What are crumple zones and how do they protect occupants in a crash?

Crumple zones are engineered front and rear sections designed to deform progressively in a collision, absorbing kinetic energy through controlled collapse. By extending the deceleration time and distance, they reduce the peak forces transmitted to the occupant compartment. The passenger cell remains rigid while crumple zones collapse in a predictable manner, converting kinetic energy into deformation energy and reducing occupant deceleration below injury thresholds.