Abstract: A frame is disclosed for a vehicle having a vehicle body, a vehicle suspension, and a power-plant configured to generate torque and an exhaust gas stream. The frame includes a tubular frame rail in fluid communication with the power-plant, wherein the rail is defined by a fully-closed cross-section that provides a fluid passage. The frame rail is configured to support the vehicle body and the vehicle suspension. The fluid passage is configured to channel the exhaust gas stream through the frame rail and away from the vehicle body. A vehicle employing such a frame is also disclosed.

Abstract: A frame is disclosed for a vehicle having a vehicle body, a vehicle suspension, and a power-plant configured to generate torque and an exhaust gas stream. The frame includes a tubular frame rail in fluid communication with the power-plant, wherein the rail is defined by a fully-closed cross-section that provides a fluid passage. The frame rail is configured to support the vehicle body and the vehicle suspension. The fluid passage is configured to channel the exhaust gas stream through the frame rail and away from the vehicle body. A vehicle employing such a frame is also disclosed.

Abstract: A tire assembly includes an acoustic foam core disposed within a cavity of the tire for attenuating noise. The foam core defines an expanding radial force that biases the foam core against an inner surface of the tire to secure a position of the foam core relative to the tire. The foam core may include an annular base having a plurality of nodules disposed on an outer periphery of the annular base for engaging the inner surface of the tire and to position the annular base away from the inner surface of the tire. The foam core may further include a plurality of positioning tabs disposed on opposing axial ends of the annular base for engaging side walls of the tire to position the annular base away from the side walls of the tire.