Idiot hits truck

Electrical/Mechanical Engineer. Try again. And you’re right, it does take into account those factors. Ever taken mat sci? A more rigid metal will transfer force more readily to whatever it’s in contact with. In engineering terms, we’d call that having a higher spring constant (k).

In the Tesla, the k value is quite high, so being in contact with that door would result in a transfer of however much momentum was coming at you, directly TO you.

In the Volvo, the momentum is dispersed more evenly through the door. The Volvo’s frame has a higher damping constant (c) than the Tesla. It can absorb more force before hitting the passenger. Add to that the breakaway console, and you effectively shift all remaining momentum through you to the other side of the car.

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