parachoques

Parachoques, also known as bumpers, are protective bars or beams located at the front and rear of a vehicle. Their primary function is to absorb impact energy in the event of a low-speed collision, thereby reducing damage to the vehicle's more expensive and critical components, such as the engine, lights, and body panels.

Modern parachoques are typically made from materials that can deform upon impact, such as plastic composites or steel. This deformation is a crucial part of their energy-absorbing design. The design and construction of parachoques have evolved significantly over time, driven by safety regulations and advancements in materials science. Early bumpers were often simple chrome-plated steel bars designed for structural protection, while contemporary designs are integrated into the vehicle's overall aesthetics and often incorporate crumple zones and pedestrian protection features.

In many countries, parachoques are subject to specific regulations regarding their height, width, and ability to withstand certain impact forces. These regulations aim to standardize protection levels and ensure a minimum standard of safety for vehicles. The effectiveness of a parachoques is largely dependent on the speed and angle of the impact. While they are designed to mitigate damage in minor collisions, they are not intended to protect occupants in high-speed accidents, which require more comprehensive safety systems like airbags and seatbelts.