the severity of the collision, there may be a minor collision, classified as a closed-loop structure described in Patent Document 1, where only the front portion of the vehicle deforms. To prevent damage to the vehicle's frame (e.g., the front side frame) during such a minor collision, a bumper reinforcement is sometimes installed inside the front bumper. This is supported by a crush box extending in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, allowing only the crush box to compress and deform, absorbing the impact load during a minor collision.

[0009] However, if the crush box compresses and deforms during a minor collision, obstacles that collide with the front surface of the vehicle will move relatively rearward, potentially impacting the front portion of the hood. The hood is significantly weaker than, for example, the front side frames, making it susceptible to deformation when an obstacle strikes the front of the vehicle. Deformation of the hood requires either sheet metal repair or replacement, both of which are costly.

[0010] The present application has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present application is to suppress damage to the hood during a minor collision.

[0011] Solutions for solving technical problems

[0012] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, the first aspect of the present disclosure is based on a vehicle body structure having a hood on the front side of the vehicle. The vehicle body structure comprises: a pair of left and right rear crush boxes attached to a body side member, extending from the body side member toward the front of the vehicle, and maintaining their initial shape before a first predetermined load is applied during a collision. Upon application of the first predetermined load, the crush boxes compress and deform; and a pair of left and right front crush boxes extending from the front of the rear crush boxes toward the front of the vehicle, and compress and deform upon application of a second predetermined load less than the first predetermined load during a collision. The front portion of the hood is located further rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush boxes.

[0013] According to this configuration, when a vehicle collides, an impact load acts on the front crush box and the rear crush box. In this case, in the event of a light collision where an impact load is greater than the second specified load and less than the first specified load, the front crush box compresses and deforms, while the rear crush box hardly deforms behind the vehicle relative to the front crush box, maintaining its original shape. The front of the rear crush box is positioned forward of the front of the hood. Therefore, even if an obstacle moves relatively toward the rear of the vehicle, it will not hit the front of the hood, thereby preventing damage to the hood caused by the collision of the obstacle. Furthermore, in the event of a collision where the impact load exceeds the first specified load, the rear crush box also deforms, thereby absorbing the impact load.

[0014] The vehicle body side member according to the second side face of the present disclosure is a suspension support member that supports a front suspension device, and a rear portion of the rear crush box is mounted to a front portion of the suspension support member.

[0015] According to this configuration, the suspension support member is a highly rigid member that supports the front suspension system. Attaching the rear crush box to this highly rigid suspension support member can suppress the rearward movement of the rear crush box during a minor collision, preventing obstacles from hitting the hood.

[0016] A third aspect of the present disclosure further comprises: a lower cross member extending in the vehicle width direction below the front crush box; and a lower impact absorbing member supporting both sides of the lower cross member in the vehicle width direction and absorbing a vehicle front-rear impact load. The lower impact absorbing member extends further forward of the vehicle than the front portion of the hood.

[0017] According to this configuration, the impact load during a minor collision can also be absorbed by the lower impact absorbing member, and thus the effect of suppressing damage to the hood is further enhanced.

[0018] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure further includes an upper cross member extending in the vehicle width direction at a position behind the front portion of the rear crush box and above the rear crush box. The upper cross member is provided with a fixing portion for fixing the front portion of the hood.

[0019] According to this configuration, the front portion of the hood is fixed to the upper cross member via the fixing portion. If a minor collision occurs in this fixed state, the upper cross member, to which the fixing portion is attached, is positioned further rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush box. Therefore, even if the obstacle moves relatively rearward of the vehicle, it will not strike the front portion of the hood.

[0020] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a bumper reinforcement extending in the vehicle width direction is mounted in front of the front crush box. The left side of the front hood is formed so as to be positioned further rearward of the vehicle as it approaches the left end, and the right side of the front hood is formed so as to be positioned further rearward of the vehicle as it approaches the right end. The intermediate portion between the left and right sides of the front hood is formed so as to extend in the vehicle width direction. The rear crush box is located directly below the intermediate portion of the hood.

[0021] With this configuration, for example, if the left and right sides of the front portion of the hood are formed so as to gradually position themselves toward the rear of the vehicle, as required by vehicle design, obstacles are less likely to strike the left and right sides of the hood during a minor collision. On the other hand, since the vehicle-widthwise central portion of the hood extends in the vehicle-widthwise direction, obstacles are more likely to strike this central portion during a minor collision. With this configuration, a pair of left and right rear crush boxes can be positioned corresponding to the vehicle-widthwise central portion of the hood, making it less likely that obstacles will strike the vehicle-widthwise central portion of the hood during a minor collision.

[0022] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure further comprises: a cross member disposed vertically apart from the front crush box and extending in the vehicle width direction; and a shock absorbing member supporting both sides of the cross member in the vehicle width direction and absorbing a collision load in the vehicle front-rear direction. The shock absorbing member is located directly below the intermediate portion of the hood.

[0023] According to this configuration, the impact absorbing member can be arranged corresponding to the middle portion of the hood in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, an obstacle is less likely to hit the middle portion of the hood in the vehicle width direction during a light collision.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] As described above, in a light collision of the vehicle, only the front crush box is deformed without deforming the rear crush box, and the front portion of the hood is positioned further rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush box, thereby suppressing damage to the hood. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 It is a side view of an automobile including the vehicle body front structure according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a state where a vehicle is divided into an upper structure and a lower structure.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view of a portion of a vehicle body.

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view along line IV-IV in FIG.

[0030] Figure 5 A perspective view showing the lower structure with the cover member removed.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a portion of the front side of a car as viewed from above.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the front of the vehicle body.

[0033] Figure 8 It is a top view of the front of the vehicle.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a bottom view of the front of the vehicle.

[0035] Figure 10 This is the front view of the car.

[0036] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the dash panel and its vicinity as viewed from the rear of the vehicle.

[0037] Figure 12 It is a perspective view showing, in enlarged form, the mounting structure of the left lower support member to the front wheel suspension support member.

[0038] Explanation of symbols

[0039] 1 car

[0040] 51A, 51B Front wheel suspension support member (body side member)

[0041] 53A left side crush box

[0042] 53B right crush box

[0043] 140 bumper reinforcement

[0044] 160 Upper crossbeam

[0045] 161 Lower crossbeam

[0046] 162 Left upper support member (upper impact absorbing member)

[0047] 163 Right upper support member (upper impact absorbing member)

[0048] 164 Left lower support member (lower impact absorbing member)

[0049] 168 fixed part

[0050] A. Front structure of the vehicle body (vehicle body structure)

[0051] BF hood

[0052] BF2 left side

[0053] BF3 right side

[0054] BF4 middle part DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The following describes the embodiments of the present invention in detail based on the accompanying drawings. Note that the following description of the preferred embodiments is merely illustrative in nature and does not limit the present invention, its applicable objects, or its uses.

[0056] Figure 1 The vehicle front structure A (shown in FIG. 1 ) according to the embodiment of the present invention is viewed from the left side. Figure 2 ) is a side view of a vehicle 1. In the description of this embodiment, the vehicle front-to-back direction is referred to simply as the "front-to-back direction," the front side of the vehicle is referred to simply as the "front side," and the "rear side" of the vehicle is referred to simply as the "rear." Furthermore, the vehicle width direction is the left-to-right direction of the vehicle, the left side of the vehicle is referred to simply as the "left side," and the right side of the vehicle is referred to simply as the "right side."

