Abstract: A plastic panel suitable for use in an automotive vehicle or other structure is provided wherein the plastic panel includes a polycarbonate substrate, a PMMA layer and a scratch resistant coating. The polycarbonate substrate may have a thickness approximately between 2.0 mm and approximately 6.0 mm. The PMMA layer may be disposed onto the polycarbonate substrate and the PMMA layer may have a thickness approximately between 0.25 mm and approximately 3.0 mm. The scratch resistant coating is applied to both the PMMA layer and the PC substrate.

Abstract: An air dam is provided which includes an upper portion, an intermediate portion and a flexible lower portion. The upper portion is affixed to the underside of a vehicle. The intermediate portion is integral to the upper portion. The flexible lower portion is affixed to the upper portion. The intermediate portion of the air dam is operatively configured to structurally support the flexible intermediate portion.

Abstract: An energy absorber for a vehicle bumper system includes a plurality of crush boxes that are configured to absorb impact energy. Each of the plurality of crush boxes are generally hollow and have a front wall and a plurality of side walls integrally formed with and extending from the front wall to a rear of the energy absorber. A first crush box is separated from a second crush box by a distance such that an open space is defined between a side wall of the first crush box and a side wall of the second crush box. At least one rib extends between the side wall of the first crush box and the side wall of the second crush box in the open space to couple the first crush box to the second crush box. The at least one rib is integrally formed with the first crush box and the second crush box, and extends at least partially between the rear of the energy absorber and the front walls of the first and second crush boxes.

Abstract: A bumper cover is fastened onto an automobile having a polymeric bumper. The bumper cover has a generally navicular concave shell made of thin wall steel having a chrome plated outer surface, the bumper cover having a shape that conforms to the exterior of the polymeric bumper so that it mates with and overlaps the polymeric bumper.

Abstract: A vehicle running board has an elongated two-piece deck assembly attached to a vehicle frame by means of a plurality of longitudinally spaced brackets connected between the underside of the deck and the vehicle frame. The deck assembly includes a metal running board platform and an overlying step pad formed of plastic and having a number of integrally molded resilient tabs for effectuating a snap fit engagement with the platform. Vinyl end caps are mounted to opposite ends of the deck assembly by a pin and post connector to provide a rigid connection capable of withstanding excessive use yet capable of accommodating thermal expansion and contraction of the running board components.