E70 Body Overview: Notes

The E70 bodyshell has a number of technical highlights. For example, the B-pillar consists of tailor rolled blanks, which are hot formed and enable a high-strength weight saving of 2 kg per vehicle.

This also increases performance in a crash. The torsional strength has been increased from 23,500 Nm/° (E53) to 27,000 Nm/° (E70). The bodyshell played a key role in achieving a rating of 5 stars in the NCAP crash test. Many reinforcements were made to the front end, B-pillar and rear end. This involved using high strength steels.

Fig 1: Body Technical Overview - E70 (1 Of 3)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Body Technical Overview - E70 (2 Of 3)

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Fig 3: Body Technical Overview - E70 (3 Of 3)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The body structure is designed in line with the Euro NCAP front impact test, the Euro NCAP pole test and the LINCAP side impact test as well as the IIHS side impact and high-speed rear impact tests in the USA.

Wherever possible, all situations occurring outside of legal requirements, and intended to ensure the protection of the passengers have been taken into consideration.

In an impact at up to 15 km/h, the body structure remains undamaged. The separating cuts for repair are outside the B-pillar. To prevent corrosion, the sill beam is dried.

At the front end, a sheet metal shell design modeled on the E53 has been used, but with a cast aluminum spring support. The advantages of this construction, in addition to the weight saving of 7-8 kg, include the smaller dimensions and the improved force input through different thicknesses and rib distribution.

In addition, the sheet metal shell design is easier to repair, as individual components can be replaced.

Fig 4: Identifying Aluminum Spring Support

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.