Abstract: An energy-absorbing element for a vehicle component is provided. The element is formed of a composite material comprising a combination or mixture of mineral fibers, such as glass fibers, and organic fibers, such as polypropylene fibers.

Abstract: A closure panel mounting for a window opening of a vehicle body structure includes a U-shaped three sided recess into which the panel is slidable, with a fourth side of the closure panel engaged by another closure panel included in the vehicle body structure. In a first embodiment the panel is slid vertically down into tracks extending along the recess, and a top panel has an edge engaging the fourth side of the panel. In a second embodiment, the recess tracks extend horizontally and the panel is slid into the recess from the rear, a vehicle tailgate engaging the end of the panel when swung closed to secure the closure panel in position.

Abstract: A molded plastic window panel and method for locating and guiding the window panel to a final position in a window opening in an automotive vehicle body structure, with locator guide features molded integrally in a window panel perimeter portion projecting toward corresponding complementary locator guide features on the body structures. The perimeter portion may be molded as an outer piece separate from a main transparent section with the locator guide features integral therewith, the outer piece bonded to the main section to form a unitary panel. The outer piece may be molded from an opaque plastic to provide a masking black out border and an adhesive joint used to permanently mount the window panel in the body structure window opening. The locator guide features may comprise resiliently deflectable elements such as fingers or tabs on one part engaging complementary features on the other part to urge the window panel into a properly located position on the body structure.