Abstract: A connecting element for insertion into the ends of at least two hollow sections of different cross-section, in particular in the case of a middle node for an instrument panel transverse beam in automobile manufacture is such that a push-fit body is shape-formed—by way of extrusion of a light weight alloy, plastic or other extrudable material—on a frame with side walls extending in the direction of insertion, the push-fit body is of smaller cross-section than the frame and contains lengths of the frame walls. That frame preferably surrounds the push-fit body which in turn forms a corner of the frame. In addition, the frame may exhibit an integral frame bracket outside one frame side wall whereby the frame bracket walls are aligned with parallel frame walls.

Abstract: A connecting element for insertion into the ends of at least two hollow sections of different cross-section, in particular in the case of a middle node (20) for an instrument panel transverse beam in automobile manufacture is such that a push-fit body (22) is shape-formed—by way of extrusion of a light weight alloy, plastic or other extrudable material—on a frame (30) with side walls (32) extending in the direction of insertion, whereby the push-fit body is of smaller cross-section than the frame and contains lengths of the frame walls (32). That frame (30) preferably surrounds the push-fit body (22) which in turn forms a corner (31) of the frame (22). In addition, the frame (30) may exhibit an integral frame bracket outside one frame side wall whereby the frame bracket walls are aligned with parallel frame walls.