Russian Atom electric cars have been prepared for a new stage of testing

This time they will test a body that has already passed virtual crash tests and is now ready for full-scale tests. They will check its rigidity, ability to effectively absorb impact energy, as well as corrosion resistance and the quality of the paintwork.

As you know, the Russian Atom electric car will have a body without a B pillar, which is convenient from a comfort point of view, but at the same time places special demands on structural materials. A calculated, virtual model of the body, which was run through a series of simulations, has already shown the viability of the concept. The next stage is live testing of pre-production bodies, based on the results of which final improvements will be made before launching into production.

Atom Dynamic testing of prototypes of the Russian electric car Atom completed

The Atom’s body will be made from five different metals: strain-hardening steel (PHS), advanced high-strength steel (AHSS), low-alloy steel (HSLA), low-carbon steel (Mild) and aluminum. Each material has different strength and softness parameters, which allows it to effectively absorb impact energy in the event of an accident. The main strength elements of the frame are made using the hot stamping method: these are parts of the floor, front tunnel, sidewalls and safety zones, safety bars, as well as reinforcements in the doors.

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In the event of a side impact, the main load will be taken by the threshold. The beam has a patented design and structure, and its outer part is made in the shape of a trapezoid. The main purpose of the thresholds is to prevent damage to the battery. Taken together, this design preserves space inside the cabin and provides the necessary rigidity.

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Almost all body elements will receive double-sided galvanization. The only exceptions are those parts that do not need it, such as hot stamped parts, chassis, instrument panel cross member and interior parts. To protect the body from corrosion, the technology of applying cataphoretic primer and treating hidden cavities with wax will also be used.

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Of course, the body will be checked for reliability and durability. First, it will be placed in a salt fog chamber for 1,450 hours to simulate 10 years of operation in a large city. Then they will do the same with the already assembled car, but being in the chamber will alternate with races around the training ground. The route will include sections with paving stones and a ford with a water-salt solution 200 millimeters deep. These tests simulate 5 years of vehicle operation in a region with a maritime climate.

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Finally, before the start of mass production in 2025, the Atom will undergo three rounds of crash tests. The first – 6 cars / 12 tests, the second – 15 cars / 21 tests, the third – 9 cars / 15 tests. Their goal is to demonstrate a high level of safety and achieve a result equivalent to four stars in the C-NCAP safety rating.

Look at the interior of the serial Atom electric car