[0057] (Overall structure of the car)

[0058] The automobile 1 is a passenger car, and a passenger space R1 for passengers is provided in the middle portion of the automobile 1 in the front-to-back direction. The passenger space R1 is provided with front seats (front seats) FS constituting the front seats and rear seats (rear seats) RS constituting the rear seats. The front seats FS include a driver's seat arranged on the right (or left) side of the passenger space R1 and a passenger seat arranged on the left (or right) side of the passenger space R1. The rear seats RS are also arranged on the right and left sides of the passenger space R1, respectively. Although not shown in the figure, a third row of seats can be arranged behind the rear seats RS. In addition, the rear seats RS are not required and can be omitted.

[0059] A front door FD and a rear door RD are provided on the left and right sides of the passenger space R1, respectively. In the case of the automobile 1 without rear seats RS, the rear door RD may be omitted.

[0060] A front space R2 is provided in the automobile 1 further forward than the passenger space R1. In the front space R2, a powertrain PT (Powertrain) can be mounted as needed. When the front space R2 is equipped with the powertrain PT, the front space R2 can also be referred to as a powertrain storage room, a motor compartment, an engine compartment, etc. A bonnet BF (Bonnet hood) is provided in the upper portion of the front space R2. The rear portion of the bonnet BF is supported on the vehicle body by hinges (not shown) and the like. In addition, a front bumper 150 is provided in the front portion of the automobile 1. Further, as Figure 10 As also shown in FIG, left and right headlights L are provided on the left and right sides of the front portion of the automobile 1. The headlights L may further include turn signals and the like.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, a trunk space R3 for storing luggage and the like is provided behind the passenger space R1 of the vehicle 1. The trunk space R3 can be opened and closed by a trunk lid TR (trunk lid). A rear space R4 is provided behind the passenger space R1 and below the trunk space R3 of the vehicle 1. A powertrain PT, which generates power for the vehicle 1, can be installed in this rear space R4 as needed. When the powertrain PT is installed in the rear space R4, it can also be referred to as a powertrain storage room, motor compartment, or engine compartment, for example.

[0062] The powertrain PT can be installed in both the front space R2 and the rear space R4, or in only one. If the powertrain PT is installed only in the front space R2, the vehicle is a front-wheel-drive vehicle, in which the powertrain PT drives only the front wheels FT. If the powertrain PT is installed only in the rear space R4, the vehicle is a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, in which the powertrain PT drives only the rear wheels RT. Furthermore, if the powertrain PT is installed in both the front space R2 and the rear space R4, driving both the front wheels FT and the rear wheels RT, the vehicle is a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

[0063] The powertrain PT includes at least a travel motor M (shown in FIG. Figure 2 ), and further including a speed reducer, a transmission, etc. as needed. Therefore, the automobile 1 is an electric automobile. The driving motor M is arranged so that its rotation center extends in the left-right direction. In addition to the driving motor M, the powertrain PT may also include, for example, a control unit. The powertrain PT may also include an internal combustion engine. A battery unit Y (also shown in FIG. 1 ) for supplying power to the driving motor M Figure 1 ) is mounted on the lower part of the vehicle 1. For example, the battery unit Y can be charged with the power generated by the internal combustion engine, or at least one of the front wheel FT and the rear wheel RT can be driven by the power generated by the internal combustion engine.

[0064] The type of car 1 can also be Figure 1 In the figure, a four-door car is shown as an example, for example, a car without a rear door RD. In addition, though not shown, the present invention can also be applied to the car that can open and close the rear space R4 by a tailgate as a hatchback car.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the automobile 1 includes a lower structure 2 and an upper structure 3, wherein the front portion of the lower structure 2 and the front portion of the upper structure 3 constitute a vehicle body front structure A. Furthermore, the vehicle body front structure A may further include a front-to-back intermediate portion of the lower structure 2 and the upper structure 3.

[0066] exist Figure 2 , the upper structure 3 is shown in a state where the doors FD, RD, hood BF, fenders, window glass, roof, center pillar, rear pillar, front bumper 150, rear bumper, front and rear lighting devices including headlights (headlights L, etc.), instrument panel, front and rear seats, etc., which are originally provided therewith, are removed. Figure 2 3 shows a state in which the front wheel FT, the rear wheel RT, the suspension device, etc. originally provided with the lower structure 2 are removed.

[0067] The lower structure 2 includes a battery unit Y. The battery unit Y includes a front battery FB and a rear battery RB, and a frame 10 surrounding the front and rear batteries FB and RB. Furthermore, the lower structure 2 includes a front support frame 20 extending forward from the front of the frame 10 and a rear support frame 30 extending rearward from the rear of the frame 10.

[0068] Although not shown in the figure, in the case of a general electric vehicle, the battery unit is often arranged under the floor as a component different from the vehicle body so that it can be loaded and unloaded. However, in this embodiment, not only the batteries FB and RB, but also the front support frame 20 and the rear support frame 30 are integrated into the frame 10 surrounding the batteries FB and RB, and the front support frame 20 and the rear support frame 30 can also be loaded and unloaded relative to the upper structure 3 together with the batteries FB and RB.

[0069] Specifically, the automobile 1 of this embodiment is configured to be vertically separable into a lower structure 2 containing batteries FB and RB, and an upper structure 3 forming a passenger space R1 and a trunk space R3. This separability means that the lower structure 2 is integrated with the upper structure 3 using fastening members such as bolts, nuts, and screws, rather than welding or bonding. This allows the lower structure 2 to be separated from the upper structure 3 as needed for maintenance and repair after the automobile 1 is delivered to the user, improving maintainability.

[0070] A well-known automobile body structure is the ladder frame type. A ladder frame structure can be divided vertically into a ladder frame and a cabin. However, because the ladder frame extends continuously in the front-to-back direction, it primarily bears the impact load in frontal and rear collisions. In side collisions, the ladder frame only assists in bearing the impact load, while the cabin bears the primary impact load. Thus, in a ladder frame structure, the components that bear the impact load in frontal and rear collisions, and in side collisions, are generally distinguished.

[0071] In the case of the automobile 1 of this embodiment, although the lower structure 2 and upper structure 3, which have the front support frame 20 and the rear support frame 30, are separable, in the event of a head-on collision, a rear collision, or a side collision, the collision load is borne by the lower structure 2 and the upper structure 3, thereby distributing and absorbing the collision load between the two structures 2 and 3. This is a technical concept that differs significantly from conventional ladder-frame vehicle body structures. The structures of the lower structure 2 and the upper structure 3 are described below in order. Furthermore, while this embodiment describes an example of a vehicle body that can be separated into the lower structure 2 and the upper structure 3, the present invention is applicable not only to such separable vehicle body structures but also to vehicle body structures that cannot be separated into the lower structure 2 and the upper structure 3.

[0072] (Lower structure)

[0073] First, the lower structure 2 is described. The lower structure 2 includes batteries FB, RB, a frame 10, a front support frame 20, and a rear support frame 30, and also includes a powertrain PT, front wheels FT, rear wheels RT, Figure 3 The front suspensions SP1, SP2 and rear suspensions SP3, SP4 are indicated by dashed lines. The types of the front suspensions SP1, SP2 and rear suspensions SP3, SP4 are not particularly limited, and the vehicle body structure can be changed according to the types of the front suspensions SP1, SP2 and rear suspensions SP3, SP4.

[0074] like Figure 2As shown, the skeleton of the battery unit Y, i.e., the frame 10, is a component used to surround and protect the front battery FB and the rear battery RB, wiring harnesses, etc. The frame 10 is formed as a large component below the passenger space side floor panel 41 described later, from near the left end of the passenger space side floor panel 41 to near the right end, and from near the front end to near the rear end of the passenger space side floor panel 41. By arranging the frame 10 in a wide area below the passenger space side floor panel 41 in this way, large-capacity batteries FB and RB can be mounted on the automobile 1. The batteries FB and RB can be, for example, lithium-ion batteries, all-solid-state batteries, etc., or other secondary batteries. In addition, the batteries FB and RB can be so-called battery cells or battery packs that accommodate multiple battery cells.

