This article presents the experimental–numerical analysis carried out in order to achieve a new automotive component, consisting of a C-pillar constituted by sandwich structure made of steel skins and a rigid foam core. The objective was to achieve a lighter component than the corresponding reference configuration, yet fulfilling mechanical requirements related to stiffness and strength. In fact, the new C-pillar should be at least stiffer and stronger than the reference component. In addition, the final price of the new C-pillar should be in the same range as the price of the initial component, which made it impossible to apply expensive materials such as carbon fiber composite materials.
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