Abstract: The invention relates to a support structure for vehicles, made from a longitudinal member (1) comprising at least two interconnected hollow sections (10, 11). One of the hollow sections continues in the direction of the bumper (5). In the case of a crash with low-speed impact, there is a targeted deformation of the single hollow section (10c), which makes it possible to carry out repairs economically. In the case of a higher-speed impact, the more rigid support structure of the double hollow section for protecting passengers comes into play. Since in this design the impact absorber, which is usually arranged between the longitudinal member and the bumper, can be done without, there is also a reduction in the number of components required, and thus in the overall weight.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support structure for vehicles, made from a longitudinal member (1) comprising at least two interconnected hollow sections (10, 11). One of the hollow sections continues in the direction of the bumper (5). In the case of a crash with low-speed impact, there is a targeted deformation of the single hollow section (10c) which makes it possible to carry out repairs economically. In the case of a higher-speed impact, the more rigid support structure of the double hollow section for protecting passengers comes into play. Since in this design the impact absorber, which is usually arranged between the longitudinal member and the bumper, can be done without, there is also a reduction in the number of components required, and thus in the overall weight.

Abstract: The invention relates to a longitudinal girder used as part of a load bearing structure of a motor vehicle. In order to optimize the flexural strength, load bearing capacity and crash behavior of a longitudinal girder within a given construction area, the inventive longitudinal girder consists of two hollow profiles (1a, 1b, 2a, 2b) which are disposed at a height/width ratio of approximately 1 and which are connected to each other on both ends thereof (5, 6, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b) in a dimensionally stable manner.