[0075] The frame 10 includes a left side member 11, a right side member 12, a front side member 13, and a rear side member 14. These members 11 to 14 are battery members. The left side member 11, the right side member 12, the front side member 13, and the rear side member 14 are made of, for example, an aluminum alloy extrusion, but can also be made of an aluminum alloy plate or a press-formed part of a steel plate. In the following description, "extruded parts" are extruded parts made of aluminum alloy, and "press-formed parts" are press-formed parts made of aluminum alloy plate or steel plate. In addition, each member can also be made of, for example, a casting, a die-casting, etc.

[0076] The left side panel 11, right side panel 12, front panel 13, and rear panel 14 all have rectangular cross-sections perpendicular to their longitudinal directions. Furthermore, the left side panel 11, right side panel 12, front panel 13, and rear panel 14 are all arranged at the same height and extend generally horizontally. The front panel 13 extends in the vehicle width direction in front of the battery unit Y.

[0077] When the lower structure 2 is joined to the upper structure 3, the front side member 13 is fastened to the lower portion of the dash panel 50 by fastening members, and the left side member 11 and the right side member 12 are fastened to the left and right side members 60 by fastening members, respectively. Furthermore, the rear side member 14 is fastened to the connecting panel 43, which will be described later, by fastening members.

[0078] The left side member 11 is provided at the left end of the lower structure 2 and extends in the front-to-back direction. The right side member 12 is provided at the right end of the lower structure 2 and extends in the front-to-back direction. The left side member 11 and the right side member 12 are respectively arranged on the inner side of the left and right side members 60 in the vehicle width direction. In addition, the front side member 13 extends from the front end of the left side member 11 to the front end of the right side member 12. The left end of the front side member 13 is connected to the front end of the left side member 11, and the right end of the front side member 13 is connected to the front end of the right side member 12. The rear side member 14 is provided at the rear of the battery unit Y and extends in the left-to-right direction from the rear end of the left side member 11 to the rear end of the right side member 12. The left end of the rear side member 14 is connected to the rear end of the left side member 11, and the right end of the rear side member 14 is connected to the rear end of the right side member 12.

[0079] A cover member 15 (shown in FIG. 1 ) serving as a bottom plate is attached to the lower portion of the frame 10. Figure 5 ). A passage forming portion 15a forming a cooling water passage through which cooling water can flow is provided on the cover member 15. The frame 10 is closed from below by the cover member 15. The cover member 15 extends approximately horizontally and is fixed to the lower surfaces of the left side member 11, the right side member 12, the front side member 13 and the rear side member 14, and is also fixed to the side member 60 as described later. In addition, the upper portion of the frame 10 can be closed with a cover body not shown in the figure or with the passenger space side floor panel 41 described later. In addition, the power of the batteries FB and RB housed in the frame 10 is supplied to the driving motor M via a driving control circuit not shown in the figure. Furthermore, the batteries FB and RB can be charged via a charging socket not shown in the figure.

[0080] Figure 4 It represents the cross section of the left-right center portion of the vehicle body front structure A. Figure 4 As shown, the first to third battery side cross beams 10A, 10B, and 10C are provided on the inner side of the frame 10 as reinforcing members extending in the left-right direction. The first to third battery side cross beams 10A, 10B, and 10C are arranged at intervals from each other in the front-to-back direction. The left end of each battery side cross beam 10A, 10B, and 10C is fixed to the inner surface (right side) of the left side square member 11, and the right end of each battery side cross beam 10A, 10B, and 10C is fixed to the inner surface (left side) of the right side square member 12. In addition, the front center member 16 and the first to third rear center members 17 to 19 are provided on the inner side of the frame 10 as reinforcing members extending in the front-to-back direction.

[0081] like Figure 2As shown, a pair of left and right front support frames 20 are provided, extending substantially horizontally and linearly below the upper structure 3. Each front support frame 20 can be formed, for example, from an extruded part or a press-formed part. In this embodiment, each front support frame 20 is formed from an extruded part, so the cross-sectional shape in a direction perpendicular to the front-to-back direction is substantially uniform from the front end to the rear end.

[0082] The left front support frame 20 is connected to a portion of the front side member 13 constituting the front portion of the frame 10, to the left of the center in the left-right direction. This connection portion is located to the right of the left side square member 11 of the frame 10. Furthermore, the right front support frame 20 is connected to a portion of the front side member 13, to the right of the center in the left-right direction. This connection portion is located to the left of the right side square member 12 of the frame 10. The heights of the left and right front support frames 20 are substantially the same.

[0083] The front powertrain PT is mounted to the front support frame 20 via mounting members (not shown). In this case, the front support frame 20 serves as a front motor support frame that supports the travel motor M in front of the battery unit Y. Drive shafts S1 are provided on the left and right of the lower structure 2 to transmit the output of the powertrain PT (rotational force of the travel motor M) to the left and right front wheels FT, respectively.

[0084] like Figure 2 As shown, the rear support frame 30 is provided with a pair of left and right parts similar to the front support frame 20, and extends substantially horizontally and linearly toward the rear. Each rear support frame 30 can be composed of, for example, an extruded part, a press-formed part, etc. In this embodiment, each rear support frame 30 is composed of an extruded part.

[0085] The left rear support frame 30 is connected to a portion of the rear side member 14 constituting the rear portion of the frame 10, which is located to the left of the center in the left-right direction. This connection portion is located to the right of the left side square member 11 of the frame 10. In addition, the right rear support frame 30 is connected to a portion of the rear side member 14, which is located to the right of the center in the left-right direction. This connection portion is located to the left of the right side square member 12 of the frame 10.

[0086] The rear powertrain PT is mounted to the rear support frame 30 via mounting members (not shown). In this case, the rear support frame 30 serves as a rear motor support frame that supports the travel motor M behind the battery unit Y. Drive shafts S2 are provided on the left and right of the lower structure 2 to transmit the output of the powertrain PT (rotational force of the travel motor M) to the left and right rear wheels RT, respectively.

[0087] (Upper structure)

[0088] Next, the upper structure 3 is described. The upper structure 3 includes a floor component 40, a dash panel 50, and a pair of left and right side members 60. The floor component 40 is disposed above the frame 10 and the rear support frame 30 of the lower structure 2. The floor component 40 includes a front seat FS and a rear seat RS (shown in FIG. 1 ) on which passengers sit. Figure 1 ) comprises a passenger space side floor panel 41 forming the floor of the passenger space R1, a trunk space side floor panel 42 forming the floor of the trunk space R3, and a connecting panel 43 connecting the rear portion of the passenger space side floor panel 41 and the front portion of the trunk space side floor panel 42. The connecting panel 43 constitutes a kick-up portion.

[0089] The floor component 40 can be formed, for example, from a press-formed steel plate. The passenger compartment floor panel 41, the trunk compartment floor panel 42, and the connecting panel 43 can be integrally formed or formed separately and then connected. While this embodiment describes the floor component 40 as consisting of the passenger compartment floor panel 41, the trunk compartment floor panel 42, and the connecting panel 43, the floor component 40 comprising these panels 41-43 can also be referred to as a floor panel. Furthermore, the passenger compartment floor panel 41 alone can also be referred to as a floor panel.

[0090] The passenger space side floor panel 41 extends from the front to the rear of the passenger space R1 and from the left to the right side of the passenger space R1. The passenger space side floor panel 41 of this embodiment has a tunnel-less structure without a tunnel portion, but may also have a tunnel portion.

