Abstract: An energy absorption system for vehicle pillars. The energy absorption system includes a cover device attached to a pillar having an outer shell or side visible from the vehicle interior and an inner hidden side supporting a ladder-like structure which includes a spaced walls and spaced ribs integrally attached together. During energy absorption, the side walls absorb energy by bowing outward away from the ribs and occasionally tearing while energy is also absorbed by crushing distortion and tearing of the ribs from their attachment with the walls. Moreover, in an embodiment, at least one flow channel or passage for air is formed within the device laterally to the side of one of the walls. In another embodiment in which a seat belt attachment is utilized, the device forms a track for a slidable retention belt retention member.