Sled tests are dynamic tests used to simulate crash loads on vehicle components, seats, restraint systems and interior structures. Instead of carrying out a full vehicle crash test for every development step, sled testing recreates defined crash pulses under controlled laboratory conditions.
TÜV SÜD’s dynamic component testing, also known as DYCOT, combines physical sled testing with virtual simulation to support non-destructive crash test simulation. This gives manufacturers and suppliers reliable data for design optimisation, regulatory preparation and market access.
Depending on the test scope, sled tests can simulate frontal, rear and side impact scenarios. They are commonly used during product development, type approval preparation and conformity of production testing.
See how TÜV SÜD uses non-destructive dynamic component testing and our state-of-the-art sled test technology to simulate realistic crash conditions for vehicle components, seats and restraint systems.
TÜV SÜD tests a wide range of automotive components, seats, restraint systems and interior structures under defined dynamic load conditions.
Our services include:
Our accredited laboratory performs tests against a wide range of regulations, standards and industry requirements, including UN ECE, FMVSS, ADR, FIA, NCAP, ISO, AMS and EASA CS requirements.
Relevant UN ECE tests include UN ECE R11, R16, R17, R21, R67, R80, R110 and R129.
Whiplash testing helps manufacturers assess how vehicle seats and head restraints perform during rear-impact conditions. These tests are important for developing safer seat systems and reducing the risk of neck injuries in road traffic accidents.
As part of TÜV SÜD’s DYCOT sled testing services, we support dynamic whiplash tests for seat and head-restraint development. The tests can assess seat geometry, head-restraint position, adjustability, locking mechanisms and overall seat integrity under defined rear-impact crash pulses.
Whiplash test results can support product development, safety validation and preparation for consumer safety assessment programmes such as Euro NCAP and other global regulations. Depending on the programme scope, testing may apply to front and rear seats and can help manufacturers improve occupant protection before final vehicle assessment.
For whiplash and rear-impact seat testing, TÜV SÜD can use the BioRID-II dummy model to assess occupant response under defined crash conditions.
BioRID-II is designed to support rear-impact testing and provides a more human-like response of the spine, head and neck during low-speed rear-end collision scenarios. Equipped with sensors, the dummy helps capture data on occupant movement and injury-relevant parameters during impact.
This supports accurate and repeatable whiplash testing for seat and head-restraint development, helping manufacturers evaluate product performance and improve occupant protection.
TÜV SÜD provides a single source of support for dynamic component testing, crash test simulation and whiplash testing. Our technical experts help you plan, set up and carry out sled tests based on your component, vehicle programme, target markets and validation needs.
We can help you:
Our facilities are designed for complex testing programmes, including parallel customer projects where confidentiality and prototype security are critical.
Our IST CSA Advanced Acceleration System supports high-G and low-G crash pulse simulations for a wide range of component and structure tests.
Key capabilities include:
Our ENCOPIM Active Lateral Intrusion Simulation System supports the simulation of side-impact intrusion scenarios.
Key capabilities include:
Our laboratory uses advanced measurement and imaging systems to capture detailed test data.
Capabilities include:
TÜV SÜD’s dynamic component testing laboratory is ISO/IEC 17025 accredited and has passed a TISAX information security audit for handling development prototypes.
The laboratory also includes independent preparation rooms to support customer confidentiality, especially when parallel sled tests are conducted for different customers.
For approval-related projects, TÜV SÜD can also draw on its wider network of accredited, authorised and nominated experts. This includes support linked to recognised approval bodies and authorities in Europe and other key markets, such as KBA, RDW, VCA, NSAI, INMETRO and VSCC, depending on the project scope and target market.