[0091] A downwardly bulging recessed portion 41a is formed in the middle portion of the passenger space-side floor panel 41 in the front-to-back direction. The recessed portion 41a has a bottom portion 41b for placing the feet of a rear-seat occupant seated in the rear seat RS. The bottom portion 41b is formed substantially horizontally. The recessed portion 41a can be formed continuously from the left side to the right side of the passenger space-side floor panel 41.

[0092] The trunk space-side floor panel 42 is located above the passenger space-side floor panel 41. The rear space R4 is located below the trunk space-side floor panel 42. Since the trunk space-side floor panel 42 is located above the passenger space-side floor panel 41, the connecting panel 43 extends in the vertical direction.

[0093] like Figure 4As also shown in FIG, the dash panel 50 is a member that serves as a partition wall between the front space R2 and the passenger space R1, and extends upward from the front portion of the passenger space side floor panel 41 and also extends in the left-right direction to partition the front portion of the passenger space R1.

[0094] like Figure 2 As shown, the left and right side members 60 are arranged so as to extend in the front-to-rear direction from the left and right ends of the passenger space side floor panel 41, respectively. The left end of the passenger space side floor panel 41 is connected to the middle portion of the left side member 60 in the vertical direction. The upper portion of the side member 60 protrudes upward from the connection point with the passenger space side floor panel 41, and the lower portion of the side member 60 protrudes downward from the connection point with the passenger space side floor panel 41. Because the battery unit Y containing batteries FB and RB is arranged below the passenger space side floor panel 41, the side member 60 is arranged so that the lower portion of the side member 60 overlaps with the batteries FB and RB when viewed from the side. Furthermore, the right side member 60 is similarly connected to the right end of the passenger space side floor panel 41.

[0095] The upper structure 3 includes a pair of left and right hinge pillars 70. The right hinge pillar 70 extends upward from the front end of the right side beam 60. In addition, the left hinge pillar 70 extends upward from the front end of the left side beam 60. The left and right front doors FD ( Figure 1 (as shown). The left edge of the dash panel 50 is connected to the right side of the left hinge pillar 70. Furthermore, the right edge of the dash panel 50 is connected to the left side of the right hinge pillar 70. Although not shown, the center pillar and rear pillars are also provided on the upper structure 3.

[0096] A suspension device (front suspension device) SP1 ( Figure 4 The left front wheel suspension support member 51A is supported. In addition, a suspension device (front suspension device) SP2 ( Figure 4 The front wheel suspension support member 51B on the right side supports the front wheel FT (indicated by dashed lines). The type of suspension devices SP1 and SP2 is not particularly limited; for example, they may include suspension arms, shock absorbers, springs, etc. that support the front wheel FT in a vertically swingable manner. The vehicle body-side ends of the suspension arms and the upper ends of the shock absorbers are attached to the front wheel suspension support members 51A and 51B. The front wheel suspension support members 51A and 51B may be made, for example, of aluminum die-casting, but are not limited thereto and may also be constructed by combining steel plates, etc.

[0097] like Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1 , three left-side mounting brackets 52A are provided on the left side, forward of the dash panel 50, for securing the left front wheel suspension support member 51A. The three left-side mounting brackets 52A are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the front portions of the three left-side mounting brackets 52A are fixed to the front wheel suspension support member 51A. Meanwhile, the rear portion of the left-side mounting bracket 52A, located at the top and in the middle of the vertical direction, is fixed to the left hinge pillar 70 and the left side of the dash panel 50. Furthermore, the rear portion of the left-side mounting bracket 52A, located at the bottom, is connected to the left side member 60 and the left side of the front side member 13 of the frame 10. This allows the rear portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A to be connected to the front side member 13.

[0098] like Figure 3 As shown only partially in the figure, three right-side mounting brackets 52B are provided on the right side, forward of the dash panel 50, for securing the right front wheel suspension support member 51B. The three right-side mounting brackets 52B are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and their front portions are fixed to the front wheel suspension support member 51B. Meanwhile, the rear portion of the right-side mounting bracket 52B, located at the top and in the middle of the vertical direction, is fixed to the right hinge pillar 70 and the right side of the dash panel 50. Furthermore, the rear portion of the right-side mounting bracket 52B, located at the bottom, is connected to the right side member 60 and the right side of the front side member 13 of the frame 10. This allows the rear portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B to be connected to the front side member 13.

[0099] like Figure 8 As shown, the vertical middle portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A and the vertical middle portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B are connected by a lower connecting member 105 extending in the left-right direction. Figure 6 As shown, a reinforcing member 106 is also provided for connecting the upper portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A, the lower portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A, the upper portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B, and the lower portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B.

[0100] like Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , a left side crash box 53A is mounted on the front portion of the front wheel suspension support member 51A, which is the left side vehicle body member, and extends forward. Furthermore, a right side crash box 53B is mounted on the front portion of the front wheel suspension support member 51B, which is the right side vehicle body member, and extends forward. A bumper reinforcement 140 is mounted on the front portion of the left side crash box 53A and the front portion of the right side crash box 53B, extending in the left-right direction.

[0101] like Figure 3As shown, the upper structure 3 includes a left front frame 54A and a right front frame 54B. Specifically, the left front frame 54A connects the front portion of the center frame 80 (described later) to the left front wheel suspension support member 51A, and the right front frame 54B connects the front portion of the center frame 80 to the right front wheel suspension support member 51B, located forward of the dash panel 50. The left front frame 54A is tilted so that it is positioned more leftward as it approaches the front. The right front frame 54B is tilted so that it is positioned more rightward as it approaches the front. By connecting the left and right front wheel suspension support members 51A and 51B to the front portion of the center frame 80, respectively, the rigidity of the front wheel suspension support members 51A and 51B is increased, thereby improving the vehicle's handling stability. Furthermore, the rigidity of the vehicle's front side, including the area surrounding the expanded dash panel 50, is also enhanced.

[0102] The upper structure 3 includes a left rear side frame 112A extending in the longitudinal direction behind and to the left of the rear portion of the passenger space side floor panel 41 , and a right rear side frame 112B extending in the longitudinal direction behind and to the right of the rear portion of the passenger space side floor panel 41 .

[0103] A suspension device (rear suspension device) SP3 ( Figure 3 The left rear wheel suspension support member 110A is supported by the upper structure 3 and is further provided with a suspension device (rear suspension device) SP4 ( Figure 4 The right rear wheel suspension support member 110B is supported by the rear wheel suspension support member 110B (indicated by a dotted line in the figure).

[0104] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the passenger space side floor panel 41 has a front cross member 44A and a center cross member 44B. The front cross member 44A and the center cross member 44B extend in the left-right direction and are fixed to the upper surface of the passenger space side floor panel 41.

[0105] The front cross member 44A is disposed in front of the passenger space-side floor panel 41. The front portion of the front cross member 44A is also joined to the lower portion of the dash panel 50. The middle cross member 44B is disposed behind the front cross member 44A and forward of the recessed portion 41a. The middle cross member 44B and the passenger space-side floor panel 41 form a closed cross section.

[0106] like Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the upper structure 3 includes a center frame 80 extending continuously in the front-to-rear direction from the dash panel 50 to the connecting panel 43. The center frame 80 is located in the left-right center portion, and its rear portion is connected to the connecting panel 43. The center frame 80 is disposed upwardly, separated from the passenger space-side floor panel 41, in the left-right center portion of the passenger space R1. The distance between the lower surface of the center frame 80 and the upper surface of the passenger space-side floor panel 41 at the greatest distance can be set to, for example, 10 cm or more or 20 cm or more. The left front seat FS and rear seat RS are disposed to the left of the center frame 80, while the right front seat FS and rear seat RS are disposed to the right of the center frame 80.

