Stellantis Opens Dummy Certification Lab In Betim, Brazil

In a monumental stride towards advancing vehicle safety, Stellantis has unveiled its state-of-the-art Dummy Certification Laboratory, located within the Safety Center at the Stellantis Automotive Pole of Betim, Brazil. This pioneering project developed entirely in Brazil in collaboration with a local technology company specializing in data acquisition and test equipment, marks a significant milestone in pursuing excellence in vehicle safety.

The Dummy Certification Laboratory is critical in ensuring the precision and consistency of results in crash tests and impact simulations, aligning seamlessly with global standards for vehicle safety assessments. Each aspect of the anthropomorphic doll (ATD), or dummy, undergoes rigorous testing, guaranteeing its accuracy and reliability in mimicking human responses during various accident scenarios.

Márcio Tonani, Senior Vice President of Stellantis Engineering Technical Centers for South America, emphasizes dummies’ pivotal role in crash tests, stating, “The dummy is a simulator of human body structures and plays an essential role in our crash tests.” With an average of 50 strategically positioned sensors in each dummy, the human body’s responses can be accurately replicated, ensuring vehicles are comprehensively tested for safety across diverse biotypes and age groups.

The Dummies Laboratory (ATD) has been specifically designed to provide certifications for dummies utilized in the most rigorous crash tests in the region. Stellantis adheres to the latest protocols, meeting global requirements and subjecting each dummy to a new certification within a maximum interval of five crash tests. This heralds a significant departure from the previous practice of outsourcing dummy certifications to labs in the United States or Europe, granting Stellantis newfound autonomy and agility in meeting global regulatory standards.

The Safety Center, encompassing an impressive 7,600 square feet and boasting a 130-foot track capable of conducting impact tests of up to 4 tons, is the pinnacle of collision testing centers within Stellantis. This facility sets the stage for front, rear, and side impact tests against rigid and deformable barriers, all performed following international standards. Additionally, the Safety Center conducts physical tests that simulate various scenarios, evaluating the car’s structural integrity and the efficacy of restraint systems such as safety belts and airbags.

The inauguration of the Dummy Certification Laboratory represents a technological triumph and underscores Stellantis’ unwavering dedication to safeguarding lives. By investing in cutting-edge safety measures, Stellantis reinforces its commitment to delivering products that offer unparalleled safety and protection to its customers. The laboratory serves as a testament to the company’s resolve to prioritize the well-being of occupants within its vehicles.