2.3 Passenger protection:
A) Compared to cars:
Being lighter than cars, this new 3-Wheeler is obviously at a disadvantage in terms of weight, in case of front collisions with any 4-Wheeler. On the other hand, its road holding capabilities and swiftness can offer more active safety than most cars. Moreover, when equipped with backrests, safety belts and a protective structure, this new 3-Wheeler offers certain advantages over small cars:
1) With the long front end, the driver benefits from a longer deceleration distance than in a small car, in case of frontal collision. He may thus come to a stop less brutally.
2) Since the passenger is behind the driver, he benefits from a still longer deceleration distance, for still more protection in case of frontal collision.
3) Since the two passengers sit one behind the other, they constitute a smaller target for incoming cars, than in the case of a small car where they would sit one beside the other. Another car coming to hit them would then have more chances to miss them and rather hit them sideways for less personal injury.
4) Since both passengers are in the centerline of the vehicle, they are thus better protected in case of lateral collisions, than in the case of a small car, where they sit close to the doors.
B) Compared to regular motorcycles:
This new 3-Wheeler must certainly rather be compared to regular motorcycles. In this case, it offers an even greater passenger protection potential:
1) It doesn't fall:
First, it doesn't fall at standstill or while riding, unlike regular motorcycles. The passengers thus do not risk being crushed under it.
2) In case of frontal collision:
It also offers advantages in case of frontal collisions:
- Contrary to the Scorpion, the T-Rex, the Cyclone or the G-Max, the engine does not push the passengers in the back to crush them against the incoming obstacle. Just the opposite, the front end is long and offers more material to be crushed, in order to absorb more energy during collision.
- Furthermore, the driver sits low for more stability in curves and the handlebar can incorporate a cushion or even a safety bag, just like in a car. More energy can thus be absorbed. Also, the odds can be reduced of the driver being ejected forward against any hard object, while breaking his legs against the handlebar.
3) In case of lateral collision:
In lateral collisions, both the front bumper and the front wheels can protect the passengers. Furthermore, side tubes can be added to complete lateral protection and help the rear passenger hold himself if he wishes. So there's no risk of having a leg crushed against the regular motorcycle engine by a car that has not made a stop.
Conclusion:
This 3-Wheeler component layout with two front driving-steering wheels and passengers sitting astride each other offers
a strong passenger protection potential.
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