The bonnet covers the engine compartment, protecting it against direct damage from atmospheric agents, and is also an integral and distinguishing part of your vehicle's style.
The most commonly used material is steel, which can
be found in all of the parts which make up the bonnet. Depending on the
component, the steel may be high-resistance, to ensure optimum mechanical performance, as well as preventing buckling and denting.
Panel thickness is optimised to reduce vehicle weight: and more recently, aluminium panels have also been used on some models, offering lower CO2 emissions and reduced fuel consumption.
When designing bonnets, particular attention is paid to accidental collisions with pedestrians:
an international standard sets out the type approval of models in line
with specific parameters, to increase safety in the case of an accident
involving a pedestrian, up to certain speed limits.
During the design phase, the controlled crumple and deformation points are fixed,
to prevent the bonnet from moving back towards the windscreen and
injuring the vehicle occupants in the case of a front impact.
Opening the bonnet gives access to the engine compartment for routine maintenance and other interventions: to improve working conditions, the size of the opening is specifically designed in line with ergonomic research. Some models are fitted with gas springs which control the bonnet opening, offering increased comfort for vehicle maintenance personnel.