von Braun VB1 chassis is a carbon fiber monoqocue. It is likely the most rigid structure in the world among open supercars.
The man behind - Dr. Peter H. Bull
The monocoque has been calculated and developed by Dr Peter H. Bull, scientist and expert of lightweight structures with composite materials. The challenge for Dr Bull was to optimize a compromise between high torsion stiffness, high strength and low weight.
38 000NM/degree
The most relevant measurement of the torsion rigidity is diagonally between suspension
attachment points, wich are where the power goes into the support structure. Few open sports cars in the world can produce over 15 000 Nm / degree. The torsion rigidity of the chassis VB1 is measured to 25 000 Nm / degree, but the monocoque alone has a total rigidity of 38,000 Nm / which is the value most manufacturers declare as reference. By comparison, the world’s fastest open super car in production today
declares 28,100 Nm / degree for its monocoque. This corresponds to approximately 12 000 Nm / degree of torsional stiffness at the points of attachment where the power going into the bearing structure.
Innovative construction
The fact that the VB1 monocoque likely is the strongest for open sports cars in the world is only one detail. There are several other details at the VB1 Monocoque worth to notice. The rear sidewalls creates a very short distance to the rear subframe with it´s wheels and suspension. This is one of the things making the total stiffnes strong. Another detail is the rear venturi channels that are continuing all the way forward into the bottom of the monocoque layout. The small door openings and the high central tunnel is also important details creating such a strong construction. Together with aluminium inserts at headrests and at other critical sections, the VB1 monocoque is also one of the safest ever built.
The monocoque of the VB1 is not only a engineering masterpiece. The finish and the attention to details is also one part of the promise von Braun delivers. The target of von Braun VB1 is to be the most intelligent tool for advanced driving with a instrumental feeling.
Studio photos taken by, Anders Eskilsson - Gothia Reklamfoto, Borås, Sweden
