How do electric vehicle body structures differ from conventional vehicles?

EV body structures must address: Battery packaging (typically floor-mounted requiring low floor/high sills), battery crash protection (reinforced rocker panels, front/rear structures preventing intrusion), high torsional stiffness (battery as structural element), different weight distribution (batteries concentrated low/center), no engine bay constraints enabling new crumple zone designs, and high-voltage safety isolation. Opportunities include skateboard platforms, lower center of gravity improving handling, and battery as structural member increasing stiffness. Challenges include higher mass requiring stronger structures and repair complexity.