Abstract: A reinforcement element, for the body of an automobile, consists of an elongated tensile elastic part comprising a cable, which is arranged in a hollow section attached to the body of the automobile. The cable extends through the hollow section and is attached by its ends independently of the hollow section to an attachment point on a part of the body. An impact against the body part causes the hollow section to contact and rest against the cable, such that the cable impedes further displacement of the hollow section with respect to the body. The cable may be a compound cable, each element having different routing, lengths, thicknesses, and/or construction. The mounting includes a tensioning element to prestress the cable, and may include a passive or active damping element.