[0107] By separating the center frame 80 from the passenger space side floor panel 41 and disposing it upward, components, for example, can be placed between the lower surface of the center frame 80 and the upper surface of the passenger space side floor panel 41. Furthermore, the space between the lower surface of the center frame 80 and the upper surface of the passenger space side floor panel 41 can be used as an item storage area.

[0108] The center frame 80 includes a front side frame member 81 extending in the front-to-back direction, a rear side frame member 82 disposed behind the front side frame member 81 and extending rearward, and a connecting member 83 connecting the rear portion of the front side frame member 81 to the front portion of the rear side frame member 82. The front side frame member 81 and the rear side frame member 82 are hollow, that is, cylindrical, extending in the front-to-back direction and can be constructed, for example, from extruded parts. By making the front side frame member 81 and the rear side frame member 82 hollow, a lightweight and highly rigid member can be achieved. Furthermore, the center frame 80 is not limited to a two-part structure consisting of the front side frame member 81 and the rear side frame member 82; it can be constructed from a single member from front to rear or a three-part structure. When constructed from a single member, the connecting member 83 can be omitted.

[0109] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the center frame 80 includes a left-side frame member 84A and a right-side frame member 84B that form the front portion of the center frame 80. This gives the front portion of the center frame 80 a bifurcated shape. The left-side frame member 84A and the right-side frame member 84B are spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. The rear portion of the left-side frame member 84A is fixed to the left side of the middle portion of the front-to-back direction of the front-side frame member 81. When viewed from above, the left-side frame member 84A is inclined so that it becomes more leftward as it moves forward from the fixed portion on the front-side frame member 81. The front portion of the left-side frame member 84A is connected to a portion of the dash panel 50 that is separated upward from the passenger compartment floor panel 41. The rear portion of the left front frame 54A is connected to the front portion of the left-side frame member 84A.

[0110] Furthermore, the rear portion of the right side frame member 84B is fixed to the right side of the middle portion of the front side frame member 81 in the front-to-back direction. When viewed from above, the right side frame member 84B is inclined so that it becomes more rightward as it approaches the front side from the portion fixed to the front side frame member 81. The front portion of the right side frame member 84B is connected to a portion of the dash panel 50 that is separated upward from the passenger compartment-side floor panel 41. The rear portion of the right front frame 54B is connected to the front portion of the right side frame member 84B.

[0111] The upper structure 3 includes a first fixing member 101, a second fixing member 102, and a third fixing member 103 for fixing the center frame 80 to the passenger space-side floor panel 41. The first fixing member 101 is disposed at the frontmost position in the passenger space R1 and is spaced rearward from the dash panel 50. The second fixing member 102 is spaced rearward from the first fixing member 101. Furthermore, the third fixing member 103 is spaced rearward from the second fixing member 102.

[0112] like Figure 11 As shown, the first fixed member 101 includes a left member 101A and a right member 101B. The lower portions of the left and right members 101A, 101B are fixed to the front cross member 44A. The left member 101A extends obliquely upward from the front cross member 44A, becoming increasingly leftward as it approaches the upper side. The upper portion of the left member 101A is fixed to the front portion of the left side frame component 84A of the center frame 80.

[0113] The right side member 101B extends obliquely upward from the front cross member 44A to the right as viewed from the front.

[0114] (Detailed structure of the front bumper and bumper reinforcement)

[0115] like Figure 8 As shown, the bumper reinforcement 140 provided at the front of the vehicle body structure A extends from the front of the left crush box 53A to the front of the right crush box 53B. The left side of the bumper reinforcement 140 is fixed to the front of the left crush box 53A, and the right side of the bumper reinforcement 140 is fixed to the front of the right crush box 53B. Thus, the left side of the bumper reinforcement 140 is supported by the left crush box 53A, the right side of the bumper reinforcement 140 is supported by the right crush box 53B, and the left crush box 53A and the right crush box 53B are connected by the bumper reinforcement 140. The center portion of the bumper reinforcement 140 in the left-right direction is located at the front, and it is curved in such a way that it is located further to the left and right from there. The bumper reinforcement 140 is composed of, for example, an extruded part. As Figure 7As shown, ribs 140a extending in the left-right direction and the front-rear direction are provided inside the bumper reinforcement 140. In addition, the bumper reinforcement 140 may also extend linearly in the left-right direction.

[0116] The left side portion of the bumper reinforcement 140 is configured so as not to protrude significantly to the left from the front portion of the left crush box 53A. In addition, the right side portion of the bumper reinforcement 140 is configured so as not to protrude significantly to the right from the front portion of the right crush box 53B. Figure 7 As shown, a notch 53e is formed at the front of the right crush box 53B, which is open to the front. Figure 2 As shown, a notch 53f open to the front is formed in the front portion of the left crush box 53A. The shapes of the notches 53e and 53f correspond to the outer shape of the bumper reinforcement 140. The right side of the bumper reinforcement 140 is fitted into the notch 53e of the right crush box 53B and secured by welding, etc., while the left side of the bumper reinforcement 140 is fitted into the notch 53f of the left crush box 53A and secured by welding, etc. The fixing structure of the bumper reinforcement 140 is not limited to this. For example, a fixing structure using fastening members such as bolts, nuts, and rivets may also be used.

[0117] like Figure 10 As shown, a front bumper 150 provided at the front of the vehicle 1 includes a resin bumper fascia 151, a decorative member 152, and a front grille 153, all serving as exterior components of the vehicle 1. The bumper fascia 151 extends from the left end to the right end of the vehicle body, for example, to cover the bumper reinforcement 140. The bumper fascia 151 is attached to, for example, an upper cross member 160 (described later), and is easily deformable in the event of a collision, for example, with a pedestrian.

[0118] An opening 151a is formed in the left-right center of the upper portion of the bumper fascia 151, for example, to allow cooling air in. Opening 151a is elongated in the left-right direction, but is not limited thereto and may also be elongated in the vertical direction. A resin front grille 153 is attached to the bumper fascia 151 to cover the opening 151a. The bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned rearward of the front grille 153. This allows the front grille 153 to easily retract in the event of a collision, such as with a pedestrian.

[0119] A decorative member 152 is also attached to the bumper fascia 151. The decorative member 152 is used to decorate the front surface of the vehicle 1. For example, it may be plated or colored to match or differ from the vehicle body color. In this embodiment, the decorative member 152 is positioned facing the front surface of the vehicle and along the periphery of the opening 151a of the bumper fascia 151. The decorative member 152 may also be attached to the front grille 153.

[0120] The decorative member 152 includes a lower portion 152a extending horizontally along the lower edge of the opening 151a, a left portion 152b extending diagonally upward from the left end of the lower portion 152a, and a right portion 152c extending diagonally upward from the right end of the lower portion 152a. The left portion 152b extends along the left edge of the opening 151a of the bumper fascia 151. Furthermore, the right portion 152c extends along the right edge of the opening 151a of the bumper fascia 151.

[0121] The shape of the decorative member 152 is not limited to the aforementioned shape. It may be formed of a left portion 152b and a right portion 152c without the lower portion 152a, or it may have an upper portion (not shown) extending in the left-right direction along the upper edge of the opening 151a. In the case of having an upper portion, the decorative member becomes a frame-shaped decorative member. In addition, the left portion 152b and the right portion 152c may be tilted or not tilted relative to the vertical line when viewed from the front. In addition, the left portion 152b and the right portion 152c may have a bent or curved shape when viewed from the front. The vertical dimensions of the left portion 152b and the right portion 152c may be appropriately set according to the shape and size of the opening 151a. In this example, the left portion 152b and the right portion 152c are tilted so that they are separated as they move upward, but this is not limiting. The left portion 152b and the right portion 152c may also be parallel, or they may be tilted so that they move closer to each other as they move upward. If the vertical dimension of the opening 151 a is long, the vertical dimension of the decorative member 152 can be correspondingly long.

