Which statement describes the primary purpose of a crumple zone?

Which statement describes the primary purpose of a crumple zone?

• A. To absorb energy and reduce forces on occupants
• B. To protect the engine from damage
• C. To improve fuel economy
• D. To increase vehicle stability during cornering

Answer: (C)

A crumple zone is designed to deform in a controlled way during a crash to absorb energy and reduce the forces occupants feel. By increasing the distance over which the car decelerates, it lowers the peak deceleration, helping protect people inside. It’s not built to shield the engine, improve fuel economy, or boost cornering stability—those functions come from other parts of the vehicle, like the engine design, fuel systems, suspension, and tires.

A crumple zone is designed to deform in a controlled way during a crash to absorb energy and reduce the forces occupants feel. By increasing the distance over which the car decelerates, it lowers the peak deceleration, helping protect people inside. It’s not built to shield the engine, improve fuel economy, or boost cornering stability—those functions come from other parts of the vehicle, like the engine design, fuel systems, suspension, and tires.