Competitor benchmarking to influence new designs

Case study - SBD carried out a vehicle teardown and assessment of five competitor vehicles in the LCV segment to input into target setting and early design concepts. Studies of the front end structure and materials highlighted design strengths and weaknesses. With a high level of expertise in this area, SBD provided valuable insight into these structures and how to design-in for low speed impact and optimise performance.

Outcome - This activity provided the basis for establishing the targets for low speed impact. Following the activity, the client was able to integrate improved design features into their new model so that the vehicle cost was minimised and class leading damage and reparability was achieved. Ultimately, the new vehicle will provide savings for the end customer on the annual insurance cost and gives the client a highly competitive product.