[0122] The decorative member 152 includes a left protrusion 152d that protrudes leftward from the left portion 152b and a right protrusion 152e that protrudes rightward from the right portion 152c. The left protrusion 152d is formed so as to be positioned more rearward as it approaches the left side, extending along the lower portion of the left headlamp L. Furthermore, the right protrusion 152e is formed so as to be positioned more rearward as it approaches the right side, extending along the lower portion of the right headlamp L.

[0123] The left side of the left protrusion 152d extends to a position behind the left side of the bumper reinforcement 140. The right side of the right portion 152c extends to a position behind the right side of the bumper reinforcement 140. The left protrusion 152d and the right protrusion 152e may be provided as needed and may be omitted.

[0124] like Figure 1As shown, the front portion of the decorative member 152 protrudes forward from the front portion of the bumper fascia 151. Specifically, the shape of the decorative member 152 is set so that the left-right middle portion of the decorative member 152 is located forward of the left-right middle portion of the bumper fascia 151. In other words, to meet the design requirements of the vehicle, the decorative member 152 is designed to protrude forward from the bumper fascia 151.

[0125] like Figure 10 As shown, in a front view, the left end of the bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned to the right of the left portion 152b of the garnish member 152, and the right end of the bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned to the left of the right portion 152c of the garnish member 152. Specifically, in this embodiment, in a front view, the bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned between the left portion 152b and the right portion 152c of the garnish member 152. The left end of the bumper reinforcement 140 does not overlap with the left portion 152b of the garnish member 152, and the right end of the bumper reinforcement 140 does not overlap with the right portion 152c of the garnish member 152. In other words, the bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned and shaped so that it is located inward of the opening 151a of the bumper garnish 151 in a front view. For example, the bumper reinforcement 140 can be configured so that the left-right dimension of the bumper reinforcement 140 is smaller than the left-right separation dimension of the left portion 152b and the right portion 152c, and the left-right center portion of the bumper reinforcement 140 is consistent with the left-right center portion of the opening portion 151a.

[0126] Therefore, for example, when an obstacle collides with the front bumper 150 from the front and the decorative member 152 attempts to retreat, the decorative member 152 is less likely to interfere with the bumper reinforcement 140, and the bumper reinforcement 140 is less likely to hinder the retreat of the decorative member 152. This can reduce the impact on the obstacle and, in particular, improve pedestrian protection performance.

[0127] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left crush box 53A is located to the right of the left portion 152b of the garnish 152, and the right crush box 53B is located to the left of the right portion 152c of the garnish 152. Specifically, the left and right crush boxes 53A and 53B are positioned and shaped so that, when viewed from the front, they are located inward of the opening 151a of the bumper garnish 151. Consequently, if, for example, an obstacle collides with the front bumper 150 from the front and the garnish 152 attempts to retreat, the garnish 152 is less likely to interfere with the left and right crush boxes 53A and 53B, thereby preventing the garnish 152 from retracting.

[0128] Furthermore, the lower end of the bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned above the lower portion 152a of the decorative member 152. Consequently, the decorative member 152 is less likely to interfere with the bumper reinforcement 140. Furthermore, the lower ends of the left and right crush boxes 53A, 53B are positioned above the lower portion 152a of the decorative member 152. If the decorative member 152 has an upper portion (not shown), the upper end of the bumper reinforcement 140 can be positioned below the upper portion of the decorative member 152, and the upper ends of the left and right crush boxes 53A, 53B can be positioned below the upper portion of the decorative member 152.

[0129] (crossbeam at the front of the vehicle body)

[0130] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the front portion of the vehicle body front structure A is provided with an upper cross member 160 positioned above the bumper reinforcement 140, and a lower cross member 161 positioned below the bumper reinforcement 140. The upper cross member 160 and the lower cross member 161 extend in the left-right direction, and the longitudinal cross sections of the two cross members 160 and 161, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, are smaller than the cross section of the bumper reinforcement 140 in the same direction. The left-right center of the upper cross member 160 and the lower cross member 161 is located forward, and the cross members curve toward the rear as they move to the left and right. The upper cross member 160 and the lower cross member 161 are constructed, for example, from extruded parts.

[0131] A left upper support member 162 extending forward is provided on the upper portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A, and a right upper support member 163 extending forward is provided on the upper portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B. The left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163 are upper impact-absorbing members that support both sides of the upper cross member 160 in the vehicle width direction and absorb front-to-back impact loads. When a front-to-back impact load is applied to the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163, they compress and deform to absorb the impact load. The left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163 may also have portions that trigger compression and buckling.

[0132] The left upper support member 162 is inclined relative to the vehicle's front-to-back centerline so that it is positioned further to the left as it approaches the front. The right upper support member 163 is inclined relative to the vehicle's front-to-back centerline so that it is positioned further to the right as it approaches the front. Consequently, the left and right upper support members 162, 163 are positioned further outward in the vehicle width direction as they approach the front. Consequently, the distance between the left and right upper support members 162, 163 increases as they approach the front. The front sides of the left and right upper support members 162, 163 are located further outward in the vehicle width direction than the left and right ends of the bumper reinforcement 140, respectively. Furthermore, the front sides of the left and right upper support members 162, 163 are located further outward in the vehicle width direction than the front sides of the left and right crush boxes 53A, 53B, respectively. Alternatively, the left and right upper support members 162, 163 may extend parallel to the vehicle's front-to-back centerline.

[0133] The left side of upper cross member 160 is fixed to the front portion of left upper support member 162, and the right side of upper cross member 160 is fixed to the front portion of right upper support member 163. Thus, the front portions of left upper support member 162 and right upper support member 163 are connected via upper cross member 160.

[0134] The left side of the upper cross member 160 extends further to the left than the front portion of the left upper support member 162, and the right side of the upper cross member 160 extends further to the right than the front portion of the right upper support member 163. Therefore, the left-right dimension of the upper cross member 160 is longer than the left-right dimension of the bumper reinforcement 140. The left side of the upper cross member 160 extends to the vehicle widthwise outer side of the left side of the bumper reinforcement 140, and the right side of the upper cross member 160 extends to the vehicle widthwise outer side of the right side of the bumper reinforcement 140.

[0135] The height of the upper cross member 160 can be arbitrarily set based on the installation heights of the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163. In this embodiment, the installation heights of the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163 are set so that the upper cross member 160 is positioned above the decorative member 152. Furthermore, the front-to-back position of the upper cross member 160 can be arbitrarily set based on the front-to-back dimensions of the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163. In this embodiment, the front-to-back dimensions of the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163 are set so that the bumper reinforcement 140 is positioned forward of the upper cross member 160.

[0136] The portion of the upper cross member 160 to the left of the left upper support member 162 is connected to the left crush box 53A via a left connecting member 166. Furthermore, the portion of the upper cross member 160 to the right of the right upper support member 163 is connected to the right crush box 53B via a right connecting member 167. The left headlamp L is secured to the vehicle widthwise outer side of the left connecting member 166, while the right headlamp L is secured to the vehicle widthwise outer side of the right connecting member 167. The left and right connecting members 166 and 167 are located rearward of the bumper reinforcement 140.

