Abstract: A structural component 1 is provided for a vehicle designed for driving off-road on rough terrain. The component 1, such as the lower control arm of a suspension system, is formed from aluminum, aluminum-alloy or other light-weight material and provided on its underside with a parallel arrangement of chamfered ribs 5 which extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle. The spacing between adjacent ribs 5 is less than or equal to 10 mm so as to prevent underlying rocks and stones 7 from impacting, and thereby abrading the inner surface 3 of the component 1. The ribs 5 are provided as sacrificial elements and will become eroded in use until they no longer provide the desired protection of the inner surface 3. The extent of abrasion of the ribs 5 can be ascertained by a visual inspection of the underlying surface of the vehicle, and, if necessary, the component 1 can be replaced.

Abstract: A structural component 1 is provided for a vehicle designed for driving off-road on rough terrain. The component 1, such as the lower control arm of a suspension system, is formed from aluminium, aluminium-alloy or other light-weight material and provided on its underside with a parallel arrangement of chamfered ribs 5 which extend in the direction of travel of the vehicle. The spacing between adjacent ribs 5 is less than or equal to 10 mm so as to prevent underlying rocks and stones 7 from impacting, and thereby abrading the inner surface 3 of the component 1. The ribs 5 are provided as sacrificial elements and will become eroded in use until they no longer provide the desired protection of the inner surface 3. The extent of abrasion of the ribs 5 can be ascertained by a visual inspection of the underlying surface of the vehicle, and, if necessary, the component 1 can be replaced.