[0137] Furthermore, a left lower support member 164 extending forward is provided at the lower portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A, and a right lower support member 165 extending forward is provided at the lower portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B. Left lower support member 164 and right lower support member 165 are lower impact absorbing members that support both sides of lower cross member 161 in the vehicle width direction and absorb impact loads in the front-rear direction. Left lower support member 164 and right lower support member 165 can be constructed similarly to left upper support member 162 and right upper support member 163.

[0138] The left lower support member 164 is inclined relative to the vehicle's front-to-back centerline, becoming more leftward as it approaches the front. The right lower support member 165 is inclined relative to the vehicle's front-to-back centerline, becoming more rightward as it approaches the front. Consequently, the left and right lower support members 164, 165 are positioned further outward in the vehicle width direction as they approach the front. Consequently, the distance between the left and right lower support members 164, 165 increases as they approach the front. The front sides of the left and right lower support members 164, 165 are located further outward in the vehicle width direction than the left and right ends of the bumper reinforcement 140, respectively. Furthermore, the front sides of the left and right lower support members 164, 165 are located further outward in the vehicle width direction than the front sides of the left and right crush boxes 53A, 53B, respectively. Alternatively, the left and right lower support members 164, 165 may extend parallel to the vehicle's front-to-back centerline.

[0139] The left side of the lower cross member 161 is fixed to the front portion of the left lower support member 164, and the right side of the lower cross member 161 is fixed to the front portion of the right lower support member 165. As a result, the front portions of the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165 are connected via the lower cross member 161.

[0140] The left side of the lower cross member 161 extends further to the left than the front portion of the left lower support member 164, and the right side of the lower cross member 161 extends further to the right than the front portion of the right lower support member 165. Therefore, the left-right dimension of the lower cross member 161 is longer than the left-right dimension of the bumper reinforcement 140. The left side of the lower cross member 161 extends to the vehicle width direction outer side of the left side of the bumper reinforcement 140, and the right side of the lower cross member 161 extends to the vehicle width direction outer side of the right side of the bumper reinforcement 140.

[0141] The height of the lower cross member 161 can be arbitrarily set based on the installation heights of the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165. In this embodiment, the installation heights of the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165 are set so that the lower cross member 161 is positioned below the decorative member 152. Furthermore, the front-to-back position of the lower cross member 161 can be arbitrarily set based on the front-to-back dimensions of the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165. In this embodiment, the front-to-back dimensions of the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165 are set so that the front portion of the left-to-right center portion of the lower cross member 161 is positioned forward of the front portion of the left-to-right center portion of the bumper reinforcement 140.

[0142] In this embodiment, the upper cross member 160 and the lower cross member 161 are configured so that neither the upper cross member 160 nor the lower cross member 161 overlaps with the decorative member 152 when viewed from the front. This makes it difficult for the decorative member 152 to interfere with the upper cross member 160 and the lower cross member 161, for example, when an obstacle collides with the front bumper 150 from the front. Consequently, the upper cross member 160 and the lower cross member 161 are less likely to impede the rearward movement of the decorative member 152. This reduces the impact on obstacles and, in particular, improves pedestrian protection. Alternatively, the upper cross member 160 or the lower cross member 161 can be configured so that neither the upper cross member 160 nor the lower cross member 161 overlaps with the decorative member 152 when viewed from the front. In this case, pedestrian protection can also be improved.

[0143] Furthermore, the front portions of the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163 are located outboard of the front portions of the crush boxes 53A and 53B in the vehicle width direction, and the upper cross member 160 extends outboard of the bumper reinforcement 140 in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, in the event of an offset collision, for example, the impact load can be absorbed by the left upper support member 162, the right upper support member 163, and the upper cross member 160. Similarly, the front portions of the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165 are located outboard of the front portions of the crush boxes 53A and 53B in the vehicle width direction, and the lower cross member 161 extends outboard of the bumper reinforcement 140 in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, in the event of an offset collision, for example, the impact load can be absorbed by the left lower support member 164, the right lower support member 165, and the lower cross member 161. An offset collision is a collision in which an obstacle collides with a predetermined area on only the left or right side of the vehicle.

[0144] like Figure 12 As shown, the vehicle body front structure A includes a rear connecting portion 164A that connects the rear side of the left lower support member 164 to the lower portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A. Rear connecting portion 164A includes a main plate portion 164a positioned between the rear side of the left lower support member 164 and the lower portion of the front wheel suspension support member 51A, and a reinforcing plate portion (reinforcing portion) 164b formed along the right side wall of the left lower support member 164. The main plate portion 164a and the reinforcing plate portion 164b can be formed, for example, by press-forming a plate material.

[0145] The main plate portion 164a is formed to extend vertically and horizontally along the lower portion of the front wheel suspension support member 51A and is secured to the front wheel suspension support member 51A, for example, by fastening members. The vertical dimension of the main plate portion 164a is set to be longer than the vertical dimension of the left lower support member 164. The rear side of the left lower support member 164 is secured to the vertical center portion of the main plate portion 164a, for example, by welding. Although not shown, a reinforcement portion may also be provided along the left sidewall of the left lower support member 164.

[0146] The reinforcement plate portion 164b protrudes forward from the right edge of the main plate portion 164a and extends in the vertical direction. The reinforcement plate portion 164b may or may not be joined to the right side wall of the left lower support member 164. The provision of the reinforcement plate portion 164b suppresses the left lower support member 164 from tipping over in the vehicle width direction under an impact load, thereby allowing the left lower support member 164 to deform as desired, further enhancing the impact absorption effect.

[0147] In addition, if Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, a rear connecting portion 165A may be provided to connect the rear side of the right lower support member 165 to the lower portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B. This rear connecting portion 165B may be configured similarly to the rear connecting portion 164A. Furthermore, although not shown, a rear connecting portion may be provided to connect the rear side of the left upper support member 162 to the upper portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A. This rear connecting portion may be configured similarly to the rear connecting portion 164A. Furthermore, although not shown, a rear connecting portion may be provided to connect the rear side of the right upper support member 163 to the upper portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B. This rear connecting portion may be configured similarly to the rear connecting portion 164A.

[0148] (Detailed structure of the crush box)

[0149] like Figure 8 As shown, the left-side crush box 53A includes a rear crush box 53a, which is attached to the front portion of the left front wheel suspension support member 51A and extends forward, and a front crush box 53b, which is attached to the front portion of the rear crush box 53a and extends forward. The front portion of the rear crush box 53a is integrated with the rear portion of the front crush box 53b. The rear crush box 53a is configured to be less likely to collapse than the front crush box 53b when subjected to a front-to-back impact load. Specifically, the rear crush box 53a maintains its initial shape before a first predetermined load is applied during a head-on collision of the vehicle 1, and compressively deforms under the first predetermined load. The front crush box 53b maintains its initial shape before a second predetermined load, which is smaller than the first predetermined load, is applied during a head-on collision of the vehicle 1, and compressively deforms under the second predetermined load. The initial shape refers to the shape before the head-on collision, but deformation of a few millimeters, for example, is not a substantial problem and is therefore permissible.

[0150] Therefore, in a light collision, such as a collision with a fixed obstacle at a speed of several kilometers per hour, there may be cases where only the front crush box 53b is crushed and deformed, while the rear crush box 53a is not. This difference in strength between the front crush box 53b and the rear crush box 53a can be achieved by, for example, changing the structure, plate thickness, material, etc.

[0151] Even in a collision classified as a light collision, if the impact load increases and the impact load acting on the front crush box 53b and the rear crush box 53a exceeds the first predetermined load, the front crush box 53b and the rear crush box 53a are crushed and deformed together.

[0152] In addition, like the left crush box 53A, the right crush box 53B includes a rear crush box 53c extending forward from the front portion of the right front wheel suspension support member 51B, and a front crush box 53d extending forward from the front portion of the rear crush box 53c. The deformation initiation loads of the front crush box 53d and the rear crush box 53c are set similarly to those of the front crush box 53b and the rear crush box 53a.

[0153] like Figure 7 As shown, the front portion BFa of the hood BF is located rearward of the front portions of the rear crush boxes 53a and 53c. Specifically, a fixing portion 168 for fixing the hood BF to the upper cross member 160 is provided near the front portion BFa of the hood BF. The fixing portion 168 is provided on the upper cross member 160.

[0154] The fixing portion 168 is configured to switch between a fixed state, in which the hood BF is secured to the upper cross member 160, and a released state, in which the fixed state is released, as is conventionally known. The switching operation of the fixing portion 168 can be performed externally, for example, by operating an operating lever (not shown) located in the passenger space R1 to unlock the fixing portion 168. The user then inserts their hand between the front portion BFa of the hood BF and the upper cross member 160 to operate the fixing portion 168, thereby switching the fixing portion 168 from the fixed state to the released state. The fixing portion 168 can engage with and disengage with, for example, an engaging portion BF1 protruding downward from the front portion BFa of the hood BF.

[0155] During a minor collision of the automobile 1, a rearward impact load acts on the bumper reinforcement 140 via the bumper fascia 151. The impact load acting on the bumper reinforcement 140 acts on the left and right crush boxes 53A, 53B. Since the front crush boxes 53b, 53d are designed to crush and deform under smaller impact loads than the rear crush boxes 53a, 53c, they crush and deform before the rear crush boxes 53a, 53c. Because the impact load is absorbed by the crushing and deformation of the front crush boxes 53b, 53d, the rear crush boxes 53a, 53c may not crush and deform, but may retain their original shape or a shape close to their original shape, depending on the magnitude of the impact load. In this case, since the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF is located rearward of the front portions of the rear crush boxes 53 a and 53 c , the collision load is hardly input to the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF.

[0156] The left and right lower support members 164, 165 supporting the lower cross member 161 extend further forward than the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF. This positions the front portions of the left and right lower support members 164, 165 forward of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF. Consequently, the lower cross member 161 is also positioned forward of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF. This layout allows the left and right lower support members 164, 165 to absorb the impact load during a minor collision, further enhancing the effectiveness of preventing damage to the bonnet BF.

[0157] like Figure 10 As shown, the left side portion BF2 of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF is formed so that it is positioned more rearward as it approaches the left end. The right side portion BF3 of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF is formed so that it is positioned more rearward as it approaches the right end. Furthermore, the middle portion BF4 between the left side portion BF2 and the right side portion BF3 of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF is formed so that it extends in the vehicle width direction. In other words, the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF is formed so that the middle portion BF4 is positioned most forward, and the left side portion BF2 and the right side portion BF3 are positioned more rearward as they move outward in the vehicle width direction.

[0158] The pair of left and right rear crush boxes 53a, 53c are located directly below the center portion BF4 of the bonnet BF. Specifically, as previously described, if, for example, the left and right sides BF2, BF3 of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF are positioned more rearward as they move outward in the vehicle width direction, based on design requirements of the vehicle 1, obstacles are less likely to strike the left and right sides BF2, BF3 of the front portion BFa of the bonnet BF during a minor collision. On the other hand, since the center portion BF4 of the bonnet BF extends in the vehicle width direction, obstacles are more likely to strike this center portion BF4 during a minor collision. In this embodiment, the pair of left and right rear crush boxes 53a, 53c can be positioned corresponding to the center portion BF4 of the bonnet BF, making it less likely that obstacles will strike the center portion BF4 of the bonnet BF during a minor collision.

[0159] Furthermore, the left lower support member 164 and the right lower support member 165 supporting the lower cross member 161, and the left upper support member 162 and the right upper support member 163 supporting the upper cross member 160, are located directly below the middle portion BF4 of the bonnet BF. In other words, the support members 162, 163, 164, and 165 can be arranged so as to correspond to the middle portion BF4 of the bonnet BF. This makes it less likely that obstacles will hit the middle portion BF4 of the bonnet BF during a minor collision.

[0160] (Effects of the embodiment)

[0161] As described above, according to this embodiment, when the vehicle 1 collides, the impact load acts on the front crush boxes 53b, 53d and the rear crush boxes 53a, 53c. In the event of a minor collision, the front crush boxes 53b, 53d compress and deform, while the front portions of the rear crush boxes 53a, 53c remain positioned forward of the front portion of the bonnet BF. Therefore, even if an obstacle moves relatively rearward of the vehicle, it will not strike the front portion of the bonnet BF, thereby minimizing damage to the bonnet BF caused by the collision. Consequently, repair costs can be reduced.

[0162] The above embodiments are merely illustrative in all respects and should not be interpreted as limiting. Furthermore, modifications and variations within the scope of equivalents of the claims are within the scope of the present invention.

[0163] Industrial applicability

[0164] As described above, the vehicle body structure of the present invention can be utilized in, for example, electric vehicles and other vehicles.

Claims

1. A vehicle body structure, which is a vehicle body structure, comprising a hood on the front side of the vehicle, characterized in that: have: a pair of left and right rear crush boxes mounted on the vehicle body side members, extending from the vehicle body side members toward the front of the vehicle, and maintaining an initial shape before a first predetermined load acts upon the vehicle in a collision, and compressively deforming upon the action of the first predetermined load; as well as A pair of left and right front crush boxes extend from the front of the rear crush box toward the front of the vehicle, and are compressively deformed when a second predetermined load smaller than the first predetermined load acts on the vehicle in a collision. The front portion of the hood is located further rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush box. The vehicle body structure further comprises: a lower cross member extending in the vehicle width direction at a position below the front crush box; and The lower impact absorbing member supports both sides of the lower cross member in the vehicle width direction and absorbs the impact load in the front-rear direction of the vehicle. The lower impact absorbing member extends further toward the front of the vehicle than the front portion of the hood.

2. The vehicle body structure according to claim 1, wherein: The vehicle body side member is a suspension support member that supports the front suspension device. The rear portion of the rear crush box is mounted on the front portion of the suspension support member.

3. The vehicle body structure according to claim 1, wherein: An upper cross member is further provided, the upper cross member extending in the vehicle width direction at a position farther rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush box and upward from the rear crush box. The upper cross member is provided with a fixing portion for fixing the front portion of the hood.

4. The vehicle body structure according to claim 2, wherein: An upper cross member is further provided, the upper cross member extending in the vehicle width direction at a position farther rearward of the vehicle than the front portion of the rear crush box and upward from the rear crush box. The upper cross member is provided with a fixing portion for fixing the front portion of the hood.

5. The vehicle body structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A bumper reinforcement extending in the vehicle width direction is installed at the front of the front crush box. The left side portion of the front portion of the hood is formed so as to be located further rearward of the vehicle as it approaches the left end. The right side of the front portion of the hood is formed so as to be located further rearward of the vehicle as it approaches the right end. The middle portion between the left side portion and the right side portion of the front portion of the hood is formed to extend in the vehicle width direction. The rear crush box is located directly below the middle portion of the hood.

6. The vehicle body structure according to claim 5, characterized in that: Also features: a cross member disposed vertically apart from the front crush box and extending in the vehicle width direction; and The impact absorbing member supports both sides of the cross member in the vehicle width direction and absorbs the impact load in the front-rear direction of the vehicle. The impact absorbing member is located directly below the middle portion of the hood.

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